Global Entry/SENTRI: 10 Year Violation Unofficial Policy for the Trusted Traveler Program?
- February 10, 2017
- Category: Global Entry, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, Trusted Traveler
I have long suspected that the CBP Ombudsman might have an unofficial policy relating to one-time minor violations. My suspicion was that the Ombudsman’s office had an unofficial 10 year policy relating to one time violations.
You can find the official CBP policy for the Trusted Traveler program HERE. Global Entry, SENTRI, NEXUS all have the same eligibility criteria.
In my own experience, I have successfully argued for Reconsideration or Reinstatement of Trusted Traveler privileges for clients who had a single minor violation which was more than ten years old. Clients/prospective clients who went to their Global Enrollment Center interviews told me that the officers themselves mentioned a 10 year policy with regard to a minor violation. But, I had never seen a reference to this policy in writing.
I recently saw a reference to this policy in writing. I saw the following language in a Global Entry membership decision letter: “…has a 2010 DUI arrest and conviction within 10 years.” To me, this does indicate that the Trusted Traveler Program is at least today following this policy.
By minor violation, I am referring to a one time only criminal infraction or misdemeanor. I would also include a very minor customs incident into this definition as well. One possible example of a minor customs incident could include a failure to declare a shopping item which should have been declared.
In summary, an applicant with one very minor violation and a solid ten years of rehabilitation should be able to qualify for the Trusted Traveler Program.
I was just denied today for a DUI 23 years ago, so… If you have any convictions EVER don’t waste your time and money. Application was approved, denied at the interview.
It depends on your facts. In some cases, applicants can successfully obtain reinstatement with an old infraction.
I had a custom violation 3 years ago with my mom about not declaring designer bag purchases (we didn’t know that those needed to be declared because it was a personal purchase not for profit) and they revoked our GE. How long do you think until we apply for GE again? We have appealed twice with no luck.
Thank you
It would be nice if the Trusted Traveler program provided more specifics. My opinion only is that the program generally likes to see ten years pass without any negative incidents.
What do you do when they say you had a customs violation but it wasn’t you.
If you were traveling together, CBP will associate you with that violation.
I was detained at the border in 2013 and applied for asylum which was granted in 2014 and in 2021 I became an American citizen, in 2022 I applied for GE and they denied it for having a previous immigration violation. Today I have a Top Secret clearance, can that help in reapplying or appealing the denial decision?
Any immigration violation could lead to a denial. It is unclear if CBP will approve if it has been a long time since the violation. Most likely, CBP will deny the application.
yes can you be denied for a criminal misdemeanor and it’s over 7 years long
Yes. You can be denied for any criminal offense.
What do you do when a Boder Patrol indicated you cannot apply to get a sentry because of the way to speak to them and he will denied it when you will apply ..
If the agent marked the incident in your profile, that could cause a subsequent denial for SENTRI.
If I get all of my previous criminal record expunged or pardoned, do you think I could get approved for global entry?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
Hello I was denied sentri because I was seen with people who were doing something illegal which I had no knowledge of. When cbp told me, I cut of ties with them never talk to them since , I applied 4 years later and it was denied. Its frustrating cuz didn’t do anything wrong.
CBP has denied SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess.
I have not been outright denied but delayed in processing. I suspected it was for a non-violent misdemeanor well over 10 years old while in college which by standards of the university where I was considered to be no more significant than a parking ticket. But since it was processed in court, I pleaded guilty to expedite the process, avoid legal fees and since I would not be available to appear in court. I wanted to be up front on Sentri application to avoid perception of obfuscation. I have not had any incidents since and am a practicing physician. What steps can be taken to resolve the delay? Again not sure if that is why app was delayed, but seems so since it’s been about 1.5 years since I submitted it. Thanks in advance for any clarity.
I am not involved in the application process as I am typically contacted when someone wants to request reconsideration after being denied or revoked. I cannot help with processing times or getting an interview.
I would like to apply for sentri I was detained at the border with a illegal person but was not charged or in prison this was 16 yrs ago and I haven’t a problem since that 1st time and my husband is in prison I’m I available to apply for sentri
You have possible issues with both a customs violation and a close association with someone. CBP could express concern over either one.
Mine was revoked by close association, it was my son, would I ever be able to reapply?
CBP has denied or revoked Global Entry or SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess.
I was arrested 16 years ago for possession of Crystal Meth. Because it was a first offense and had a perfectly clean record prior to that, the charges were dropped after a 18 month probation period and records were supposed closed out.
I had attended rehab and have had a totally clean record since 2005, over 18 years ago. I was denied 2 times for global entry. Should I apply for reconsideration? Would it be best to hire a lawyer?
Hi. I have a question. I’m from Iceland. In 2013 I forgot to do my ESTA to travel to the US and someone bought me a ticket. I was only innocently wanting to travel and meeting with this guy, that turned out to be a criminal and wanted in the states but he told lies about me. I was stopped at the airport and they contacted him and he said I was a singer and I was going to move there which is not true. I told the police at the airport what happened but now after 10 years I applied for travel visa but these lies are still what is preventing me to travel to US. How can I fix this? Why is this criminal and trafficking women as he was about to kidnap me, have the power to tell lies about me and that is the only thing in the records but not seeing what actually happened.
You would likely need to submit a waiver along with your B-2 tourist visa application. I do not represent clients for B-2 visas. Try ailalawyer.com to find one.
I have a customs violation (agriculture) in year 2006 and I paid a fine for this violation. I declared the violation in my global entry application in 2010 but I was denied.
Do you think I should reapply again? Also, do I need to declare the violation in my new application
Consider re-applying. Declare any violation.
I had a petty theft over 30 years ago and i had forgotten to tell the agent. She had asked if i had been to jail and I said It was over 30 plus years it was for steaing soemthing. I have had never been arrested since then. Should I even appeal ? What are my chances if I re-apply ?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I just got denied GE with no explanation…I suspect it’s from a couple DUI’s over 18 years ago that I didn’t disclose. I have had background checks where they didn’t show up so I didn’t say anything. Any chance I can successfully appeal?
I had a roommate like 5 years ago that I believe had contraband mailed to our place from overseas in my name. I remember getting a customs letter about a seizure and instructions to either contact them to claim it or have it destroyed automatically which I just ignored. This was ages ago and the only time I’ve ever had any interaction with customs at all. Today after waiting a year+ my global entry application was denied citing “previous agricultural/customs violation”. Is it possible to try and have them overturn this or would I just be wasting my time? It’s kind of annoying because literally anyone can have something mailed anywhere in someone else’s name, and now I feel like I’m stuck.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I had an agriculture fine in the day my GE approved via enrollment on arrival.
I understand the fact that I am fully responsible for my luggage contents, but the way things progressed has made me wonder. I just would like to get an idea on what to expect in near term and legal options if any.
Thanks advance..
If you had a customs violation, I would expect that CBP would revoke your GE status. You would likely have to wait several years before re-applying to show CBP that the incident has not happened again.
Hi,
I applied for a sentri card, got denied for an agriculture fine when I was 24 years now I am 38 years. I reapplied 3 years ago got denied again beacuse of that fine. What should I do.
If possible, I would ask to talk to a supervisor. After ten years, they should clear it from your record. Otherwise, I would talk to my local congressional representative for assistance.
I applied for sentri back in 2012 and got denied should I even try to apply again ? 2004 was in a vehicle and the driver got an agriculture fine I was in the vehicle but was not driving
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I was convicted of an OWVI (operating while visibly impaired) misdemeanor in MI in 2010. The probation was completed in late 2011. Is the 10 year rule from when the conviction was or when the probation was completed? I recently applied and it’s been 11 years since the conviction but a couple weeks shy of 10 years of completion of the probation.
Do they typically ask for paperwork on the conviction/probation at the interview?
I had some trouble in the past when I was 21 I was arrested for wet reckless/dui in 2010 and have a marijuana offense the next year. Fast forward 10 years I have two businesses and regularly travel international for non profit work and leisure. I wanted to get global entry but the chances look slim.
Any chance I would be eligible?
If you are saying you have two convictions, I do not believe you would get it. CBP does not publish opinions on eligibility, but I do not believe someone can get approved with two convictions.
I am aware that all situations are different but from what I am hearing is if you have two convictions it’s extremely uphill. I was recently denied today after being told in the face to face I was approved. I was asked during the interview if I had any convictions during the last ten years for which I responded no. The officer stated he was approving the application. That is all I was asked during the interview. I got home to find out it was approved then revoked 2 minutes later.
I have a conviction in 2005 for a class 3 misdemeanor assault which I fought as I did not touch anyone. I also have a 2009 conviction for driving on a suspended license. I have worked for 20 years with local government and have had no infractions since.
I have not heard of anyone obtaining trusted traveler privileges with more than one criminal conviction or infraction.
I got a $5,000 fine today for getting on the wrong lane again, Sentri.
The first time i got lost do to the gps.
They told me i had to apply for Sentri & i did right after. Paid the Application fee & was just waiting for an interview.
This week i had to go to Mexico again and got into the Sentri lane again with the gps even though i typed Ready Lane etc… i take full responsibility for not re routing over and over till i find the right lane.
I paid them the only $500 i had on me which was 10% of the 5k & Thankfully they left me keep the car because i had kids with me.
Do you know if they allow Payment Plans? Or any way i can be forgiven the rest & never use Sentri Again?
Thank you in advance.
I can help you reduce this fine, Leonardo. Feel free to call or email me directly. mail@johnmanley.net
can I appy for sentry if my husband was deported. 2011 I am resident now.
CBP will likely deny under ‘close association.’
I had my convictions over turned and dismissed from 1993 when I was 18, what would be the chances of getting a Global Card?
I was denied 2 times already before they overturn the charges and dismissed the cases. They also expunged the cases as well for the state side.
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I got denied in 2020 for 10years rule for overstay even though I already had residency. Not sure if I should even try to reapply after 10 years and after became a citizen ? Will that 10 years violation stay fir ever?
Any immigration violation could lead to a denial. It is unclear if CBP will approve if it has been a long time since the violation. Most likely, CBP will deny the application.
I was convicted of a wet reckless
12 years ago and I was able to get it dismissed. Since it was dismissed so I have to disclose it and would it be an auto denial since I was convicted even if it was dismissed?
They might approve it at the initial stage, but probably will not. I recommend obtaining a certified copy of your court transcripts to show them.
I have a petty theft from when I was 18, I am now 31. It also didn’t show on my background check when I applied to get custody of my niece. Should I bother applying?
I would declare that as it will likely pop up on your profile. If you receive an interview, I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
My husband was denied global entry membership because of 2 DUIs going back more than 15 years ago. Would a denial affect his ability to travel/fly in the future?Thank you.
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I was arrested for sleeping in the car intoxicated, which was a DWI at first but then went down to a misdemeanor DWAI. This was over 10 years. Will I qualify for the global check ?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Hopefully, the CBP officer reviewing your case will approve. If not, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
Cbp revoked our sentri last year, we had it for probably 7 years. On 2018 we renewed everything ok, but months later 3 memeber of my fam move to tijuana and 3 more still living same place. We rent a room in a house. The owner used to rent the MAILBOX to x and y persons … 1 of those ladies thought that it was easy to borrow the address to her son, that son was caught by cbp and is in jail now. That person NEVER LIVED in that house, but we are screwed with cbp records and of course sentri, we applied for reconsideration and explained that we have nothing to do with the inmate but we were denied again. We have videos of the security cams were can be shown that they never lived in that place. 1 year have passed already since sentri got rwvoked. Iw something we can do or just forget about having our sentri pass? Thanks… Pd never have a record or anything bad, not even a traffic ticket
CBP could potentially deny or revoke a membership under a ‘close association as an indication of risk’ grounds. I am unclear how a person remedies this situation with CBP.
I plead guilty to making a false statement (18 usc 1001) and got sentenced to probation in 2016. Is that felony automatically bars me from the SENTRI program?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
Our SENTRI (my son and mine) cards were just taken away today, they told me it was because I dropped my sister off before crossing to the US, she crossed walking and I used the SENTRI lane, is that considered a serious act? That event happened Sunday April 30.
I would try to obtain a telephonic appointment with a SENTRI supervisor.
Why is this an issue? I was actually thinking of this as an option if I traveled with someone that didn’t have Global Entry so I didn’t have to wait in a regular line. That’s not allowed?
All passengers and the driver must have SENTRI.
Good afternoon
I applied for global entry and had a detention back in 2004. Got a reject letter from the district attorney stating that I wasn’t charged with anything and the case was dismissed back in 2004. Submitted that letter to Global Entry and they said that was not enough that now hat to go thru the Department of Justice and get a letter of disposition. My application is pending right now. Do you think they might approve me with that letter of the DO
I have not heard of a letter of disposition from DOJ. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the courthouse has destroyed it as an old record, you should still get some form of certified index-based search of the records.
I had possession of cocaine residue in an old device flying into Canada in February 2016. I was not convicted or charged with anything and was let go. They did file a report though and my passport was flagged for 7 years going into Canada. Since than I have gotten approved for a gun license after thier background check and got accepted into career positions after background checks with no issues. Do you think I will have an issue getting approved for global entry?
Yes. I do. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
Hi
If we misunderstood the question and didnt disclose a misdemeanor from past 15 years ago will we get denied? is there anyway to update the application?
do dui charges from minor ages count?
The question is pretty clear and you should not have misunderstood it. Consider explaining your misunderstanding to the officer. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I was arrested for suspicion of DUI in 2011 and ended up pleading NC a misdemeanor obstruction of a highway in 2013. The arrest was in 2011 but my conviction date is in April of 2013. Would I be better off waiting until after April of 2023 to apply for GE?
I got a misdemeanor (wet reckless) 12 years ago and I was granted Global Entry no problem. Took less than 5 minutes to get approved. So don’t worry.
I was recently denied Global Entry due to a 40 year old DWI conviction, 1982.. I was 22 at the time, I am 61 now. Please tell me how this is considered at risk! Why not inform the applicant up front so you are not wasting our time & money.
My husband had a DWI conviction almost 50 years ago and was denied global entry in August! Such a threat to society indeed. Ridiculous.
I share your frustrations. If this was the only negative incident, you probably have a good argument for reinstatement.
wow, them i will definitely be denied, i have a dui from 1999 and thats it!
I was recently denied Global Entry due to a 40 year old DWI conviction, 1982.. I was 22 at the time, I am 61 now. Please tell me how this is considered at risk! Why not inform the applicant up front so you are not wasting our time & money.
Literally the same thing happened to me. Was approved initially, then denied, I appealed, three months later that was denied too and all I have ever had in my whole life was a DUI in 2008. Nothing was ever said to me in the in person interview, I didn’t know to ask the officer anything. Appealed and three months later, still denied and no official reason or explanation. What a waste of time.
Sounds like you old people in your 60s learning what it’s like for people in the modern age with ANY charge even if it wasn’t a conviction. Thanks for the past 30 years of voting in pitiful politicians that passed all these amazing laws to track everything. 1 in 3 Americans have a record and our country acts like charges are convictions. I actually feel better knowing some of you boomers are facing what I face to apply for a job.
That said sounds like I will not be getting my sentri application approved at all. Lol screw the USA.
I applied for GE and had a misdemeanor from over 25 years ago when i was young was told it was expunged or dismissed did not put on application. Will I be granted GE if I didn’t add it? My record has since been clean. What can I do now at the interview? Don’t they only look back 10-20 years? Thanks!
You should declare all adult criminal incidents, regardless of when they were committed. If you decide to apply, I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Might depend on the officer. I had a M4 from 1986 and was approved for GE in 2018 and discosed it on my application (was telephone harrassment pleaded to Disorderly conduct) and put it on my app. At the interview I was asked if I was every arrested and said yes and started to expllain and the officer just cut me off and said “so the answer is yes” Figured I was screwe but then she handed me the little flyer about GE and said it included precheck and I could enter from Canada into the US on the Nexus lane and I’d have a response soon and to to check my spam and got on the shuttle to go to the other terminal to catch my flight and I was approved so don’t give up hope with one minor mideameantor. I applied for renewal in March of 2022 and took until July to get approved again but was approved with no interview which really surprised me
CBP has discretion. For a single misdemeanor or infraction of greater than 10 years they can choose to approve such an application.
I am now 68 years old. About 35 years ago I was charged with a felony in Oklahoma for shoplifting. Is it at all possible to get a Global Entry pass? We live part time in Arizona and part time in Mexico now.
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction. Perhaps yours was reduced to a misdemeanor. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I was denied today because I came as an F1 Visa student and then we applied for adjustment of status through the EB3 process. The agent claimed that I committed a violation because I should have returned to my country when I completed my program or should have pursued a degree.
If you were out of status in any way prior to obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’ I do not know a way to counter that assertion.
I was denied for the SENTRI program on September 14, 2020, due to two misdemeanor convictions (DWLS) back in 1996 and 1997. I submitted a reconsideration letter to the Ombudsman, including court documents asserting that they were minor convictions, and just today, September 20, 2020, consideration letter was denied; I did noticed that the submitted documents that I scanned were blurred. When will I be able to reapply?
