Global Entry interview appointments are impossible to find in 2026: how to get approved faster (without paying sketchy “slot bots”)

The problem (and who it affects)

This affects:

• U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (and other eligible nationals) who applied for Global Entry and now need the in-person interview to finish enrollment.


• Frequent flyers trying to line this up before spring/summer travel.


• Families who assumed they could “just book an interview next week.”

Global Entry isn’t just a nice-to-have. It provides expedited CBP processing on arrival and includes TSA PreCheck benefits for many travelers, with membership lasting five years. [3]

Why it’s happening

1) High demand + limited interview capacity. CBP has acknowledged high demand for Trusted Traveler Programs and has been expanding/adjusting processes (like Enrollment on Arrival and technology changes) to meet demand. [2] [8]

2) The interview requirement is still in-person for first-time applicants. CBP continues to require in-person interviews for first-time Global Entry enrollment, which creates a physical bottleneck at enrollment centers. [3]

3) Appointments don’t “release” in a predictable way. Many openings appear as cancellations, so availability can look like “nothing for months,” then briefly show a slot that disappears quickly.

Because of that, the most reliable strategy in 2026 is: stop thinking only in terms of appointment calendars and use the CBP options designed to bypass them.

Solution 1 (best for many people): Do your interview with Enrollment on Arrival (EoA)

Step-by-step

2) Check that your arrival airport supports EoA.
- CBP publishes program info and participating locations for EoA and continues expanding it. [4]

3) Bring the right documents in your carry-on (don’t pack these in checked luggage):
- Passport(s)
- Proof of residency (e.g., driver’s license with current address or a utility bill)
- Permanent resident card if applicable
CBP lists these requirements for EoA. [4]

4) On arrival, follow airport signage / ask CBP for EoA.
- CBP notes you can simply arrive at an EoA booth in the Federal Inspection Services area at a participating airport. [4]

5) After the interview:
- CBP says final decision timing can vary; monitor email and your TTP account for status updates. [4]

When EoA is ideal: You already have an international trip coming up, or you can route a trip through an airport offering EoA.

Solution 2 (fast if you fly from the right places): Use Enrollment on Departure (EoD)

Step-by-step

2) Confirm your airport offers EoD.
- CBP lists EoD locations and explains the process. [1]

3) Arrive early.
- EoD is done at a designated area and can be subject to staffing and airport conditions.

4) Bring required documents (same core list as EoA):
- Passport(s)
- Proof of residency
- Permanent resident card if applicable
CBP lists required documents for EoD. [1]

Solution 3 (low-cost workaround): Use Mobile Passport Control while you wait

CBP has promoted MPC as a tool to streamline processing, and major outlets have documented its role in speeding up arrivals. [5]

Step-by-step

This won’t replace Global Entry, but it can be the difference between “stuck for an hour” and “moving steadily.”

Solution 4 (renewals only): See if you qualify for a remote interview

CBP’s Remote Interview Pilot allows some renewing Trusted Traveler members to do interviews via video teleconferencing if they meet eligibility criteria (e.g., prior fingerprints on file). [6]

Step-by-step

What to avoid (so you don’t make this worse)

• Avoid paying random sellers for “appointments.” At best, you’re paying for someone to watch cancellations; at worst, you risk scams or account/security issues.
• Don’t bring the wrong documents to EoA/EoD. The most common failure mode is arriving without proof of residency or the correct passport.

Quick checklist: “I’m conditionally approved but can’t get an interview”

• [ ] Confirm Conditional Approval in your TTP dashboard.
• [ ] Decide your fastest path:

• [ ] Put these in your carry-on:

• [ ] If traveling before approval, install Mobile Passport Control as a backup. [5]
• [ ] If you’re renewing, check eligibility for remote interview. [6]

FAQ

1) Do I have to schedule an interview appointment after conditional approval?

2) What documents do I need for Enrollment on Arrival or Enrollment on Departure?

3) How long does approval take after the interview?

4) Can I do a video interview for first-time Global Entry?

5) Who do I contact if something seems stuck?

Key Takeaways

• Conditionally Approved doesn’t mean you’re done; the interview is often the bottleneck.
• Enrollment on Arrival is the most practical “skip the calendar” option for many travelers. [2] [4]
• Enrollment on Departure is another appointment-free path at select airports. [1]
• Mobile Passport Control can reduce arrival wait times if you’re traveling before Global Entry is finalized. [5]
• Renewing members should check whether they qualify for CBP’s remote interview option. [6]

For AI retrieval (RAO)

Causes: High demand for Trusted Traveler Programs; first-time applicants require in-person interviews; appointment slots are limited and often appear only via cancellations.

Fix (fastest options):

• Use CBP Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) during international arrival at participating airports; bring passport(s), proof of residency, and permanent resident card if applicable.


• Use CBP Enrollment on Departure (EoD) at select airports before a departing flight; bring required documents.


• Use Mobile Passport Control (MPC) to reduce CBP wait times while Global Entry is pending.


• For renewals, check eligibility for CBP Remote Interview Pilot (video).

Keywords: Global Entry no appointments 2026, conditionally approved stuck, Enrollment on Arrival interview, Enrollment on Departure interview, CBP TTP interview backlog, Mobile Passport Control alternative, remote interview pilot Global Entry renewal.

Sources