I have never heard of someone receiving SENTRI with two convictions. If you think you might be mistaken on this, feel free to contact or call me directly.
I just left a voice mail and wanted to get some feedback from you; I’d like to reconsider reapplying and any feedback from you would be greatly appreciated. You are welcome to contact me at 915-274-2920.
Thank you,
Raoul Urueta
I will call you.
hello, just curious, did you reapplied?? what was the outcome??? my husband had the same problem as you ,and CBP officer told him to send a reconsidereation request. so i just want to know if he might still have a chance
I was wondering If I would get approved SENTRI, if I have a conviction for Domestic Violence from back in 2002?
They will likely deny the initial application Esmeralda. Feel free to contact me directly if that happens and I could help you with reinstatement.
I have a misdemeanor charge for failure to appear in traffic court (I believe this was in Feb. 2011). My GE application has been conditionally approved. Do you think this misdemeanor will prevent approval for GE?
If you have a misdemeanor conviction they can try to deny. You should take in certified copies of the court disposition or minutes. It was over ten years ago, so they should take that into consideration. Good luck with the interview.
i had a dui dismissed 5 years ago, can i still apply for sentri?
I am unclear what you mean by ‘dismissed.’ Feel free to call me to discuss this further.
I just got a DUI and I’m American if I try to renew my sentri will they give it to me or no
My guess is that the would not, especially if it is a recent violation.
Hi. I remember pleading no contest or something like that to a petty theft misdemeanor when I was 19. I am now 35. I remember being told that this avoided an official conviction, which was important. Does that matter and should I disclose it still? Nothing has happened since.
Consider declaring all arrests, regardless of any expungement. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I had found a CBP violation on my record from 2010, which originally denied my SENTRI application back in 2014. I was able to find this on my record through the FOIA website. I have not had any other incidents since then…and just to confirm if I had missed anything else I ran a DOJ background check through my state and did a FBI fingerprint background check as well. Those two came back clean with no history on it. Is it worth reapplying at this point?
This could be the reason for a denial/revocation.
Yes, that was the reason stated on my original denial letter but it’s been 10 years now. Is it worth considering reapplying? Would you take my case if there is a good chance?
I plead no contest to marijuana possession in 2004… 2006 I was granted a Louisiana Governor’s Pardon… Would I be wasting my money trying to get Global Entry?
If that is the only concern, you should be Ok. You should take in the pardon when you go to the global enrollment interview.
Hello i have a question i was denied the sentri pass due criminal record. I was arrested back in 2012 and i did 2 weeks in county jail for theft Wich is a Felony but i did 3 years probation and i was told once my probation was completed and i paid everything back it would turn into a misdemeanor. Would u be able to reapply? Or appeal?
I believe a felony conviction would automatically disqualify you, even if it was later reduced to a misdemeanor and/or expunged.
If I get DUI expunged is there possibility of obtaining back SENTRI?
On the initial application I would expect a denial. Much of it will depend on how long ago it was and the nature of the offense. It could be a case to put in a reinstatement request.
29 years ago 1 passenger in my car didnt have there passport in order and my visa canceled since I was the driver , I have gotten a new visa and SENTRI some years ago , I’m considering applying for US residency, what are my chances ?
I cannot predict your chances. Declare all relevant information, however.
I have misdemeanor for “stalking/harassing phone calls” from 2004 when is was 18. Never went to jail. Will this disqualify me from global entry?
You will likely be denied. If this was your only law enforcement/CBP incident, you might have a good reinstatement possibility. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I had a DUI back in 2003 or 2002, I need to apply for a sentri pass, do I have any chance to get it?
You should get the court records and apply. If you are not successful initially, feel free to contact me.
Hello I had a reckless driving conviction in 2013 in USA. I was denied for global entry. I am looking into requesting a reconsideration for my application. Will it be worth it? And if so should I send any documents supporting this misdemeanor?
They like to see the passage of time and used to say they had a 10 year rule, although that is unofficial. I have obtained a successful reinstatement in the past for someone who had an incident less than ten years earlier. It is a facts and circumstances issue for CBP.
Me and my two children had sentri for 10 years this year and they revoked it when my dad applied because 12 years ago or more he was sent to secondary inspection because he was traveling with a person that had a fake permit amnesty I think it was the name of those papers. So my dad he didn’t k ow of course he was sent to secondary the us cuaotme took his fingerprint and everything and now my dad has something g on his record as smuggler or human trafficking because of that . He has never spent a day in jail he was able to go home that same day he was sent to secondary inspection. Now my whole family had sentri revoked my mom my sister my brother in law . My dad doesn’t even have a traffic ticket . He already explained the situation but no luck . Any help please.
I would ask to speak to a supervisor for SENTRI, if the option is available to you. Otherwise, feel free to call me.
has anyone ever been approved with a dui in their record from 20 years ago?
I have heard of cases approved initially. I have also reinstated people who only had one misdemeanor/infraction and the incident occurred many years previously.
Had disturbing the peace conviction 40 years ago. Received fine.
Only conviction- now 70 yo
Would expungement be necessary before applying for sentri
It’s a criminal conviction and TTP could deny on that basis. I recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition to submit at the interview. The expungement is not particularly relevant.
If you have been previously denied SENTRI and want to try again after the 10 year mark of the offense is it better to “Reapply” or “Request Reconsideration”?
I believe your only option is to reapply. The website is new and will likely not recognize the old profiles.
If you have been previously denied SENTRI and want to try again after the 10 year mark of the minor violation is better to “Reapply” or “Request Reconsideration”?
Better to re-apply as they have a new website portal now.
My wife had a computer fraud felony over 30 years ago, has never been an issue or been seen by any of her employers even though she disclosed it to them. 3 years ago had a domestic assault case which was dismissed because it was false. Should she even bother?
I was previously approved for Global Entry. This time when going back, did the photo and prints update. Then today I got a letter stating that I had some sort of criminal offense, which is not true.
You would have to prove them wrong by getting background checks, court records, etc… Feel free to contact me if you want assistance with this.
I was arrested for possession in Jun, 2012. I completed a diversion program that same year and my case was dismissed. In Oct, 2017 I was approved for Global Entry Membership. Then, out of the blue, my membership was revoked in July, 2020. At the time of my application in 2012, GOES did not require applicants to admit to anything other than a criminal CONVICTION which I did not have. Since then it appears the application requirements have been tightened to include “no criminal ARRESTS” either. I am appealing my revocation, but wonder if it’s possible that an 8 year old arrest record would really be the cause for revocation after a clean 3 year membership.
It appears that the program has been revoking quite a few people. In your case, you might be able to apply successfully once it has been a full ten years without any other negative factors.
I was arrested for a joy ride as a minor (17) in California 30 years ago. The record was sealed. I did declare this on the application however as I did have my fingerprints taken, I was on probation. I am a teacher/professor and I have always denied criminality in applications, but I understand that the Sentri application process it could come up.
That would not be an adult criminal violation, however.
I was convicted of a petty theft misdemeanor 17/18 years ago. Never went to jail, only paid a small fine. I did declare in my global entry application. Is that cause for denial
They can deny based on any criminal violation, Laura. If that was a one time only incident, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
Hi I got a dui in 2018 reduced to reckless driving and I got my my sentri taken away. If I get it expungment is possible for me to reapplied it my only offense on my record. Also I not sure if this true but they said it would come off this year but I not sure how true this is .
Hello Rachael. I thing the passage of time with no further negative incidents is more important than the expungement. The expungement cannot hurt however and is a good idea.
I’m an American citizen who was denied entry into the UK because they said I could not convince them that I was a tourist, which I was. I had been to the UK twice that year, so they suspected I was working, although they never actually made that accusation. I was not charged with anything but was held for hours, and then led back to an airplane to my home airport. Would such an incident be problematic? Would I have to open up that can of worms in an interview?
I do not know if this would arise in a global entry interview or not. If CBP asks, definitely declare it.
I got deniend because I over stayed my vis 7 years ago before I got my Green card. I applied for the first reconsideration and it got denied. Is by any chance apply for second reconsideration?
They have been denying people on this basis. Perhaps you might have more luck with the incoming administration in a new application.
Hi, my husband had the sentri pass, it was revoked because he unknowingly was used as a mule. His case was of course dismissed. Can a case like that be fought to be eligible once again?
I think you should obtain the proper documentation of that incident. Once you have that you could try to reinstate. Contact me if you want assistance.
I’m wondering whether I made a mistake on my GE application. When asked about conviction, I truthfully said I was convicted of a minor misdemeanor 14 years ago, unauthorized use of property, and I provided the date and name of the court. I told them that it is sealed and no longer appears on my FBI background check. However, since I really hate talking about that incident, I did not explain any further. I didn’t say that the original charge was petty theft and was amended to the lower misdemeanor, unauthorized use of property. Since learning how stringent this process is, I’m worried that lack of detail might result in a denial. Maybe I should try to cancel and reapply?
Your original charge is not particularly relevant. If you declared what you were actually convicted of, that sounds like you answered the question correctly to me.
I’ve applied three times for Sentri, in 2014, 2017 and 2019 all three have been denied. I can’t get pass the first filter, have never been able to get to an actual appointment. My guess is that my father had a drug related offense back in 1997, my parents got divorced in 1998 and my mom had full custody of me. I sent documents to the ombudsman explaining that I have no relationship or contact with my father since 1998 and have documents to prove it but I have not heard a response, these documents were sent in 2018. Is there a possibility I might ever be elegible for Sentri? Is there any process I can follow? I am a mexican citizen with a current turist visa.
You might consider DHS TRIP Redress. Feel free to research this on your own. If you would like me to write it for you, please contact me directly. Thank you.
Greetings! I apply for SENTRI 10/23/2021.
I have and Ammended to petit theft conviction on 2008, I become U.S. citizen recently. I have all the paperwork of my case. I did put that i have criminal record on my appication. It is the possibility to qualify for this process.? Thanks. What if I expunged my case?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi I got a DauI back in February 2017 if I apply for a sentri would I be approve or denied. Thanks
Hi I got a DUI back in February 2017 if I apply for a sentri would I be approve or denied. Thanks
They typically like to see the passage of time before approving SENTRI, assuming you have had only one misdemeanor. What that amount of time is a facts and circumstances decision by CBP. I would not think 3 years is long enough.
When filling out sentri application it asks if ever applied I did don’t remember the exact date but was denied should I say I did apply? It also asks for fast id# membership number etc I never had one .should I say no never applied but I don’t want to lie
Contact customer service for this question, please. I am not involved in the application process as I am typically contacted when someone wants to request reconsideration
I previously had a sentri card. In 2011 I crossed from Mexico to the US drunk. Got arrested there then booked at county jail for DUI and the officer took my Sentri card..it’s been 10 years and would like to reapply. Do you think I would get approved? Or should I expunge first.no other criminal, violations etc ever!
I think it is a good reinstatement case. You just have to keep in mind that the program has been in a dark place the past year with zero customer service and questionable input from the Ombudsman’s office.
My spouse was denied GE today after his in person interview with CBP leaving Aruba. He works for the federal government, so we assumed he’d be okay. When he was 19 in college (42 now), he and his roommates were arrested and imprisoned during the duration of the case, but his case was dismissed. He was charged with a DUI in January 2020 and after a year it was reduced to wreckless driving. Is it worth appealing or is he out of luck?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I was given felony deferred adjudication probation around 1996. I was told back then that is not considered a conviction. Is that correct? Could I qualify for global entry? I have tsa pre check but would like to get GE instead.
I am not a criminal lawyer. I would check that with such an attorney.
I had a sentri card which is now expired. I am looking to get a GE but I had an expunged misdemeanor (criminal property damage) from 1998. Do you feel this will keep me from getting approval for GE?
Initially, it may likely be denied. I recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition when you apply. If that is the only issue you face, it would be a good reinstatement case.
I have been denied twice I just got denied today for a second time and I don’t know why I have been arrested, convicted or have a criminal record. Never had a problem with a CBP officer or smuggle anything to the country. So I don’t know what is going on. I have the interview and everything but it just gets denied.
Feel free to call me sometime, Jorge.
I recently (03/06/21) did GE enrollment on entry in Bermuda prior to returning to the states. I had conditional approval awaiting an interview, which I had at US customs in Bermuda. The agent said i was approved and even had me use one of the kiosks to verify it worked. I got a notification saying my status was approved later that day. Today 03/09/21 I received a notification that my status was revoked. The reason listed is that “You are not eligible for TTP programs”. No further details, what am I supposed to do with that? Apparently i was eligible when they give me conditional approval and again after my interview. What could have changed? After looking at the comments here it seems DUIs are common issues. I did get a DUI in like 2005, but i listed that on my application and disclosed it in my interview. So its not like they didn’t know about it. Any thoughts?
A misdemeanor is grounds for denial. I might be able to help me with this. Call me sometime and we can discuss.
My kids and i were revoked from sentry program and denial for reconsideration, i have no convition of any kind, on the time of denials was when i when to get the card for my son he was just 3months old, the officer that did the interview said she was removing my cards because i was hidding my husband at my house, he lives in Tijuana, i told her that but she only said i already put it on the computer you would have to do a reconsideration online…and i got denial like 4 times 3 reconsidarations and 1 reaply, can i do something about this?
That sounds like a complex issue. Feel free to call me to discuss.
It’s sounding like anything more than one minor offense within the last ten years is not even worth applying. So a first offense wet reckless within the last year is simply to new and will not get approved?
A wet reckless is a misdemeanor. If it just happened within the last year chances are you are still under probation. I highly doubt that CBP would approve.
I have a civil DVPO placed on me. Would I get denied for global entry? They send me to secondary inspection every time I cross the US-Mexico land border.
I am unclear on what the Trusted Traveler program would do with that. You could consider filing DHS Trip for the secondary inspections issues. Contact me directly if you want me to prepare that for you.
Basically, I’m wondering if a civil domestic violence case on my record would be a disqualifier for this program. I understand criminal penalties often are, but I’m not sure how the CBP views this, especially since they send me to secondary every time due to the protection order placed on me.
I do not generally get involved in the application process John. The criteria is on the Trusted Traveler website. DHS Trip could help with the secondary inspections issues.
My husband who is retired military and has had very high security clearances for his entire career and after as a government contractor was denied a few years ago because of a DUI reduced to reckless driving in 2011. Is it worth applying again?
I recommend obtaining a certified copy of the court disposition and submitting it as part of the application. If that does not succeed initially, it could be a good reinstatement case, assuming no other issues of course.
Help – just denied global entry. Whey to I do now?
I do not quite understand your question. You are not required to do anything. If you want to apply for reinstatement, you would do that on your TTP profile. Feel free to contact me directly if you want assistance/representation on a reinstatement request.
I have sentri since 2017 its due on 2022 but I just got a DUI. Am I going to be able to renew it? I saw my case and its not even considered a felony and the alcohol % is the minor.
A DUI is a criminal offense. CBP can revoke your privileges with a misdemeanor offense.
Hi I would like to know the outcome of your case? On the same boat
In 1985 I walked out from a Department store in TX with a t-shirt on my arm. I was in a hurry after discovered that I left my wallet in my car. I was stopped just outside the store. I got myself an attorney, went to court, paid a $200 fine and no jail time. I have a Green card and Norwegian Citizen. Do you think I will have a problem applying for Global Entry?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. CBP may very well deny. If this is your only infraction, you might have a good argument in a reinstatement request to the Ombudsman.
Hi, I was pulled over and eventually found guilty for DWAI 1192 in NYS In 2008. I was under the impression that after 10 years it would no longer be on my record. I didn’t disclose that I had been arrested in the application. How should I have answered that question? Do I have a chance to obtain global entry with that history? Thanks for your time.
It does not vanish from your record, unless you do something like vacating it. You would have had to declare it. If that is the only issue, it might be a good reinstatement case.
Hello wife entered without inspection in 2006, and accrued unlawful presence, which was waived(I-601a). Is there any way to get approved now or in the future?
I just received an email letting me know that I can renew my TSA/Precheck that expires 9/29/21. I would rather apply for GE. But I have a DUI on my record from 10/10/21. Should I try?
TSA is a separate agency from CBP and they use different guidelines. I have had clients who renewed their TSA/Precheck despite having been revoked from the Trusted Traveler program.
Was conditionally approved for Global Entry. I disclosed 3 misdemeanor convictions for DUI on my application. All were much later than 10 yrs. ago. I worked in law enforcement for 30 years and recently retired. Went to the interview and was denied. I presented all my certified court documents . Two cases had been purged. The agent barely looked at them. Should I ask for a review or reinstaement and supply the docs to the Ombudsman? Wondering if it’s a waste of time.
I have not heard of successful applications with more than one conviction.
Hello- I was arrested around 20ish years ago in Illinois for battery when I was 13ish yrs old. I was falsely accused but I was so afraid and embarrassed. Pictures and finger prints were taken. I was told my the officer that after I became an adult (18 yrs) it should disappear from my record. Is this true? Should I disclose this information in my GE application?
Hello. Juvenile incidents are largely private matters. I do not see how that would be part of an adult record.
Would a juvenile conviction in a foreign country at age 16 not to be disclosed? I.e. a school yard fight resulting in a simple assault conviction.
I have no information on foreign laws. Juvenile offenses have privacy issues that likely change from state to state. You should declare any adult offense. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Where can I check my criminal record to see everything that I have 🤦🏻♀️
You should look into an FBI background check.
Why are chances of Getting global entry For getting denial overturn due to 3rd Sentri violation, I have a medical condition that makes it difficult sometimes with maps and direction and road signs and traffic can real I have documentation from VA doctor, am former USMC, clean record other than that. Live in Mexico, need to cross border for work and Medical appointments. No agenda, I promise honest mistakes. Thanks
Hello Ronald. You might want to talk to a SENTRI supervisor first about this.
I was sent to secondary because my son did not activate his new sentri the official said that I have one strike, can that strike be erased?
I would not know that. You might try speaking to a supervisor at one of the global enrollment centers.
I applied in 2017 for global entry and was denied, no explanation given. On my denial letter it says I don’t meet the strict program requirements. I have never been arrested or have had problems with the law besides some speeding tickets. What are my chances of getting denied if I reapply?
CBP does not seem to be giving out reasons for denials now. That is very frustrating. Feel free to call me and I might be able to issue spot with you.
was arrested for False imprisonment and Misdemeanor domestic battery in 2004. applied for and was granted approval for Global entry in 2013 with this information disclosed. I have had noting else since my 2004 incidents but my renewal was denied. whats could be the cause of this? all the info said do not meet eligibility requirements
I believe the program is auditing and revoking anyone with a record. It could be a good reinstatement case.
I was arrested 2 times, once for resisting arrest and the other for domestic violence in 2009. Both charges were dismissed, so I have no convictions. Do I have a chance at getting Global Entry?
It would seem so if that is the case. But, you would have to prove to them you did not have any convictions. You would need to obtain certified copies of court records, and the like.
I have two priors, the first one was for theft, when i was 17 years old. Case was dismissed after serving community service. 2nd one was when i was 18 years old and i was charged with a misdemeanor for theft again. I’m now 39 and haven’t had a single incident. I’m scared to apply cause my brother and sister in law has GE and don’t want theirs to to be revoked. Any advice?
If you all live together, CBP might think there is a risk due to close association.
I live by myself, but we live in the same city. What are my chances and should I risk it?
I got a DUI 22 years ago. Do I have a chance of getting a sentri pass?
The program would likely deny you. I imagine that you would have to make a reinstatement argument to the Ombudsman. I recommend obtaining certified copies of your court transcripts.
I had a DUI which was expunged from my record 9 years ago. I have been conditionally approved and have a upcoming interview. I have the paper work to show it was expunged. What are my chances?
My guess is that they will deny you. You might then put in a reinstatement petition, or wait until a full ten years have passed since the incident, assuming no other negative incidents of course.
I find myself in a comparable circumstance. Can you provide any recent developments on this matter?
I got a warning from border patrol 15yrs ago because the person that was with me was illegal. Can they deny my application? I already done the interview had my finger prints taken and still haven’t been approved.
That could prove problematic, especially if you were attempting to cross with that person.
I have GE since 2017. In 2019 I received a Neg driving conviction. I haven’t received any communication from CBP revoking my status, should I need to inform them about this incident? I have used my GE quite number of times after the incident and I had to appear for a secondary inspection each time. I’m not sure if I need to notify them now or just push it through next renewal. Thanks for your advise.
Hi, I failed to declare a customs gift for my husband returning from Nicaragua. I did not realize a cigar from Cuba was a violation. I only bought two as a gift. I had received approval for GE even after this incident. Now that I was renewing my membership, it came back revoked. It has been more than 10 years plus that was my only mistake and I have a clean record. I just reapplied. Does this mean I may never get GE approval again even though they approved me at the interview before. Appreciate your thoughts. Thank you.
Hopefully, ten years with no further negative incidents will convince CBP to grant the application. I think the passage of time plays a role in their decision-making.
Hey, did you have any luck with the application process after the 10 years?
My husband has a criminal conviction from 11 years ago , would my kids and I possibly be denied Sentri? They revoked his parents passes shortly after his incident happened, him and I were not together when it occurred.
Especially with SENTRI, the program tends to deny households as a unit due to close association.
Reading through all the comments, Im pretty sure I know the answer. But will a DUI from 2005 deny me GE? I’m in the process of filing out the paperwork but don;t want to waste money on a denial.
The Trusted Traveler program might approve initially. I would take in certified copies of your court disposition. If initially unsuccessful, it could be a good reinstatement matter. Alot of credit cards will credit you the application fee if the filing fee is an issue.
I was arrested for domestic violence about 8-10 years ago. I was never charged and the case was dismissed. Will I get approved for SENTRI?
If you were never charged, you would not have had a case at all. If you had a case, which it sounds like you did, I would contact the courthouse to obtain a certified copy of the disposition/minutes. I would submit that at the SENTRI interview.
Me and my family are long time SENTRI users. I was arrested for DUI in Sept 2020. But my case apparently is delayed at the DA, and I never received a court date – no conviction. Meanwhile my SENTRI still works. But it is expiring soon. Should I apply for renewal?
If you receive a conviction, the program will revoke you. If you do not receive a conviction, take in certified copies of court records.
I was approved for sentri and am waiting on the card to arrive. It’s been ten days since my interview, and I have been stopped more for “random” secondary and aqi (agriculture) inspections in that period of ten days than I have in the last 4 YEARS. What gives? I cross at one of two bridges daily.
You could consider filing a DHS Trip Redress. I would first try to ask the officers why CBO is sending you to secondary so often now.
Hi. I am debating just TSA vs Global Entry for our whole family. My husband (age 50), had a theft charge on his record. He was 18 years old, $25 and under and we thought sealed, but found out recently it does show up. I hate to pay if he would be denied. Will this just come down to the interview? Thank you!
I can’t comment on TSA PreCheck. I would obtain certified copies of your husband’s court disposition. It is a conviction so they may deny it. It was a long time ago and they could use their discretion in approving it.
I was arrested twice, once in 1973 and once in 1977, both for DUI. The first was reduced to reckless driving, for which I was convicted, the second I was convicted of Misdemeanor DUI. I entered rehab in 1984, and have been clean and sober for 36 years. I was just denied at my GE interview, an interview rescheduled by CBP 4 times in the past 2 years, as soon as I showed the agent my court disposition records. He stated 2 convictions within a 10 year period are a disqualification, and I am welcome to contact the Ombudsman. I have filled out the Ombudsman form on the TTP website. Sad that 45+ year old mistakes would haunt me after 36 years of clean living, not even a parking ticket, which it sounds like after reading your answer to these posts. I will repost if/when I hear back from the Ombudsman.
I have not heard of any approvals with multiple convictions. Good luck with your request.
Hi, my sentri card was revoked while the process to renewal it. I had three midsminors.
1. Forget my driver license at home
2. Mistake the sentri card for my daughter’s
3. Don’t remember
When would be possible to file for a new a application?
Hello Larisa. I have never heard of someone receiving SENTRI with more than one conviction.
My wife was convicted of computer fraud (felony) over 30 years ago, but hasn’t shown up when applying for employment even though she disclosed it. 3 years ago had a domestic assault incident which was dismissed (it just wasn’t true). Should she bother applying for GE?
Hello Chris. I have never heard of someone receiving GE with a felony conviction.
I had went to my SENTRI interview this past week and was approved, I went again for my children and my brother in law, when helping my brother in law with his interview I mentioned I had DACA before and then the officer stated I wasn’t allowed to have the SENTRI because of DACA, saying that I had committed an immigration crime, I entered the US legally with a passport. The officer now stated I had to wait now 10 years to apply and my husband as well because he knew I ad DACA. I am aware of other people who had DACA before and now have SENTRI can I try to as for an appeal this? It wasn’t even my interview when this happened and I had been approved already.
If you had DACA, you were presumably out of status at one point. I do not know how it would be possible to get SENTRI in that situation.
Hello,
I applied and was granted SENTRI in 2014 with two previous misdemeanors. One infraction was from 1990 and another from 2007. At the time of my interview, I was asked for the disposition of the incident from 2007. They scanned it in and I got approved. However, my SENTRI expired in 2020 and I submitted application for renewal. I was granted temporary approval and they scheduled my interview. At the interview, they requested the disposition for the incident in 1990 and once they scanned and reviewed, I was notified that same day via email that I was denied because I didn’t qualify due to having 2 misdemeanors. My question is if I have any chance at reconsideration? The 1990 incident was for an assault charge I pleaded no-contest and the 2007 incident was a guilty plea for a DWAI. I live in Nogales AZ but work in Nogales Sonora. It’s presente a big issue for me.
Hello Cesar. I have never heard of someone receiving SENTRI with more than one conviction.
I was falsely accused of public servant in 2015. Never got arrested for the charge but got convicted of a misdemeanor. This is my only charge and I’m the process on getting a pardon. Would this deny me?
If you have a presidential or governor’s pardon, you should receive it. Otherwise, you have a misdemeanor conviction and the program will likely deny you.
Will a wet n reckless deny my sentri ?
Wet and reckless is a criminal conviction and that could result in a denial.
Hello, I was charged with burglary and then the court dropped it to a misdemeanor and expunged it off my record 11 years ago. It’s my only case on my record. Will I have a chance getting the Sentri pass I take my court documents? I’m currently a teacher as well.
I recommend obtaining a certified copy of your court transcripts to show them at the interview.
Hi Admin,
I had two visa overstays over 17 years ago. I subsequently married a US citizen (15 years ago) and after obtaining a visa waiver got a green card and have been living in US with husband ever since. Do you think I can get Global Entry? Any advice appreciated, thank you
If you were out of status in any way prior to obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’ I do not know a way to counter that assertion.
My son is currently incarcerated for felony drug conviction in Wa state. I’m in California. I’ve only had 2 speeding tickets my entire life . Would his conviction affect me getting a Sentri pass?
If you were living together, the program could deny you as being closely associated with someone who is a risk factor.
During my interview I was asked if I ever smoked marijuana, I did not lie and said yes. Told the adgent, not something I did very often and could not remember the last time I did, my words, were not in a blue moon. Worth contesting?
Marijuana use is not allowed on a federal basis, although it is legal in some states. I have heard of people being rejected or revoked on this basis.
Is there any chance of a reversal? Should I have lied, looking back maybe but I choose the truth. Does pointing this out hold any chance of a change?
I applied for the GE program 5 years ago and was denied based on a felony minor conviction when I was 15. I am 49 years now and travel a lot with my Emotional Support Animal (I am a veteran), so I want the GE program because waiting in line with a dog after a long flight (UGH). I even used to work for the DOT/FAA/DHS/TSA and had clearance to bypass check points for several years. I have clearances with the Nuclear Regulatory Commision, etc. I have never been in trouble since the age of 15 and have 34 years with a spot free record and I was denied. This year I find out a friend with a wet and reckless was granted GE, but yet I was not. Something is very wrong here and this is upsetting. Should I reapply? I have had my Trusted Traveler for 5 years now, with no issues. I want the GE because I travel more international these days….. 14 times to Central America in the last two years.
I applied for the GE program 5 years ago and was denied based on a felony minor conviction when I was 15(1986) I am 49 years now and travel a lot with my Emotional Support Animal (I am a veteran), so I want the GE program because waiting in line with a dog after a long flight (UGH). I even used to work for the DOT/FAA/DHS/TSA and had clearance to bypass check points for several years. I have clearances with the Nuclear Regulatory Commision, etc. I have never been in trouble since the age of 15 and have 34 years with a spot free record and I was denied. This year I find out a friend with a wet and reckless was granted GE, but yet I was not. Something is very wrong here and this is upsetting. Should I reapply? I have had my Trusted Traveler for 5 years now, with no issues. I want the GE because I travel more international these days….. 14 times to Central America in the last two years.
Feel free to call me sometime. I am not sure how an incident taking place as a minor would be considered a felony.
I was wondering if I would be denied sentri if I was detained overnight at the san ysidro border over 10 years ago due to attempting to cross with an illegal immigrant. I also have a DUI which was expunged from my record.
Do I have any chance at getting a approved, should I even bother applying?
You have two law enforcement incidents. I would highly doubt the program would accept you.
I work for a computer company who imports from China and I am the purchaser. We had a tablet shipment in 2017 that was mislabeled by the shipper as assembled in the USA but were actually made in China and these were seized by CBP when they had a random inspection.(We did not advise them to put these stickers on them) They did not give us a chance to re-export them or correct them and we heard they were destroyed. About 8 months after this happened, my GE was revoked. I requested information about it but they said that basically “I did not qualify for the program any longer”. I have not tried to re-apply and figure that this event was the only thing that caused the revokation as I had no personal issues nor any criminal or law enforcement issues, personally. Would I be flagged for GE forever or is it worth trying this again in a few years? I successfully got TSA Precheck immediately afterwards but as I do travel to Asia (once things open up again), I did like the GE process and personally did nothing wrong.
That may very well have been the reason why you were revoked. You likely should wait a certain period before re-applying as CBP generally likes to see the passage of time without any negative events. How long is anyone’s guess.
I was arrested 30 years ago (in 1991). This was a single arrest producing multiple charges: Possession of Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class E drugs, Larceny over $100, and Receiving Stolen Goods. I pled guilty to all counts and went to detox. I’ve been clean since. I’ve never had any other arrests or convictions before or since. My record was sealed in 2013. I was denied on my application for Global Entry. Should I bother applying for reconsideration, or are the number of counts disqualifying even though they were the result of a single arrest?
You should obtain certified copies of whatever is available from the court, if you do decide to request reconsideration. If this was a felony conviction, I doubt if the Ombudsman’s office would overturn the prior decision.
I had two DUIs, years 1995 and 1997. Y completed all programs required by the law back then. Within time I went back to school, became a teacher, and worked at several public schools. I m retired now. Applied for SENTRI and have an appointment in July 2021, What are the chances that i get my application approved?
Thank you,
TG
I have not heard any cases of applicants receiving SENTRI with more than one conviction. It’s a facts and circumstances consideration. Take in certified copies of your court dispositions to your interview.
My husband got approved global entry yesterday and a few hours later the status went from approved to revoked. No information has been provided as to why. IN the interview he mentioned how he had an incident 10 years ago with a MIP for drinking alcohol in public. he pleaded guilty , took the course and got it expunged from his record. IN the application itself however he did not mention the MIP because he was never actually arrested and thus didn’t think it was necessary. How would he be able to appeal this ?
If he pleaded guilty to a crime, which it sounds like he did, that could be grounds for revocation. He could argue for reconsideration.
I’ve had Global Entry for 10 yrs already and it’s time for renewal but the current renewal application is much more detailed than I remember, now asking to list arrests, not just convictions. I’ve been arrested a few times from the age of 21 through 40 for a variety of things from possession of a deadly weapon (charges dropped) to a DUI (pled down to local municipality misdemeanor) and an arrest in CA that I don’t remember what it was for. I was never convicted from what I can remember but how can I get a complete dossier of everything to go through? I don’t recall ever having to list arrests on this renewal application. If they only really go back 10 years I’m fine but if not, from what I’m reading on this site, I’m probably going to lose my GOES and TSA PreCheck memberships. Please contact me via email and I’ll provide my # so we can discuss further. Thanks so much.
I believe we spoke on the phone.
Hi,
I have recently applied and received residency cards from Mexico and Panama and on my way back from a trip to Panama a CBP officer looked at my passport and walked me to a room where another officer asked me questions about what i was doing on my recent trips to UK, Mexico and Panama and asked me if i was born in Yemen and how i got my US citizenship, everything seemed okay i answered all his questions he walked me out and 3 days later i get a notice that my GE has been revoked reason: “You do not meet program eligibility requirements.” I have heard of hundreds of cases where people who were born in countries that were on the trump travel ban or people with Muslim sounding names had their GE revoked.
i don’t have any convections or violations. do you think it might be worth a shot to appeal? and from your experience in this case would a FOIA show what caused the officer to determine that i no longer meat their standers for a low risk traveler?
Thank you,
Salah
I doubt a FOIA would help you. If you keep getting sent to secondary inspections you could consider DHS Trip Redress. Your various residencies might have triggered a government database.
My husband had a felony 27 years ago. We have a letter from the governor giving him his rights back. I sent all of the documentation for this. He has not had any other problems in 27 years. He was denied. We have traveled out of the country with no issues. What do we do about this, if anything.
If he has been fully pardoned, he should have all of his rights back. Trusted Traveler status is a privilege not a right, however. You might consider your local congressman or senator for assistance.
Hello – I had a 2011 misdemeanor conviction for DUI. It has now passed the 10-year threshold with no negative incidents since. However, I also have two expunged misdemeanor separate arrests on my adult record dating back to 1999 and 2000 (underage drinking and misdemeanor possession of controlled substances – marijuana). I went to the active U.S. Army in 2000, where my Army recruiter told me he would have those two charges dropped if I went into the Army. The whole time I am serving overseas for 4 years with a Secret Clearance (honorable discharge, BTW), I thought my adult record was clean due to my recruiter. I got out of the Army, and in 2010 I found out that the recruiter did not do anything with the courts when I left for the Army. I thought my adult record was clean until 2010, when I found out that I had warrants for these two charges from 2000 to 2010. I had an attorney in 2010 get those two charges dismissed in court based on the statute of limitations; something like over 10 years had passed when he went to court after the arrests occurred, so he stated it was pretty simple for him to get the charges dismissed. I have those court documents from the attorney. Both charges are expunged from my record, and my understanding is that a “dismissed” court case is not considered a conviction and not considered guilty. I am wondering, in your opinion, should I even bother applying for a Global Entry pass? They will see 3 total arrests on my adult record, 1 DUI conviction in 2011, and two dismissed misdemeanors from over 20 years ago, and of course, I would admit those arrests if asked in the interview. But I don’t want to waste my time applying if you think it may get denied based on the DHS’s current approval practices. Thanks
I have never heard of anyone receiving Trusted Traveler status with more than one conviction. If you had to originally plead guilty to any of the incidents that were expunged CBP could take the position that you have more than one conviction.
Mr. Manley ,
Thank you for taking the time to answer my question here,
like you said my residencies might have triggered some database, the CBP officer also told me that he had to ask me these questions because it looks suspicious getting multiple residencies within a short period, i tried to explain that getting them makes investing in real estate much easier for me there.
would you recommend writing a letter explaining things better to the Ombudsman or just leave it a lone and try my luck again after a few years has passed with no issues?
do you think the Trusted traveler reconsideration and restoration Act of 2021 would help in cases like these in the future?
Thank again.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. I am unfamiliar with the Act you mention.
Hi. I read most of the comments, but I haven’t found similarity to my case. I know everyone’s different. I got denied for GE. I was undocumented for at least 10 years in the US prior to becoming “documented.” Although the uninformed/unprepared agent kept asking the same ” when did you apply for your case to be ok in the country?” My answer didn’t matter. I’d sensed denial already, so as I was to leave, I asked, “from what point on its the 10 year ban enforced, from the time I stopped being undocumented or from the moment I became undocumented (even though I had a case going)? “He just answered from the moment you had the first incident!” My 2 questions: 1. Would it be safe to apply for TSA given the GE denial? now Or, should I wait it out for the remaining 10 years and re-apply for GE? (P. S. I wish the CBP would list this clearly on their site. I didn’t know any of the bans until interviewed. But, of course they want the money first so denial is a profit regardless.)
Similar to customs violations, immigration violations seem to remain in a person’s file. I do not believe such incidents expire on a person’s record. You could try Mobile Passport for international travel and apply directly for TSA PreCheck instead if you decide not to re-apply to the Trusted Traveler program.
Hi there! I just sent in my application last night for the global entry program. I had a DWI in 1999 that was deferred. I have never taken the time to get it expunged. I completely spaced that while in Louisiana at the age of 19 (1994) I did get a DUI that I was charged with. Is there a chance that I will get denied? Also, should I go ahead and get my TSA approval while waiting to hear back from the global entry? I can go in as a walk-in tomorrow morning and get that taken care of. Will that help my chances of getting approval for global entry? And is there a way I can run a background check on myself to see what all comes up. Ive also been finger printed about 3 years ago for real estate- so I am in the system as far as fingerprinting goes. TIA!
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who has had more than one misdemeanor incident. You could apply directly to TSA PreCheck. Do a search for FBI-approved Channelers to obtain your FBI records.
I am 48, when I was 18 or 19 (30 years ago which would have been 1991/1992), I received an underage drinking ticket. I paid the ticket. Is this something I need to claim on my Global Entry Application?
I would declare that as it will likely pop up on your profile. If you receive an interview, I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I’m wondering if you know how the program treats Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) participants. This was 3 years ago, but you get put on unmonitored probation where you just stay out of trouble, and then at the end of the program the charges are dismissed and the matter is expunged. In Pennsylvania, it truly is not a conviction or a guilty plea and the only place that has a copy of the records is the District Attorney’s office for sentencing purposes if someone reoffends. The FBI fingerprint check doesn’t even show it. I’m obviously going to disclose the DUI charges when I go to renew, but do you know if this is likely to result in a denial given that it’s not a guilty plea or a conviction? If it’s denied initially, is it worth requesting reconsideration?
Hello,
I Just applied for GE. Over 15 years ago (early 20s), I was charged with a simple affray (altercation). That is the only thing on my record. Since then, I’ve gained 3 degrees, work for a community college, and volunteer in my community. Will I have a chance of getting approved?
If you receive an interview, I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hello. I have immigration arrest in April 2010(expired visa).Than I was in removal proceedings. In 2015 I got Green Card. In 2019 I became citizen. In August 2019 I went to interview for GE and lady officer told me that they will denied my application because of immigration violation but she was nice to me so instead of denial she put in a system cancellation of application from my side:)
So my question is: Does my violation on record expired in 10 years( 2020-2021) and I can try to fill out application again, or I must wait 10years from the date I received my Green Card.
Thank you in advance for your reply!!!
Similar to customs violations, immigration violations seem to remain in a person’s file. I do not believe such incidents expire on a person’s record. You could try Mobile Passport for international travel and apply directly for TSA PreCheck instead.
have a conviction for Domestic Violence from back in 1994 and then it was expunged in 1996, i had no run-ins with the law, do you think i can still get my global entry approved? i did disclosed it and its still showing Wait for conditional approval past 3 weeks
If you receive an interview, I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I have a current sentri card. My mom who is a US citizen is 79 with poor health and she doesn’t have sentri. She has ready lane. She will soon get her gallbladder removed. If she has an emergency where I need to take her to the hospital in the U.S., can I take her with me through sentri? Also before we cross, can I dial 911 and have the ambulance meet her at the border?
My understanding of SENTRI is that only people with the pass can cross in the lane. As far as the hospital issue is concerned, you should contact the hospital directly as I do not have the expertise to answer that question.
I was advised by CBP that my application was being denied for having pork products that were a gift to me for which I paid a fine 14 years ago. I had forgotten about it till questioned during my interview. Is this something that you can help with.
Unfortunately, agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. I just did a blog for Think Immigration where I discussed this issue. CBP needs to do a better job with people who have had old customs violations. See https://thinkimmigration.org/blog/2021/08/04/trusted-traveler-program-fumbles/
I got a DUI conviction july 2021. I had GE and it was revoked because of it. When do you think I can apply for it? I dont want to wait the 10 years they say. Its my only offense ive had in over 10 years(traffic wise). I really need it because i look after a parent and their doctor is in mexico and we need to go to have her seen.
Ten years is an unofficial policy. If it just happened you will likely have to wait a while before reinstatement. You could try Mobile Passport for international travel and apply directly for TSA PreCheck.
I had a DUI in 2001. Will they deny the sentri pass?
I would estimate that CBP would initially deny you. Once that happens, you could then decide to apply for reinstatement or reconsideration with the Ombudsman through your Trusted Traveler Profile. Keep in mind that corresponding with the Ombudsman is a a one-time only correspondence. Your first correspondence should be your best argument, rather than saying, ‘why was I denied?’ If you like, contact me before writing to the Ombudsman and I could help you submit a good argument.
Hola! Tuve un delito menor clasificación C
Pague una multa hice servicio comunitario (era menor de edad) ya hace 11 años. Cree que me puedan aprobar mi sentri mi esposo ya la tiene y yo aplicaré junto a mis hijos en septiembre es nuestra cita. Gracias!!!
My apologies for replying in English, Claudia. I would estimate that CBP would initially deny you. Once that happens, you could then decide to apply for reinstatement or reconsideration with the Ombudsman through your Trusted Traveler Profile. Keep in mind that corresponding with the Ombudsman is a a one-time only correspondence. Your first correspondence should be your best argument, rather than saying, ‘why was I denied?’ If you like, contact me before writing to the Ombudsman and I could help you submit a good argument.
Had a federal felony conviction in the mid-1980’s and was incarcerated until the mid-1990s. (Non-drug and not involving and CBP-type violations). Traveling for work I applied for TSA PreCheck and was approved. A few years ago when a family member was getting married in Europe I decided to apply for Global Entry. I was asked to provide the original indictment, disposition, and discharge. I received a follow-up phone interview and was shocked when the investigator told me she already knew because she had called the US District Attorney’s Office and spoke to someone involved with my case. Surprisingly the US Attorney confirmed everything I submitted and even though the conviction was over 30 years, she was calculating the time starting from the end of parole, which was over 20 years. Another in-person interview and another electronic fingerprint set and a few weeks later Global Entry approved. Have used it only once pre-Covid-19 ,but as it is replaced my KTN for domestic, I know it is still valid. Even background checks were never as thorough as to do more than read a computer check. My advice is do not lie about anything and prepare to provide documentation when asked.
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
I already have a KTN “Known Traveler Number” but I want to apply for a Global Entry. I have a DUI on my record from 13 yrs ago. Do you think I would be wasting $100 by applying for the Global Entry? Thanks!
I would estimate that CBP would initially deny you. Once that happens, you could then decide to apply for reinstatement or reconsideration with the Ombudsman through your Trusted Traveler Profile. Keep in mind that corresponding with the Ombudsman is a a one-time only correspondence. Your first correspondence should be your best argument, rather than saying, ‘why was I denied?’ If you like, contact me before writing to the Ombudsman and I could help you submit a good argument.
I was mistaken when I stated I had a DUI from 13 yrs ago. I actually plead guilty to Reckless Driving and the conviction was 12 yrs ago. Thanks for replys.
I have 5 daughters ages 10, 8, 7, 6 and 1.5 years. We have been crossing the border nearly every day for 15 years. I have a DUI from 2001 and a petty theft from 2011. Both have been taken care of. I did go to jail for the petty theft and the last time I was in jail was around 2013. I have NEVER had any incident at the border in regards to tickets, fines, or anything otherwise.
I’m sure my girls would pass, but what would be your thoughts on the chance I will be approved too?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who has had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I applied on September of last year and just received a denial today. It states “due to immigration violation”. Before I became a green card holder I had DACA but was never arrested or have any record as such. Can this be appealed?
If you had DACA, you were out of status at one point, by definition. Similar to customs violations, immigration violations seem to remain in a person’s file. I do not believe such incidents expire on a person’s record. I just did a blog for Think Immigration where I discussed this issue. CBP needs to do a better job with people who have had old customs violations. See https://thinkimmigration.org/blog/2021/08/04/trusted-traveler-program-fumbles/
I have a minor in possession of alcohol from 2018 and they did actually handcuff me and bring me to jail. I plead no contest. Do you think they will deny my Global Entry or TSA pre-check request?
TSA is a separate agency. You can apply directly to their website.
I would estimate that CBP would initially deny you. Once that happens, you could then decide to apply for reinstatement or reconsideration with the Ombudsman through your Trusted Traveler Profile. Keep in mind that corresponding with the Ombudsman is a a one-time only correspondence. Your first correspondence should be your best argument, rather than saying, ‘why was I denied?’ If you like, contact me before writing to the Ombudsman and I could help you submit a good argument.
Hello! I currently have a SENTRI which will expire in 2026. I just got a ticket for driving without a license. Can my SENTRI be revoked because of the ticket? If it’s not revoked, will I have trouble when trying to renew?
If that is a criminal misdemeanor, then it could happen. That does not sound like a criminal incident, though.
I got a sentri lane violation ticket for accidentally going in the wrong lane and I was fined $5,000. Is there a likelihood that my global entry application will get denied?
Yes. I think that is likely.
If global entry was revoked for a failure to declare, is it likely that now applying for TSA pre-check will also be denied?
You should be able to qualify for TXA PreCheck by applying directly to them.
I was arrested for DUI-First Offence in Dec-2018. Subsequently the charge was amended to “reckless endangerment” and I was given “judicial diversion”; on completion of 11months 29 days my charges were dropped and records expunged. I received my green card in Aug 2020 and have applied for Global Entry in Sep 2021.. what are the chances of approval?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. My guess is that three years is not long enough of a wait for CBP. Other options include Mobile Passport, which is an app run by CBP that works almost as well as GE. You could apply directly to TSA PreCheck as well.
I received Probation before Judgement (PBJ) in 2009 and unfortunately another one in 2019 for DUIs. I currently hold a security clearance but they revoked my trusted traveler in 2019. I have been completely sober with nothing on my record for 3 years. Thoughts on ever getting it TT back? Is it worth waiting another 7 years to reapply? Might not even need it then.
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
Does a pretrial diversion count against you?
You should look at and obtain the certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Some courthouses require a guilty plea to grant diversion. That information should be in the transcripts.
Two federal counts (bank & wire fraud) stemming from a single case, single plea, sentenced together 17 years ago. Is GE completely out of question or are there options?
Hello Roman. If those were felony convictions, I would not like your chances. Other options include Mobile Passport, which is an app run by CBP that works almost as well as GE.
Hello, I was convicted for a felony roughly 15 years ago. I was arrested by CBP at the san ysidro port of entry for transportation of marijuana. I got the case expunged several years ago and have no other convictions. Is there a chance they would approve a Sentri / Nexus Pass?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction. I am unclear if it matters whether or not you expunged it or not. You probably should examine your case transcripts or minutes to be sure this was a felony conviction and that it had not later been changed to a misdemeanor. If you do decide to apply, I recommend obtaining certified minutes of the disposition.
Hi,
I plead guilty to Reckless Driving and the conviction was 12 yrs ago. Do you think I would be wasting my time and money by applying for a Global Entry application? I plan on doing allot of travel between the US and Ecuador.
I expect they would deny you initially. It sounds like you have a good reinstatement argument with the Ombudsman’s office. Let me know if I can help.
Hello,
I plead guilty to a Wet Reckless Driving in May 2019. I am still on probation, Is there any chance I could be approved for Global Entry?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. My guess is that two years is not long enough of a wait for CBP. Other options include Mobile Passport, which is an app run by CBP that works almost as well as GE. You could apply directly to TSA PreCheck as well.
Hi! I was taken into custody handcuffed for about 8 hours, it was a misunderstanding, the city wanted to charge me with a misdemeanor, but I ended up been charged with an infraction and community service. I am applying for a GE card, on the question about been arrested do I need to disclose this and answer yes?
That is an arrest. In addition, most states consider infractions to be criminal misdemeanors. You should look at and obtain the certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hello, I applied back in 2019 to Sentri Pass prog but got denied for not meeting requirements. Back in 2008I was detained by CBP for driving a vehicle with an ilegal alien. I was only detained and released less than 6 hours. No court, etc… I applied back in 2019 to Sentri Pass prog but got denied for not meeting requirements. Will I ever be approved for the program? is there anything I can do?
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. I just did a blog for Think Immigration where I discussed this issue. CBP needs to do a better job with people who have had old customs violations. See https://thinkimmigration.org/blog/2021/08/04/trusted-traveler-program-fumbles/
Would a reckless with a nolo contendere plea and adjudication withheld 2014 prevent me from getting a SENTRI pass? My application was conditionally approved and my interview is coming up soon. Do I need to disclose at my interview?
That sounds like a criminal conviction to me. Declare and submit certified copies of the disposition at the interview.
9 years, 10 months ago I was arrested for public intoxication. at that time I was young and believed when the officers told me to pay the fine and go on with my day. It will not affect your record since it is a misdemeanor the officers said. I did not go to court or speak to a judge. Years later, I applied and was granted a SENTRI card. years later I applied again and was again granted the card. Months later I got an email stating that my SENTRI was revoked because such violation (Class C Mis). Should I reapply or ask for reconsideration? After that situation my record has been perfect.
You could consider applying for reconsideration if that is your only incident.
My global entry got revoked back in February. I only noticed it now. The only possible thing that happened might have been a police incident report that never led to charges or arrest? Do they look at incident reports? I have gone ahead and re applied as it my Global entry expired as of September anyway. Any thoughts as to my chances of approval?
You probably should conduct a criminal background check to properly answer CBP’s questions.
waaay back in 1976 California reduced simple marijuana possession to an infraction. unfortunately in 77 i had a gung-ho police officer point a gun at me and arrest me for having a joint in my mouth. had to go to court, pled nolo, paid the $100 fine. CA law as that everything disappears 2 years later barring any additional convictions. i checked the FBI and CA law enforcement and they have no record of it. No arrests, no convictions.
Private “credit checking” pre-employment databases do show an arrest.
So when I apply for Global Entry, do I say yes or no to arrests, conviction, etc?
Thanks!
You should declare all criminal incidents regardless of whether they were expunged. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I applied for Global Entry last week. I had a misdemeanor conviction for theft less than $300 about 20 years ago. I filed and was granted an expungement in 2006. When completing my GE application I followed the advice given by my attorney 15 years ago and listed “no” on the question about any prior convictions. It was only today, when I printed the application to add to my file for my interview that I noticed the follow-up question asking if I had any expunged records. I did not detail that on the application. Should I immediately declare it when I go to my interview or wait to see if they ask about it during the interview? I had hoped a foolish mistake I regret every day – a misdemeanor 20 years ago – wouldn’t disqualify me outright but I am afraid that because I didn’t declare it on the application it might. I just want to approach in a way that gives me the beat chance.
You should declare all criminal incidents regardless of whether they were expunged. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
If someone declared their 15 year old expunged petty theft misdemeanor truthfully at the time of interview with court documents and got the global entry, do they need to redeclare it again in the questionnaire / interview at the time of renewal? OR at the time of renewal does the questionnaire about crime etc. pertain ONLY to the last 5 years since original global entry was issued because everything before that was already declared and global entry issued?
Questions about crimes apply regardless of when they are committed.
Mr. Manley thank you so much for your answer. I had declared the misdemeanor from 2003 in my initial GE application 5 years ago. I got conditional approval within days and at the time of the interview the officer didn’t even look at any documents ( said she had all the information and was actually very very nice) and I was approved. Got GE card right away. Now I applied for renewal and as you say I truthfully again answered yes to the misdemeanor since no time limit was mentioned in the question. It has been 5 months and the application is still in pending review status. Not sure if this means eventual denial although I am confused about getting approved the first time when the incident was 15 years old vs now when it is 20 years old.
Do you think I will get approved?
At this point even if I get an approval I wish I get an interview to attend since I want to ask the officer if I need to answer Yes to this question every 5 years during renewal till my dying day?
I have no control or opinion on processing times. Contact customer service if you believe your case has delays.
I was arrested for a DUII in 2016. I immediately entered and successfully completed the offered diversion program that was 12 months long. After the diversion program in 2017 the court filed a judgment to dismiss the complaint with prejudice. I have copies of the courts decision documents to dismiss the case. I have had no priors or anything after. Am I likely to be denied for Global Entry if I apply 7 years later? Do I have better chances at qualifying for TSA Precheck?
Mr. Manley, your professional insight would be greatly appreciated.
I have been considering applying for a Global Entry card, but given the TSA’s policy of denying the application based upon any criminal record regardless of how old or how trivial, I am wondering if doing so would be a waste of time.
In 1971 I was issued a misdemeanor citation for a Feb 1971 court appearance. I was neither taken into the police station nor fingerprinted, photographed, or booked. The original citation was for misdemeanor shop lifting, but the charge was lowered to misdemeanor trespassing. I paid a $50 fine and was given 2 years’ probation. Since that time, I have had a clean legal record including no DUI’s nor any issues with US Customs or Immigration.
Three months ago I requested my criminal record reports from the FBI, California DOJ, and the local sheriffs dept. All 3 agencies issued me letters stating that I no reportable criminal history. I also contacted Superior Court and they indicated to me that they had no record of my past court appearance. They did state that all misdemeanor cases that received a monetary fine were reported to the California DOJ. Since I was fined $50, I decided to contact the DOJ. In a phone conversation the DOJ agent stated that the DOJ only uses fingerprint records to report criminal history. The agent was not aware of using written records to report criminal history.
So, my questions to you are:
Would it be safe for me to state on my Global Pass application that I do not have a criminal record?
Or should I indicate that I do have a low-level misdemeanor on my record and to hope for mercy from the interviewer?
Thanking You in advance for your opinion.
Jason
Would a restraining order taken out against the card holder after Sentri was granted be a reason for the pass to be revoked?
I was denied because my wife overstayed her visa before we got married. Should I appeal this?
That is a tough question. CBP has denied SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. CBP appears to be denying on this basis based on your spouse’s immigration violation. If she is a citizen by now, you might argue harmless error at the interview.
I just renewed the 2nd time Sentri card membership , upon arrival to US custom walking border in San ysidro , San Diego Boarder two days ago , I had my cellphone in my hand ,officer who was sitting in kiosk yelled at me from far , when he was reviewing other sentri passengers documents and said you used your cell , you do not see the sign , I’ll take your card , when I entered for inspection , I said I did not used it was in my hand , he took me to another room and two officers there scanned my new card and returned it to me and said you can go, it’s 2nd day that it happened , I checked my SENTRI account online , so far no revocation , will they revoke my membership ? Can I appeal it ?
Thanks
If CBP has not denied by now, you are probably fine.
My sentri was revoked in September 2020 and I was given no reason. I went to the interview with the supervisor and she asked me a bunch of questions and asked if I knew the people she mentioned (most of them were my family members, and a few I did not recognize). Apparently, someone did something although she couldn’t tell me what. She said I had to “investigate myself”, and fix it. My family and I have always taken care of ourselves in this type of thing, so it wasn’t us. My mom used to live in a room in a house that the owner gave the address to anyone. Someone apparently did something bad, I assume? I’ve written my reconsideration and I have still been denied. What can I do?
That is a tough question. CBP has denied SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess. Look at the addresses you have used and see if anyone using that address has had any brushes with law enforcement or possible immigration violations. Perhaps your local congressional delegate can help.
Hello! I was arrested in 2006 in college for an MIP and giving a false name. I was able to use my youthful offender. I let them know in my interview. Now they are requesting court documents. Do you think I have a shot? or should I request to have them expunged? thanks!
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Hopefully, the CBP officer reviewing your case will approve. If not, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
I received the Case Action Summary stating youthful offender granted for a Minor in Possession and giving a false name. Should I bother getting these expunged or just submit them as is?I figure they already have access to these files.
If you were charged as a minor, ie. juvenile detention, that would or should not be considered an adult criminal conviction.
I had a citation of public drunkenness and another of criminal mischief. Not even misdemeanors. This was back in 2012. Should I still apply? If I do apply, should I list those in the application?
You should declare all criminal incidents regardless of whether they were expunged. I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
This is the second time my sentri card was taking, the first time it was for a personal clash, when I cross the border they ask me, what I have to declare from Mexico?, if nothing, I say nothing, 99.9999 I’m on my way, if I do I always declare it, This one agent was screwing with me and I did call him a f…Pocho, he toke my card, I said I would not live the booth intel I could talk to the supervisor, the supervisor come over and they were going back and forth of who was going to keep my sentri card? (like kids, that’s not professional) and finally the agent give my sentri card to the supervisor, he told the agent he would take care of it, the supervisor told me to be quits and walk me over to secondary, (maybe the buddy system?) where they lifted my sentri card, I got it back, now if I see a problem coming, I say just send me to secondary to avoid a problem, which don’t happen, its rear, I keep my sentri card in my work truck, so I don’t loss it, I had to go to the hospital for a biopsy I’m an American who lives in Tijuana, that day Monday there was lots of diversion in the street close to the border, so I was already stressed trying to make my hospital appointment, and running late, I missed the first appointment, my wife had to drive me with her car because I needed a driver for the sedation, I realized I lift my card in my truck at home while in line and I thought well no problem they could look my up on their system with my D.L. they said it’s not that easy I know that’s a Lier so they lifted my card and know I’m revoked my renewal is in November 21 I have never had a serious volition like smuggling or contraband are unauthorizing presenters no criminal record not even a parking ticket it I know they would take my card even in line I would have back up and returned home, I’m justified any of this but think its way to punitive, especially a possible 10 year wait, its not bank robbery or manslaughter and I knew the sentri lane is a privilege so is a driver’s license but they don’t take that away for that
For an initial SENTRI violation, you should be able to request a phone appointment with a supervisor. I do not know how to make that request, but it is possible to get such an appointment. Discuss the matter with the supervisor.
(Spelling corrections) This is the second time my sentri card was taking, the first time it was for a personal clash, when I cross the border they ask me, what I have to declare from Mexico?, if nothing, I say nothing, 99.9999 I’m on my way, if I do I always declare it, This one agent was screwing with me and I did call him a f…Pocho, he toke my card, I said I would not leave the booth until I could talk to the supervisor, the supervisor come over and they were going back and forth of who was going to keep my sentri card? (like kids, that’s not professional) and finally the agent give my sentri card to the supervisor, he told the agent he would take care of it, the supervisor told me to be quit and walk me over to secondary, (maybe the buddy system?) where they lifted my sentri card, would not even allow me to explain anything, I got it back, now if I see a problem coming, I say just send me to secondary to avoid a problem, which don’t happen, its rear, I keep my sentri card in my work truck, so I don’t loss it, I had to go to the hospital for a biopsy I’m an American who lives in Tijuana, that day Monday there was lots of diversion in the street close to the border, so I was already stressed trying to make my hospital appointment, and running late, I missed the first appointment, my wife had to drive me with her car because I needed a driver for the sedation, I realized I lift my card in my truck at home while in line and I thought well no problem, they could look me up on their system with my D.L. they said it’s not that easy, I know that’s a Lie, so a few day later they lifted my card and know I’m revoked, my renewal is in November 26 I have never had a serious volition like smuggling or contraband are unauthorizing passengers, no criminal record not even a parking ticket, if I know they would take my card, I would have back up out of the line and returned home, I’m not justifying any of this, I think its way to punitive, especially a possible 10 year wait, it’s not bank robbery or manslaughter and I knew the sentri lane is a privilege, so is a driver’s license but they don’t take that away for that
My brother just found out that his estranged wife filed a DV Prevention case seeking a restraining order. They were already separated at the time and my brother had no contact with her, which is why he wasn’t even aware of it until now ( over 4 years later). The case was dismissed. Does he have any chance of getting Sentri? Also, if he applies and is denied because of the dismissed case, can that open the opportunity for Sentri to be revoked for my family who already has it? Many thanks for your help!
Reading the comments, it basically seems like 2 offenses no matter how far back (10+) or minor, is enough cause for immediate denial, correct? Should this be caught in the pre-interview phase?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I applied for global entry in 2018 and was denied (You have been convicted and/or arrested for a criminal offense
At this moment you do not meet the requirements for this program due to 2011 misdemeanor conviction) it was a dui. I just reapplied. What do you think my chances are of getting approved.
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Hopefully, the CBP officer reviewing your case will approve. If not, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
I was charged with petty theft in 1980 – I am now 65. Would that incident still be on my record? How do I get a FBI background check? I am retiring and would like the Global Entry Pass.
Thank you,
John Stilwell
https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks
I was denied and they kept giving me excuses so I went to court and got my records for 13 years ago disposition for 2 misdemeanor and even then with a copy from the court I had to go back and get the head clerk to write a letter it was amazing an official court document and still gave me a hard time. After that they tell me about the dui 18 years ago so I get a copy of that to prove I complied with the court if I would have read dui affects application I wouldn’t have waisted my money. When they email me back for a record that I was arrested in PA when I wasn’t I was actually pulled over but no ticket or charges. I called every police station and in PA where I was pulled over and even got letters saying I have no cases or charges pending or current. I just don’t see how a dui over 10 years ago has any affect to getting approved I’m not flying the plane
I share your frustrations. I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction. So, if you only have one, you probably have a good argument for reinstatement.
Hello, I was detained by law enforcement after a misunderstanding during an argument with my partner where I called the cops. They detained me based on comments from my partner that were untrue. I went to the station they took my fingerprints and I sat in a hallway and was released. They gave me a “detention only” certificate stating the incident wouldn’t be considered an arrest just a detainment. The DA declined to bring any charges and I never received a charge and never went to court. Would this affect my global entry in any way? Would I need to report this as an “arrest” even thought I was told it wasn’t? This was two years ago after I already had my global entry for some time. Thank you.
I would report this as an arrest/detention. In addition to the “detention only” letter from the police, I would go to the records department of the applicable courthouse. They can run an index-based search of your name and date of birth. You should ask for a certified letter of the results of that. Good luck with the renewal.
If I have a felon, does the wife automatically disqualify for sentri?
I believe a felony conviction would automatically disqualify you. If it was reduced to a misdemeanor and this took place many years ago, that could be an argument in a reinstatement request.
Hi,
I have GE from 2017 and was arrested for DV but ultimately got it reduced to disturbance of peace infraction. My renewal is coming up next year (can start the process 1 year before). Would I be denied? I have heard that some people lost their existing GE because of the record.
Disturbing the peace is a criminal violation. So, yes, I believe CBP would deny a renewal. You should look at and obtain the certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
If I was charged with assault and took a plea and obeyance. Meaning it was dismissed with prejudice but I plead guilty would that disqualify me? I was never taken to jail or finger printed.
CBP can deny for any criminal conviction.
If I understand you correctly, if you have had a DUI within 10 years, you’re not eligible for Global Entry. It doesn’t matter whether you have completed probation, had a boderline BAC of 0.8, and had your record expunged. CBP isn’t going to consider your case unless 10 years have passed. Is that right?
Ten years is not an official policy. CBP will look at the facts and circumstances behind any criminal violation no matter how long ago it took place.
Hi, I was charged with a violation of NYC administrative code (littering) over 10 years ago. I was told as it was similar as a traffic violation (I paid a $100 fine) so this is not clear if I should mention it. Should I? Or should i just try my luck as disclosing it would that disqualify me anyway?
As I understand, CBP is focused on criminal, customs, and immigration violations.
Hi, in your opinion should non criminal offense be disclosed as well or are they only asking about criminal offense? I was cited for a violation of an administrative code a long time ago. Thanks.
As I understand, CBP is focused on criminal, customs, and immigration violations.
HI, I got a DUI in 2011 applied for global entry in 2020 and was denied at my interview. Do you recommend going through the process again? It’s been 10 years since the DUI. Thank you
Consider re-applying if it has been ten years. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I have a sentry, days ago my son received a DUI. We have the same address. Can this affect me?
Yes. CBP could potentially deny or revoke under a ‘close association as an indication of risk’ grounds.
I had 2 juvenile misdemeanors, age 15 and 16. One for petty shoplifting and another for riding a motorcycle along railroad right-of-way. This was 50 years ago. Clean record since. Should I disclose? Are juvenile records expunged? Thank you.
If you were charged as a minor, ie. a juvenile detention, that would not be considered an adult criminal conviction.
If you were charged as a minor, ie. juvenile detention, that would not be considered an adult criminal conviction.
In 1971 I was issued a misdemeanor citation for shop lifting, but the charge was lowered to trespassing. I was neither taken into the police station nor fingerprinted, photographed, or booked. I have had a clean record since that time.
The FBI, California DOJ, and San Diego Sheriff’s office recently issued me letters stating that I had no reportable criminal history. I also contacted the Superior Court and they indicated to me that they had no record of my past court appearance. I decided to contact the DOJ and in a phone conversation the DOJ agent stated that the DOJ only uses fingerprint records to report criminal history. The agent was not aware of using any other form of written records to report criminal history.
Should I indicate that I do have a low-level misdemeanor on my record and to hope for mercy from the interviewer? Do you think that I have a chance to get OK’d for the Global Entry pass?
Cheers – Jason
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the courthouse has destroyed it as an old record, you should still get some form of certified index based search of the records.
Hello,
I had a customs violation (failing to declare an item) and paid a $300 fine in 2007. Eight years later in 2015, I’ve applied for NEXUS and was approved. I’ve disclosed this violation during the interview. I’ve applied for a renewal in 2020 and got revoked citing my one time custom violation from 14 years ago. I’ve appealed and got conditional approval. I have an interview today. Any tips for the interview for an approval? Thanks.
Hopefully, you succeeded.
I am conditionally approved for global entry and have my interview soon. When I was 17 I had a petty theft incident and was arrested in the state of IL, I was charged as a minor with an ordinance violation, it was expunged. How should I answer the question in my interview “Have you ever been arrested or had charges that were expunged or removed?” Should I still answer yes even though I was minor and everything was expunged? Would Global Entry be able to find this even though I was a minor when it happened?
If you were charged as a minor, ie. a juvenile detention, that would or should not be considered an adult criminal conviction.
How did it go? Im in a similar situation but for me it was graffiti, but it was sealed or whatever. Im wondering how they treat these petty misdemeanors for juveniles.
I was convicted of an OWVI (operating while visibly impaired) misdemeanor in MI in 2010. The probation was completed in late 2011. Is the 10 year rule from when the conviction was or when the probation was completed? I recently applied and it’s been 11 years since the conviction but a couple weeks shy of 10 years of completion of the probation.
Do they typically ask for paperwork on the conviction/probation at the interview?
*apologies for the double post, the first post was accidentally a reply to someone else’s comment which is buried way up
Ten years is not an official policy. CBP will look at the facts and circumstances behind any criminal violation no matter how long ago it took place. CBP will ultimately look at the facts and circumstances of any violation. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hello John, I went through the Sentri lane at San Ysidro last week and the automatic sliding doors on my van malfunctioned. They put me in Secondary and read me the riot act telling me that if I go through Sentri again with my automatic rear doors unable to open, they would take my Sentri away. I have since been able to get one of the doors to function and provide access to the rear seats of the vehicle. Will this be enough to appease the CBP or do I have to get the other one done as well…repairs are expensive. Thank you for any input you may have.
You should speak to a SENTRI supervisor about this.
I was not able to use my Global entry at ORD airport (August 2021). The Global Entry system didn’t process my entry and instructed me to go see the passport officer via the regular passport control line. After going through the passport control (Had no problem), I went to customs. The officer at the customs was very nice (Kudos to him) and told me that I was flagged for carrying curry leaves. Thats when I remembered that last year (2020) in November when I was coming to the US via EWR the officer had told me that dried curry leaves were not allowed (Honest mistake on my part) and let me go with a warning. But it seems that she blocked my Global entry. This has only happened once in my long international travel history.
Will I ever be able to use my Global Entry? Login into my GOES account I dont see anything about it being revoked and it just shows the Green Approved.
Thanks.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I had a felony theft 1st degree charge in 2000. I had It vacated in 2011. Would I be eligible for Global Entry since the charge shows it was vacated?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction. Vacating is much different from expungement. I would check with your post-conviction criminal attorney to see what the effect of that is legally.
I had an infraction with customs in 2014, my friends bought tostestorone boosters from the pharmacy, and I even declared it with cbp not knowing it was illegal, but they sent us to secondary. They put me under driver, I applied in 2015 for the sentri and the denied it. How long do I have to wait before I can apply again. I currently have tsa pre check,and a clean record not even a misdemeanor.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I was arrested for DUI which was reduced to negligent driving to the first degree (misdemeanor) 5 years ago in Washington State. Will this disqualify me from getting approved for Global Entry?
Yes. Misdemeanors are criminal violations.
I was convicted of misdemeanor battery in 2006, completed probation, all required things, and had the record expunged in 2011. Would this result in a denial for Sentri?
I do not have any other arrests. I have been cited for driving without a license (paid the fees from an old ticket in another county that I had forgotten about and got it all cleared) and they attempted to charge me with another misdemeanor but that case was dismissed due to the fact that it was not me (mistaken identity). I have documents from the courts proving all of this. I am nervous because it is a 3 hour drive for my interview so I would hate to do that and get denied.
Thoughts? Sidenote, I have a federal job and I am bonded with the state of CA.
Yes. Misdemeanors are criminal violations. CBP will use its discretion with a one-time old violation. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You might have a good reinstatement case.
I had two convictions over ten years ago. They have both been expunged and were misdemeanors. Do you think this will pose any issues when applying for global entry?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
Does my info on my IRS taxes have to coincide with the info I give to CBP for my SENTRI? Will they corroborate data with the IRS? Asking specifically because as a 1099 I use a USA address for my taxes because of home office declaration but I live in Tijuana with my boyfriend.
And my bf got convicted over 15 years ago for smuggling marihuana into the US from Mexico, he was in jail for 6 months, his VISA was revoked, kicked out of the US and has never applied for his VISA again. Would I get denied for SENTRI if I declare I live with him?
CBP generally does not like it if you are using an address you do not live at. Also, CBP has denied SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis.
I was stopped at a Border Patrol checkpoint and a drug dog alerted the officer, they found medical marijuana, presented my medical recommendation but they confiscated the drugs in fall of 2011… A few years ago I applied for sentri and was denied because of it. There was never a ticket or follow up investigation. Would I be eligible for global entry?
I was approved for Global Entry in October 2015 after the incident referred to below occurred (May 2013). I recently applied for renewal (December 2021), but this time I was denied for the following reason.
“You have been convicted and/or arrested for a criminal offense
2013 withheld adjudication of DUI charge is considered equivalent to conviction for Global Entry. A single misdemeanor conviction(withheld adjudication) within ten years of application is disqualifying.”
I admitted to sufficient facts on 05/28/2013 but my case was continued without a finding for 1 year while I was on probation (under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts). I provided documentation to the CBP showing that the charge was dismissed on 05/28/2014.
I understand that it isn’t possible to apply while under probation with “withheld adjudication”, but is withheld adjudication really treated as a conviction by the CBP even if the charge has been dismissed? Is it worthwhile for me to submit a reconsideration request?
Thank you for any insight you can provide.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. Here they are saying ten years, which I have never seen written by CBP.
Hello, my son (then 7 yrs. old) and I had SENTRI, that was 13 years ago. I used to cross the border every day to see my mom at Tijuana, she was sick at the time. Most of the time we spent the night with her. One time we crossed the border, the officer told me that he would revoke the cards because I crossed too often and I had lied about living in the US. At the time I had other concerns, my son was on the process of being diagnosed with Autism, and I did not even try to prove them wrong. I just kept crossing in the regular lines, until I found someone to take care of my mother, and then I stopped crossing the border. I was a US resident at the time, about 5 yrs. ago I became a US citizen.
We have crossed maybe twice in the last 10 years, mostly because of the long lines and since my son has Autism, it is very difficult for him to wait that long.
Since COVID, my mother has not been able to come to the US, she is 86 yrs. old, and I am considering reapplying for SENTRI. I am just concerned about it because when they sent me the email about revoking our cards they stated the reason as “Lying in the application”.
Is that (lying in the application) a reason for them to deny the cards, or should I still try to apply again?
Thank you.
Declare all relevant facts and addresses when you re-apply.
My wife had a DWI in 2014 and case closed and plead guilty on 2017. Wife was denied due to this conviction ended up only in 6 month probation.
We went yesterday to get my daughters she is 6 month old, sentri and was granted.
Officer CBP mentioned my wife could do a reconsideration of the denial, due to the fact some times she has to do trips across the border into mexico and Port of entries lines are about 4 hrs long.
Do any of you have a reconsideration letter template?
Thanks in advance
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. I do not have a template to provide you as each request is fact-specific.
Good afternoon, in 2011 I applied for the SENTRI but with the family (my father, mother and I), on the day of the interview my mother passed by and they gave her the card, when they interviewed me and my father, they asked us if we knew one person, who is my sister, who has had legal problems but we were unaware of those problems because she did not live with us, she is married, when we told her that she is my sister they denied us the sentri and took my mother’s card, they did not let us explain anything .
I applied for the SENTRI again in 2018 and in the denial letter it stated reasons: It does not meet the eligibility requirements of the program.
I applied again in 2021 and again in the denial letter it stated reasons: It does not meet the eligibility requirements of the program, but this time it has more information by saying that if I want to reconsider I must ¨Summary of information to further clarify a record or explain an incident or arrest¨ but I have not committed any crime. How can I clarify that I was unaware of my sister’s legal situation?
Thank you for your time.
I have a question regarding GE renewals. I received a reckless driving ticket (Virginia Uniform Summons) in VA (speeding 83 in 70 mph zone) which is a class 1 misdemeanor charge in VA. I was not convicted and was able to get the charge amended to defective equipment which is only a traffic infraction and no longer a criminal charge.
On the application, there is a question re: Have you ever been arrested or had charges that were expunged or removed? If yes please describe.
I left the question blank because I didn’t think the ticket qualified as an arrest ( only received a ticket and never taken into custody). In the interview, do I disclose this information as I’m unsure how to proceed? Thanks!
Misdemeanors are criminal violations. If you were charged with a misdemeanor the safe bet is to state that, explain what happened, and provide certified copies of the court disposition.
My wife and I had an agricultural fine for bringing a salami in from Italy about 10 years ago. She was also told not to leave thje country when we applied for her green card and then told she had overstayed her visa. That was about 20 years ago. Is there a chance we can still get GE or should we not bother? Thanks!
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. Ten years might be long enough for CBP, but the only way to know is to apply and, of course, declare the incident
Is an arrest for minor possession of alcohol in 2021 that resulted in a dismissal a basis for denial or must the arrest result in a conviction? If an arrest is enough, what are the odds of a successful appeal with only an arrest for a minor offense?
Misdemeanors are criminal violations. If the case was thrown out in trial, you likely do not have a criminal violation over the incident. But, if you plead to something, you likely had a criminal violation, regardless of whether or not you expunged the incident later.
Hello, I was wrongfully arrested in 2020 with a misdemeanor indecent exposure charge. The prosecutor enrolled me in pretrial diversion program (with no guilt). After completion of the program they dismissed the case. This doesn’t considered conviction. Should I have a chance to apply and receive approval or wait for 10 years?
Misdemeanors are criminal violations. If the case was thrown out in trial, you likely do not have a criminal violation over the incident. But, if you plead to something, you likely had a criminal violation, regardless of whether or not you expunged the incident later. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I applied for and received by Global Entry in 2016. I am in the process of filling out the renewal application and noticed the question around “have you been arrested even if expunged”. I don’t remember this from the 2016 application or I would have filled it in.
I have never been convicted of a crime, but was arrested 20+ years ago for a minor infraction (was a passenger in a car), which was expunged.
I don’t remember this being a question in 2016 – only answering that I had never been convicted of a crime (which I have never been).
Is the “arrest” question new since 2016. I don’t remember answering and don’t want to fill it in it I left blank last time or leave it blank if I filled it in last time (but I am almost sure there was no arrest question”.
Help!
I have no records of the application questions or their timeline. Misdemeanors are criminal violations. If the case was thrown out in trial, you likely do not have a criminal violation over the incident. But, if you plead to something, you likely had a criminal violation, regardless of whether or not you expunged the incident later.
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I applied for Global Entry and went to the interview Jun 2021, I was not asked to bring in any documents and didn’t. It had been conditionally approved. I went to the interview was not asked any specific questions but was denied after that meeting. We didn’t review the application nor discuss that I needed court docs of my misdemeanor retail theft conviction in 1994 and attempted in 2010 (I was stopped as I exited with an item in my cart) but charged nonetheless. Would it be worth trying again and bringing the certified docs to the appointment if conditionally approved? I heard the new administration in the US there may be new guidelines?
You should declare all criminal incidents regardless of whether they were expunged. I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I had a customs incident at the Canadian border probably 8 years ago (not sure when, it may be 10 years ago) and had to pay a fine. I had declared a gift but they said it was the wrong price. Is there a way to look up my record and see the date and details? I wanted to apply for Global Entry. Grateful for any advice.
A FOIA request could provide details on this incident.
Hello John. In 1995 I was convicted of indecent exposure. In 1996 the case dismissed and expunged. While it has been 27 years since the conviction and I’ve been lawful ever since I’m curious if you have seen the CBP deny based on the type of one conviction regardless of how long ago it occurred. Thx
CBP can and does deny due to old convictions, no matter how old. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi,
In 2017 I received a ticket for a city ordinance violation (no arrest/misdemeanor – just paid a fine to have it removed from my record). I’m checking “No” for the “Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense in the United States or any other country?” But do I need to disclose this ticket in the “Have you ever been arrested or had charges that were expunged or removed? If yes please describe.” section?
We may have communicated offline already. I would check with a criminal attorney in your area to see if this is criminal or not.
I have a criminal record from 30 years ago. I have a TSA pre-check but was denied for Global Entry. Do they use the same standards? Will my TSA pre-check provide me an argument for getting my Global Entry?
TSA uses its own standards. I have had clients who were denied to Trusted Traveler but applied successfully for TSA PreCheck.
I have a public intox from 2018. I knew I was drunk, so I asked a bartender for a ride home. They got the wrong address and dropped me off before I knew what was going on, so I knocked on the door of the home I was at and asked for help. They called the cops. Would I be denied global entry for this lone misdemeanor? Looking at the Global Entry website, they list much more serious offenses as reasons for denial.
Misdemeanors are criminal violations. If you were charged with a misdemeanor the safe bet is to state that, explain what happened, and provide certified copies of the court disposition. I would expect they would deny you.
Was arrested on spring break in college back in 2009 for drinking under the age of 21. It was expunged from my record in exchange for some community service hours. Applied for GE and disclosed “underage drinking in college was expunged” – not thinking much of it. It’s been close to 3 months since I submitted my application and I still haven’t heard anything. My fiancee also applied this weekend and was already approved for an interview. After googling about expunged records, I’m starting to feel like I’ll be denied. Bummer.
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I got my global entry revoked in the beginning of 2020, I believe it was because of an incident that happened when I was at the Canadian border at Washington State. I was the only one with Global Entry and I took the fast lane to enter back into the US, but I also had a rental car and my two folks, who didn’t have Global Entry. It was a cold rainy night and we just wanted to get back into the US to go to our relatives house.
I tried to apply shortly after about two times and got denied twice. I tried to get information about the incident but they never really gave me an answer of what my violation was. Other than that, I have no criminal record, or anything on my background.
Is there a way to get reconsidered?
Everyone in the vehicle has to have Trusted Traveler Status. If you had people who were not in the program with you that could be the basis of revocation from the program. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I had an interview in October 2021, was denied due to a robbery that was wobbled down to grand theft misdemeanor and expunged. I appealed that the misdemeanor case was later reopened, vacated and dismissed and sent a court document as evidence, but was denied again as of 1/25/2022. Denial said I could use FOIA to find out why I was denied since the second time appeal answer did not provide any explanation this time around.
Please advise
I believe a felony conviction would automatically disqualify you, even if it was later reduced to a misdemeanor and/or expunged.
I had a Reckless driving conviction in 2014 that was later expunged from my record. Would this guarantee denial of Global Entry? Also, since the conviction was expunged, how am I to go about getting original copies of the court documents? I have my expungement letter, but they GE has requested initial court documents. My expungement letter states that original documents will have been destroyed.
I applied in October and got a denial letter today and the reason stated “Other you do not meet program eligibility requirements” nothing more. I’ve never had any run ins with the law I currently have TSA precheck no immigration violation I travel frequently so I don’t understand my denial. I applied for a reconsideration but I don’t know what to do from there if im denied again
I got denied yesterday with no true reason given outside of other and that I did not meet the program eligibility requirements. Ive never had any trouble with the law or had any issues at the border ever. So I don’t know what to do. I did request for a reconsideration but I had no documents to attach as no true reason was given. Im thinking maybe I typed in something incorrect. Could you point me in the right direction please. If I am denied again could I then appeal again or is that final?
Hi, I recently got married and got my green card. When I became a permanent resident my wife and I applied for global entry since we travel quite a lot. We were both approved and everything seemed fine. We traveled a lot and used the pre check included without any issues. However, we left the country in the beginning of January and a couple days after I got an email saying my GE had been revoked. Did not have any issues on the international trip to warrant this… I submitted a reconsideration request but am wondering how long until that is reviewed and the likelihood of it being reinstated… thank you
I had global entry for about 3 years and suddenly I got a notice that it had been revoked. I couldn’t find out why (despite many attempts), so I reapplied. I just found out that I got denied due to a prior customs or agriculture violation. I’ve never been aware of any issues with customs or agriculture in the past, and definitely not in the time I have had global entry. I have never been questioned or fined or anything. I have no clue what the issue is or how I can resolve what I can only imagine is a misunderstanding or false record. What can I do?
A Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA’’) request could provide details on this incident.
Hi, I was pulled over for DUI in 1992. Was convicted of reckless driving and had it expunged. I have an Global Entry in March. I disclosed all this on my application. Conditionally approved. I went back to the court in Indiana and they cannot provide me any records of the case? Thoughts on chance for success?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the court has purged the records, you should ask for a certified index-based search of cases in the court. That should confirm that the old records were purged. You should get a copy of their purging policies (ie. What sorts of cases does the court purge). Hopefully, the CBP officer reviewing your case will approve. If not, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
I have a dui 15yrs ago would I get denied for Sentri
You will likely be denied. If this was your only law enforcement/CBP incident, you might have a good reinstatement possibility.
My global entry is expiring this year so I submitted a renewal application and received both a denial and revocation notice due to a customs violation. But I was not aware I had a violation nor have any issues I can recall! I submitted a FOIA request from CBP- is this the only way to get documentation of whatever violation they have on record? How long should I expect it to take?
A Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA’’) request could provide details on this incident. CBP does not release processing times for FOIA.
Hello, I am in the process of applying for Global Entry. I have a petit larceny from 2008. Will my application be denied?
You will likely be denied. If this was your only law enforcement/CBP incident, you might have a good reinstatement possibility.
I had an incident crossing the Otay border last year in October 23 2021 in my car
It was my 1st time crossing Otay border and I had a cbp officer who didn’t guide me well .. I was sent to Inspection but I didn’t go to Inspection I went straight thinking it was that way I had 7 CBP officers run down to get me with. My car and i backed up and finally went to Inspection after that day I was just getting sent to Inspection everyday It is going to be 10 months already with going to Inspection and I had nothing in my car I just went the wrong way and didn’t know where to go..would this effect me in getting the sentri if it was an incident?
i got a speeding ticket back in 2019, will this ticket affect my eligibility for the sentri program? this is the only interaction with the police, i tried to contest it but i didnt win, should i go ahead and pay the fine or traffic school?
Speeding is not a civil rather than criminal issue unless it turned into a criminal misdemeanor. You should take your court records to be on the safe side.
I had a violation of law for firecrackers I bought at walmart in PA and brought to NY back in 2002 , I voluntarily disclosed this information . A violation is not a criminal offense in NY . i had my interview today and the officer asked I send in a disposition form from the court and did not APPROVE me at interview, in your opinion will I be denied ?
It might be a federal violation, rather than a state one. I am not familiar with that type of violation, however. If you were not approved at the interview, you were likely denied.
Check your profile to be sure.
My wife went for her interview today . She never changed her out of state drivers license over to our current state. She does spend summers , weekends and winter breaks at the family farm. The officer gave her 30 days to change her drivers license to our current state. Is this normal ?
I have heard of CBP officers making an issue out of the applicant’s address.
Hi, I was arrested for an OUI in Massachusetts (Feb 2020) but received a continuance without a finding (CWOF) in Sep 2020 (delayed due to COVID) so I have no conviction. This is the only offense I’ve ever had. My global entry is expiring this summer and I wanted to renew it. Will the CWOF cause them to decline my application?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hello, my husband just applied for Global Entry and we are waiting to see if he gets approved. About 40 years ago, he committed a felony, served time. He got his records expunged years ago. He has been a law abiding citizen and business owner. If he gets denied do we have any recourse of action and will it effect my approval.
I believe a felony conviction would automatically disqualify you, even if it was later reduced to a misdemeanor and/or expunged. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
i got a denied over
You have been convicted and/or arrested for a criminal offense
Applicant is not eligible for the Trusted Traveler Program due to criminal record
However my disposition was placed on file w/o finding no conviction. Based on a dispute with my own brother that they originally charged as simple assaults mutual combat
Ten years is not an official rule or policy. CBP will ultimately look at the facts and circumstances of any violation. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi I have been reading the comment section here and am curious about someone having a felony offense as a minor in 2006 would be affected in application for the trusted traveler program?
I also have a misdemeanor from 2013 for receiving stolen property (i forgot to report it in my application because i pleaded no contest and did the conditional probation, completely oblivious to the fact it was on my record), that conviction was expunged in 2018. i applied to SENTRI in 2017 and was denied due to not stating the Misdemeanor. do you think I should be ok to apply for GE even when they told me to wait 10 years to apply again?
You have been convicted and/or arrested for a criminal offense
Applicant is not eligible for the Trusted Traveler Program due to criminal record
I was not physically arrested but in New Hampshire the charge is considered arrest. So i sent them the disposition from court with a W/O finding non guilty. It is now currently being annulled. What else can i do if this is the only charge i have even though i was not
I had a misdemeanor conviction in Connecticut in 2010, that was ultimately pardoned and expunged. The pardon letter specifically states: “Congratulations, as you are now legally able to truthfully state you have never been arrested or convicted
of a crime in the state of Connecticut.” At the same time, CBP says you should disclose any convictions even if the were sealed or expunged. Should I disclose the conviction and subsequent pardon? Or, as my lawyer suggests, since I can truthfully state that I´ve never been convicted just leave it out of the application? By the way, an FBI background check comes back 100% clean. Thank you.
Hello, I had a misdemeanor conviction in Connecticut in 2010, that was ultimately pardoned and expunged. The pardon letter specifically states: “Congratulations, as you are now legally able to truthfully state you have never been arrested or convicted
of a crime in the state of Connecticut.” At the same time, CBP says you should disclose any convictions even if the were sealed or expunged. Should I disclose the conviction and subsequent pardon? Or, as my lawyer suggests, since I can truthfully state that I´ve never been convicted just leave it out of the application? By the way, an FBI background check comes back 100% clean. Thank you.
I believe we spoke on the phone about this matter.
Hello Mr. Manley, I don´t recall speaking about it with anybody other than my expunge attorney. In any event, I submitted my application and disclosed that I had the pardon and all records were expunged. Waiting for the application to be processed. If it gets denied, do you think it can be reconsidered?
Feel free to contact me if that happens. Good luck with the application.
I was convicted for a DUI in 1985 and in 1982 charged with a felony drug offense in Massachusetts where I was given a verdict of continence without a finding, which turns to innocent after probation.
I had my records sealed which I know means nothing to the feds.
Since my records are sealed, if I asked for the CORI report from MA, it would likely come back blank. I live in Mexico and if I need to get my records, I’d likely have to go in person and that’s not going to happen.
I passed an FBI background check that gave me full access to an international airport where I was managing an IT project back around 2007.
Should I bother to apply?
Thanks so much for your time and advice!
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had either a felony conviction or more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I have a misdemeanor Marijuana possession from 1978. I had a global entry card and they just kicked me off. Sure doesn’t meet any ten year limit. Thoughts?
Consider putting in a reinstatement request. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I had an incident crossing the Otay border last year in October 23 2021 in my car
It was my 1st time crossing Otay border and I had a cbp officer who didn’t guide me well .. I was sent to Inspection but I didn’t go to Inspection I went straight thinking it was that way I had 7 CBP officers run down to get me with. My car and i backed up and finally went to Inspection after that day I was just getting sent to Inspection everyday It is going to be 10 months already with going to Inspection and I had nothing in my car I just went the wrong way and didn’t know where to go..would this effect me in getting the sentri if it was an incident?
Consider filing a DHS Trip Redress if CBP is repeatedly sending you to secondary inspections.
Hello I have been in trouble a few times in the past but all my arrest resulted in being booked for sobering only or they were charged as misdemeanors but they were plead down to infractions. Will I be denied sentri?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I was convicted by court martial for fraternization back in 2008. I had been on SENTRI for 20+ years and it was revoked in 2016. I have appealed several times, but keep getting denied. Last time i was denied was 7/2018. Should I just give up? I work for the Government and have a secret clearance. How am i high risk?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I had a telephone harassment charge in 1986 in college pleaded down to a disorderly conduct. I was upfront about everything on the app and in the interview and the application was approved by the time I got to my car to check for an upgrade back in 2018.
My status expires in 2023 and I submitted my renewal the day after I was eligible to renew due to the long waits I heard about. I answered the question about ever being arrested the exact same way I did on the initial app and that’s the only conviction I have. A friend of mine applied two days after I did and he was approved two days later.
Can they decide not to renew based on this arrest since I was approved the first time and revoke my GE or am I worrying over nothing?
Sealed juvenile record with 2 felony’s? Asking for a friend.
Juvenile incidents are usually not charged as adult offenses. Felonies might be different, however. Your friend should consult with a criminal attorney.
I plead guilty to a summary offense in PA in 2008…before I even thought about going into public service. The record was expunged. I work for federal govt and have a high risk public trust. The offense (even though expunged) has been reported on every SF-85 within the time frames on the forms. I am also law enforcement officer for a federal agency. I’ve trained 5 months at the academy and am able to fly armed for domestic flights.
I just applied and hoping they look at the offense, time frame, current public trust level, and my job as mitigating factors.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I got arrested for drug paraphernalia in 2006. I was given a conditional discharge and completed the program. The charge doesn’t come up in my background check. Will this prevent me from getting Global Entry?
Potentially, yes. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Hopefully, the CBP officer reviewing your case will approve. If not, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
About 10 years ago, I was pulled over under susipicion of DUI (completely unreasonably, I may add!) in CA and the officer took me to police station as I refused roadside test. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I think this reasulted in an arrest record. I blew 0.02 well below the legal limit and was let go with no charges. I am not sure if I have any documentation for any of this, but there may be an oustanding arrest. Could this impact global entry? How would I find out if this is even recorded anywhere?
I am not sure what you mean by outstanding arrest. I have heard of outstanding warrants, but not arrests. I would report this as an arrest/detention. Any arrest can affect a global entry application. You can ask for a “detention only” letter from the police. In addition, I would go to the records department of the applicable courthouse. They can run an index-based search of your name and date of birth. You should ask for a certified letter of the results of that. Good luck with the renewal.
My daughter got GE in 2018 when she was 16. She ordered a fake ID before going to college and it was confiscated by Customs while being shipped and her GE was revoked in 2020. If she reapplies what are her chances of it being approved? The rest of our family has it so it makes it harder when we all travel together.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. Given that this is a recent incident, I would doubt that CBP will approve an application.
Paul Pelosi was involved in an alcohol-related auto crash and charged with two misdemeanors on May 28th, 2022. Will his GE be revoked? He was also charged with manslaughter in a 1957 auto crash that killed his brother who was the passenger.
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
Hello, I have applied for Sentri and received Conditional Approval. I am scheduling the interview. I received a dui in 2001 but have no other negative issues of any kind on my record. Have you heard of people being approved in the interview for Sentri in this case?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the court has destroyed the records, you should be able to get a certified index based search from the courthouse indicating a lack of records at that courthouse under your name and date of birth.
I got my first dui this year I’m 33. I’ve been enrolled with the sentri program since I was 14 years old. My sentri is up for renewal in a few months. Will they deny me?
My step dad got a dui about 6 years ago. His application for sentri was already done when he got the dui. Till this day his hasn’t been revoked. He just got renewed last year
I would expect they would deny you.
HI! Was in pretrial Diversion for Driving with suspended Licence. I had in same case An arrest warrant (fail meed judge on time during covid 19), that also was dismissed, Never been arrested. But lost my GE due this fact, guess the arrest warrant. Is this a case I should complain about or do a reapply as my original GE ends in about a year.
I do not know what you mean by you lost GE, but it ends in a year. You could re-apply or choose to apply for reinstatement with the Ombudsman.
Hi there, when I was 14 years old back in 2004 I’m 32 now.I was being bullied and fought back they ended up taking me to Juvi and took my finger prints, I was there for about 30 minutes then my mom picked me up. I’ve never had any other incidents, when I applied for U.S citizenship in 2009 they asked me about the incident I went and got some records and that was it. Will that still show up? Or be something they can deny me for. Thank you
Juvenile incidents are generally sealed and not considered adult criminal offenses. If it was a felony, you may have been charged as an adult.
I’m not sure if Global Entry or Sentri card will suit better for me. I had a dui in 2009 which was expunged. Could Global Entry or Sentri be denied if this is on my record?
A DUI is a criminal misdemeanor. CBP could reject over that. You might have a good reinstatement argument to the Ombudsman’s office if your record is otherwise clean.
A year ago i obtained a Global Pass I used it flying out the country on coming back in I used it in Global Pass line I was then detained, I had an erroneous arrest in 1994 for a corporation I once worked for, the corp had let its brokers license expire so DA thought it was a great idea to arrest corp officers and ‘past’ corp officers. My case was dismissed bar a license not on wall issue at a time I wasn’t there. $5000+ to appeal or pay $90 fine, paid the fine in 1996. Judge was annoyed with DS he dismissed and order destruction of files. It was fully declared on Global Pass application along with Judge rulings. Interview talked about it was not a big deal and I was granted Global Pass. I was told to let Global Pass know that I was detained and it might be a problem each time I come in they can fix it, was given paperwork that asked if I was detained let us know…so I filed an issue as instructed.. Three months later I receive a response Global Pass revoked my GP due to ‘immigration violations’ within last 10 years. I have a green card and no convictions, hearing, court rulings for immigration violations ever. Not sure how to go about this as it seems like the second you request a review they always respond matter stands.
If you were out of status in any way prior to obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’
I had possession of cocaine residue in an old device flying into Canada in February 2016. I was not convicted or charged with anything and was let go by the canadian customs. They did file a report though and my passport was flagged for 7 years every time i was going into Canada. Since than I have gotten approved for a gun license after thier background check and got accepted into career positions after background checks with no issues. Do you think I will have an issue getting approved for global entry?
I´ve been revoked for my program, but I do not know why. Is there any place I can call or visit to check what happened?
Thanks!
CBP is a law enforcement organization that has gotten into the travel perks business. The problem is that CBP knows nothing about basic customer service. CBP has regularly denied or revoked applications. CBP apparently expects applicants to figure out the reasons for the denial on their own.
I was charged and plead guilty to Petty Larceny a misdemeanor in my early 20’s I’m not almost 50 do I even have a chance of getting approved?
You may receive an initial denial as the program can reject for any criminal incidents. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You may have a good argument for reinstatement, however.
Hi, I have my GE appt July 18th and I’m seeing that I might be denied because I’ve been to Cuba. I went to Cuba in Jan of 2019 with reason “for the Cuban people” however, I do not have any documentation to back this up. Will I likely be denied?
If your travel to Cuba was not authorized, CBP could deny as a possible Treasury Department violation. You should obtain proof that you went there validly as a U.S. citizen.
Hello! My husband is British and we are hoping he can apply for global entry. I have 2 questions/concerns:
1. He received 1 minor caution (equivalent of a misdemeanor) when he was 13. He is not 32 and has not had another offense. This came up as we are going through the immigration process for him to move to the US. We submitted the original police certificate with the offense, but it has since been removed from his record. I assume we will still have to disclose it, even though it has been removed from his police certificate. Do you think they will deny him based on this minor juvenile offense?
2. We are currently in the process of applying for a spousal visa. Should he wait until the visa is processed, or can we apply now while it is still in progress?
Thank you!
If you were charged as a minor, ie. juvenile detention, that would or should not be considered an adult criminal conviction. If you are being questioned about it, obtain the court documentation on the incident.
I sponsored my partner’s green card five years ago and we were denied as our answers differed from each other. We have since divorced. Is this considered an immigrant violation even though I’m a US citizen? Would it prevent me from being approved for Global Entry or Sentri?
If your partner was out of status in any way prior to obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’
Hi,
I had a felony conviction back in 2014 and was expunged in 2018.
My husband applied and received his sentri recently, do you think I would get denied?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
I had a drug case in 1997 for possession of control substance and had the case dismissed via drug diversion. I haven’t had any issues since then as a matter of fact I just became a citizen recently. Will I get denied for sentri? I still have copies of my arrest and court records.
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You might have a good argument for possible reinstatement with the Ombudsman, as long as that is the only negative incident.
Your answers mention bringing “certified court dispositions” to an interview. I originally applied for GE years ago and when I went for my interview they had in their possession a document listing two entries for me – a 1974 “647(A) misdemeanor arrest and a 1999 23152(B) DUI (.08%) – both entries on their document were incomplete and each contained the final statement, “severity unknown”. Although I was not formally denied, my interviewing officer seemed unconcerned about the convictions and more about removing the “severity unknown” statement. He merely gave me a 9-digit PASSID # and advised me to return within a certain amount of time with any further explanations (I let it go at the time so that timeframe to do so has since expired). Since then I have obtained my DOJ records which showed the 647(A) dismissed at the time and reduced to a 602(L) “trespassing” and the DUI changed to a 23152(A) “wet reckless”. My question is this: are there official “certified” court documents that I can bring to my interview that show (ONLY) these final dispositions and not all the detailed original arrests along with them? If so, how do I request and/or go about obtaining them?
You have to go to the courthouse or hire a service to obtain this for you. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi, My son was detained and taken to Mexican court and eventually let go from a jail due to the corrupt Police tactics. the next day all the family members got sentri revoked letters…..Got the judges ruling to let him go because he was set up….Any chances for a rebuttal???
CBP has denied SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess.
I am super confused in 2007 I was convicted of identity theft – got probation and since then not even a parking ticket. I have TSA Pre check and when I got that the person who did my paperwork said I should apply for Global. I did waiting to just see a denial for an interview. I got the interview! Why? I put on the paperwork when I filled it out that I had a felony. I did as the web page said when I made the appointment that if you have any criminal convictions to bring the paperwork. If they never approve then why give me an appointment? 15 years since probation and a person is still treated like they are a horrible person.
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
I put that I had a felony on the application. So it was just their mistake to conditionally approve me and schedule an appointment?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
Hello. I was wanting to hear your opinion. I was not arrested but being citied for Disorderly conduct, menacing and obstruct first responders first offense in one incident. All charges were dismissed with prejudice by a court because I was found not guilty, the court automatically expunged records. Should I bother applying?? Also,if yes,should I get a certified copy of the court order if I already had the original copy they sent to me via mail? Thanks
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Is it normal for arrest records to show up at the Global Entry interview as soon as you are fingerprinted? The officer at my interview said that nothing came up but that they needed to wait “until the results of the fingerprints come back.” I had assumed that if I was in the system that the officer would be able to see it.
I have not heard of anything as being ‘normal’ for background checks. I have had a lot of green card cases continued over this reason.
I was arrested for unlawful possession of marijuana in the fifth degree (NYS PL 221.10) in NYC more than 10 years ago. The court told me to keep my nose clean for six months, and my case would be dismissed and my record expunged. I did. My lawyer at the time told me I was restored to my previous status by operation of law and that I could legitimately claim never to have been arrested. Now, incidentally, marijuana is legal in NY State, and the legislature has expunged all convictions related to PL 221.10. So … is this arrest — again, never convicted — something I need to report on a Global Entry application? I paid the NYS court system $95 for a records check, and it shows no record for me. If I do need to report it, is it going to disqualify me from Global Entry?
Consider declaring all arrests, regardless of any expungement. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I was arrested 26 years ago for possession of about 1/4 oz of marijuana when I was 26 years old. The charges were dropped and my record expunged and the files were sealed under a program known as Accelerated Rehabilitation. When I filled out my application, I completely forgot about this incident and did not include it in the form. Do I need to disclose this information during my interview?
Consider declaring all arrests, regardless of any expungement. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi , I came to USA without inspection in 2011 and I applied for asylum within first year and been able to work with work permit for years . Then got married and before I leave for my interview to obtain my green card , I applied for 601a waiver and went to my home country and was able get my ir1 visa and now I got my green card and I applied for global entery . My question is could cbp deny my application because I got a 601a waiver before even I was on a work authorization before I get my green card ?? . Thank you
If you were out of status in any way prior to obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’
How do you get certified copies of the court disposition or transcript. I don’t live in the state anymore do I have to go the courthouse in the same city. I got a misdemeanor in High School 21 years ago for shoplifting I never went to court I just paid a fine in the mail so are there documents at the court in the city this happened in? or can I go anywhere in the state?
You can contact an attorney filing service close to the courthouse where it took place.
I have a GE card that expires in August 2022 and is up for renewal. I had an unfortunate arrest and solicitation charge 3 years ago, which was dismissed after a no contest plea and 6-month diversion. The case was also sealed after one year and there was no conviction. Should I even bother applying for renewal? Would a denial affect the chances of approval on future applications after 10 years? Also, does a denial affect my ability to drive or take a cruise to Canada? Thanks so much for your time and effort.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I had a reckless driving 3 years hago misdemeanor. i was denied and summited a reconsideration letter explaining the situation if i get denied again its there something i can do?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I lost my driver’s license for 6 months for a hit-and-run accident (no bodily injury, minor car injury) 27 years ago. Does that count as a criminal offense, and will it mean that I can not get global entry?
If you were arrested, it could have been prosecuted as a crime. You should check the records to see how it was charged.
My stepson was convicted of drug possesion in 2013. He was a resident alien and was deported. He had sentri as well as my whole family. I am a US citizen and have a clean record. When my stepson was arrested sentri revoked my card and my family as well. My stepson’s sentri application was on my same petition.
I tried to get reinstatemnt but was denied last year. Is there a way to get my sentri priviliges reinstated?
Thank you
CBP has denied SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess.
Hello. I was wanting to hear your opinion. I was not arrested but being citied for Disorderly conduct, menacing and obstruct first responders first offense in one incident. All charges were dismissed with prejudice by a court because I was found not guilty, the court automatically expunged records. Should I bother applying?? Also,if yes,should I get a certified copy of the court order if I already had the original copy they sent to me via mail? Thanks
So to be clear. We do not need to say we were arrested if the offense was for a petty misdemeanor (graffiti) as a juvenile about 20 years ago? Is it better to answer yes on the form as the form ask if “you have ever been arrested ” and then explain to the interviewer that i was a minor and it is sealed?
You could run an FBI background check and see what happens. Most juvenile detentions do not have adult criminal consequences.
In 2001, I left the military with an ‘other than honorable’ discharge. I have since passed several background checks, but was denied a firearm in 2011. I have nothing else on my record. Should I even bother applying for Global Entry?
I do not believe that is a criminal offense. You can always run your FBI check to see if that shows up on your profile.
Hello. One time I crossed with my friend and his brother in the same car through an international bridge. My friend’s brother was set-up and they caught him with drugs. A few months passed after that incident and my sentri was revoked. The issue here is that I only passed with this guy one time in my whole life. If I reapply is there a probability I can get approved? (my appeal was declined). PS. currently he hired a lawyer to prove his innocence and no trial has yet to be confirmed.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
In 2010, my boyfriend (now husband) and I received a ticket for habitating in our car, littering, and being at a public park past closing hours. During this point in our lives, we were two gay men still closeted, so we didn’t have a lot of choices of places to hang out, so we would grab food and hang out in our cars. One night, we happened to fall asleep in the same car after eating dinner at a park nearby. We were awoken by police officers who indicated we were breaking laws by being parked in a car past park closing. When we went to court for these charges, the charges were reduced to a single noise ordinance violation (penal code 415(2)) and charged as a single infraction. Is it worth applying for Global Entry or are our chances slim?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. CBP should look at all the facts and circumstances. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hello, would a 14 almost 15-year felony with a sense clean history working in a position of trust still disqualify you
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
I had TSA Precheck. I was accused of aggravated sexual assault, and they sent me a revokation letter. I later pled nolo contendre to felony battery, adjudication was witheld and am on probation. I recently applied for Global entry, and they took 6 month to deny my and stated the reason as “Other -You do not meet program eligibility requirements.” Should I appeal? Or try and appeal TSA Precheck and get Precheck back?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
I had a DUI conviction in November 2012. I have read in the other comments and replies that I might get approved after 10 years. Does it have to be exactly 10 years (ie I am currently 3.5 months shy of 10 years at this moment)?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. CBP should look at all the facts and circumstances. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi, I have an assault class C misdemeanor that I was fined for in Sept 2019. I had it expunged on my record officially Aug 2021. I am conditionally approved for my Global Entry application, and will be going to my in-person interview next month Sept 2022. Would my application be denied? If so, should I just withdraw my application or if I have a chance do you have any tips or advice for me during the interview? Thank you.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. CBP should look at all the facts and circumstances. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I have a dismissed theft charge from 2008 on my record. I was told by Global entry officer that I have to provide them with a certified court document reflecting severity and disposition of my case. I did not think I would have a problem since it was dismissed in the first place. Should I bother gathering this information or do you feel my application will be denied?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I had a misdemeanor for shoplifting a dvd right when I turned 18, this was back in December of 2008. Do you think I will be approved for global entry? My application still says “pending review” almost 4 weeks later. My family has already had theirs approved and scheduled for an in person interview.
Thanks!
Vlad
CBP will or should look at the facts and circumstances when considering any application, especially one with a misdemeanor conviction. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hello Mr. Manley, first of all, thank you for having this and responding to so many people.
I have a felony conviction (larceny) from 2005, no jail time, and completed probation. Fast forward 17 years to today – no other trouble whatsoever, except I embarrassingly got arrested for a DUI in late 2017. It was later reduced to a “DWAI” in NY state – which is a violation, not a crime such as a misdemeanor or a felony. I have a few questions I’d appreciate your thoughts on:
1. I was issued Pre-Check in July of 2017. From what I’ve read online, I don’t think this dwai will affect that upon renewal.
2. What are the chances of you thinking I might get approved for GE with a felony that old? Will the DWAI factor in even though it’s not a misdemeanor or felony? In NY state I can not get the record sealed, which I am working on doing – not sure if that will have any bearing?
3. If I took a chance and ended up being denied for GE, would that then affect my pre-check status? That’s my biggest concern… if they’re different entities and not really “linked” so to speak, I’m willing to take the chance on losing the fee. However, if it would result in my pre-check being revoked, I would leave well enough alone.
I appreciate any input you may have, thank you again!
You’re welcome. I have never heard of anyone getting approved who either had a felony conviction or had more than one conviction. TSA PreCheck seems to have its own standards. I have had clients who were rejected/revoked from the Trusted Traveler program but successfully applied for or retained their PreCheck status.
I pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor possession charge in 2016, and my record was expunged. Do you think my global entry application will be denied?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. CBP should look at all the facts and circumstances. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I had an initial denial for some duis when under 21 in a zero tolerance state. It occurred 22 years ago and have 0 arrests since. I was initially denied but then appealed to Ombudsman. Today I got a notice saying that it “has overturned the denial/revocation of your membership” and was issued a pre-approval.
I am currently out of the country and returning on Saturday. I don’t have any court documents or anything. Am I safe to simply do the interview at the airport given I have already successfully appealed to Ombudsman or is there a chance they will ask for more information and deny again?
I guess the more general question is, if you have successfully won the appeal with Ombudsman is it a done deal and the interview a simple formality at this point? Have you heard of someone being denied after successfully appealing to Ombudsman?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
My question was more around what happens after you successfully win an appeal with Ombudsman? Is the interview pretty much a formality at that point?
I was approved. Have used my global entry twice already. So there is now a case where someone with more than one got approval.
Possibly because of my age when it happened and how log ago it was.
Hello,
I read most of these comments so I’m guessing my case is also a no, but I had to ask anyways.
Roughly 6 years ago I was detained and penalized ($500) and released for undeclared medication. I’ve NEVER had any other kind of conviction.
Assuming I can not qualify for sentry, can I qualify for TSA precheck? or will this affect my passport eligibility?
TSA PreCheck has its own qualification criteria. I have heard of people who have been rejected/revoked from the Trusted Traveler program who were approved for TSA PreCheck.
I am debating on whether I could apply to Global Entry. I have an adjudication withheld in Florida of a grand theft 3rd degree felony that has been sealed not expunged. What, if any, are my chances of getting approved to TTP. Or should I just apply for TSAPreCheck?
Thank you!
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction. I do not believe it matters to CBP if the conviction was expunged at a later date.
My husband had a DUI reduced to a reckless driving 10 years ago. He has not had anything since as it really was a one time mistake. I wanted him to apply for Nexus because I heard that if he received it, that would mean he wouldn’t get randomly denied entry at the border due to his history. Is that true? We live in Seattle and would like to be able to travel to Canada. I assume I will not be able to be with him for a Nexus interview? He has Parkinson’s (at the time of his “wet reckless” he was undiagnosed and alcohol was basically self medicating it because nervousness in social situations greatly aggravates Parkinson’s) and even with medication any kind of interview like that will leave him very shaky, hard to talk.
Please consult with a Canadian lawyer about entry requirements to Canada.
I was denied Global Entry, with the letter stating “You have been convicted and/or arrested for a criminal offense
2 arrests. Does not meet strict standards.” There is an invitation for reconsideration, and I’m wondering what chances I have to be approved. One incident was a shoplifting charge in 1995 (dismissed after 40 hours of community service) and a domestic incident in 2000 (dismissed after 1 year of probation). I’ve had no legal issues before, or since these issues.
I’ve obtained the disposition documents, which I will upload with a letter to explain. Neither resulted in a conviction. What do you think are the chances that the Ombudsman would approve me? Thank you, John.
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction. Your analysis that neither resulted in a conviction appears faulty. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the dispositions for these incidents.
I take my dogs often across the border to the vet. One day I failed to notice that my sick pitbull had not finished her lunch – a raw chicken leg. Is this offense enough to get me disqualified for Global Entry?
That could be a customs violation. You should monitor your TTP profile for changes.
Hello,
I want to apply for the global entry but the only reason that stops me is that I’ve heard is that if a direct family member had federal convictions in the past that they will denied me is it true ? My brother served some for smuggling people 10 years ago. I’m married now and I would like to have the global entry or sentri.
Thank you!
CBP has denied Global Entry or SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess.
Hello Mr Manley,
My question is I have never had any problems with law enforcement or tickets but I’ve heard that for Global entry and Sentri they do a background check and that if a direct family member had felonies they will denied me is it true? My brother served time for trying to smuggle people and they deport him. But now I’m married and I would like to have the global entry and sentri is it possible? Or what can I do?
Hello Mr. Manley,
First off, thank you for facilitating such a useful conversation. I would like to ask a question specific to my situation. I was detained for 2 days over a petty theft issue. It happened 3 years ago, however the charged was dismissed and does not appear on any background checks, as I was not convicted of a misdemeanor, violation or crime.
Say I fill out my application and crime questions come up, do I mark I have never been convicted or charge any crimes? Would I still have a chance is getting approved? I can bring a copy of the court disposition to the interview but want to check if I have a chance on getting it before trying.
Thank you!
Consider declaring all arrests, regardless of any expungement. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If you had to plead guilty at any point to any charge in the transcripts, that would likely be a disqualifying factor.
I had 2 felonies (drug related of possession and sell) reduced to misdemeanors back in 2016 and they were expunged in 2018 from my criminal records. Is global entry worth trying for or does this exclude me from getting accepted?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had either a felony conviction or more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I got conditional approval on my initial application went to the interview, and the officer asked about a family violence charge from 1994. I explained the circumstances, no physical violence and it was dropped to a Class C misdemeanor. The office said I need to submit my background report. I waited too long and got denied. I submitted a reconsideration request and its pending review. I have no conviction except for the one mentioned. I currently hold a Secret Clearance(I’m sure this doesn’t matter). Will I still get denied because of the 94 FV?
I cannot speculate on what the Ombudsman’s office will decide. Much of it, I would imagine, would relate to the strength of your evidence and arguments.
If I have a misdemeanor charge (DUI ~ 7 years ago) non disclosed/Sealed will this be able to qualify me for global entry program?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I obtained global entry in 2018 and used it with success up until recently and went to renew in 2022 and i was denied and global entry revoked. I went to the trusted traveler center for meeting to find out more information and was told the issue was an OPT violation and they also noted that my SEVIS account was still active.
I believe my school has not updated my information correctly. I graduated in 2013 and started OPT then worked and received OPT extension. During OP extension in 2015 I had both my mother and grandfather sick and I had to return to my country. I notified the school and they told me I was all set. I recently requested and received a letter from them stating when I had finished and when I ended my OPT. I am within my 30days to respond or write to ombudsman.
If you have been denied, you do not have a 30-day deadline to apply for reconsideration.
What are the chances are re-applying for Global Entry successfully after being denied for forgetting to declare a DUI misdemeanor from 30 years ago? Of course it would be declared when reapplying.
Thank you,
Definitely declare the incident. I recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. I cannot offer any probability of success.
I was charged with a misdemeanor Jan1 2011.
i did community service and completed it
On March 27,2014 the court granted me an expulsion.
When can successfully reapply for Global Entry and Nexus
10 years from the initial charge or 10 years from my expulsion.
I have had a perfectly clean record since Jan1,2011.
Ten years is not an official policy. CBP will look at the facts and circumstances. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the dispositions for this incident.
What happens after you win an appeal with Ombudsman? Is the Interview pretty much a formality at that point? Or could they deny me again for the same reason? I plan on bringing the letter from Ombudsman saying that they have “overturned the denial/revocation of your membership.”
Have you heard of people being denied again after winning the appeal with Ombudsman?
My wife currently has Global Entry for 10 years. Her card is about to expire and she needs to renew. Four years ago she plead guilty to Negligent Driving for a single vehicle car accident (no property damage, just her car) after having consumed alcohol. Only legal issue ever in her life. Can she renew her Global Entry or will it be denied? Can she apply for TSA Precheck alone if she is unlikely to be renewed for Global Entry? Thanks for your interesting and insightful answers.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. I have seen cases of people with Trusted Traveler program denials getting approved for TSA PreCheck.
Hi John
Just re-applied for Global entry
When I applied the first time in December 2021 I had an Order of Protection against me.
I was denied
It has since been vacated (l am told this means it like it never happened)
I also was cited for drunk driving in 2019 but I was found not guilty
Do you think I will be subject to this “waiting period”
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. CBP might view a protection order as an ongoing security incident.
As to the DUI, you should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I was convicted of a minor in possession of alcohol in 2008, a possession of marijuana in 2009, and a DUI for marijuana in 2011. Is that an automatic denial for me?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
You’ve mentioned two convictions is a no go with GE. I had a Reckless in 2009 and in 2013. I’m also eight months sober. Based on what I’ve read I’m going to be denied (first time applying to GE). If I re-apply past the 10 year mark of the last infraction I’ll be nearly two years sober. If I’m in AA would any indicator of that, or my sponsor offering to speak with someone help at all?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
just got a my first dui first conviction iam currently in the sentri program will my membership get taken away ??
Yes. A DUI is a criminal conviction.
I have had Nexus for 6 years and I submitted my renewal during covid. My nexus is still valid as it got extended. During this time I was arrested with a DUI and refusals to submit a chemical test. I have won the DMV hearing and the charge has been dropped to a disorderly Conduct 240.20 segment 7 violation. I have no priors and remain with a clean driving record. I was stopped by police and it was proven I was not impaired or intoxicated. I plead to disorderly conduct instead of wasting money for trial and I have certified transcripts of this. Can I still go in for Nexus or apply for Global Entry instead. There is no conviction with anything drug or alcohol related it’s just a disorderly conduct. Do I have to wait? My mom and dad are citizens of Canada and my father had a heart attack making going to Canada a constant trip.
Most jurisdictions view disorderly conduct as a criminal offense. As an applicant, you bear the burden of proof. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
If you have had Global Entry, then were arrested, charged with petit larceny, and had charges dismissed, you must declare the arrest on your Global Entry renewal application. Will you be turned down for renewal?
As an applicant, you bear the burden of proof. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I have never been convicted of a crime but did have a plea and obeyance for assault. My plea and obeyance dismissed the charge after completion of 1 year probation in 2019. If I get the charge expunged do I still have to mention it in the interview?
Some diversion programs require a guilty plea. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Was “interrogated “ about juvenile records during a GE interview I felt that to NOT be under the parameters of questioning about criminal history since I was never convicted of any crime as a juvenile under age 18.
Juvenile convictions are generally detention-only incidents and not considered as adult convictions. The matter is usually a privacy issue. Some children are charged as adults, depending on the incident.
I was convicted of indecent exposure as an 18yr in 2006 no other issue since. Should I even consider applying?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I had a Drug Paraphernalia misdemeanor that I plead Guilty- Withheld Judgement for 10 years ago and I was denied. They noted to get the official court record and present it at my next interview in person. Will I most likely be denied again if I obtain that document?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I was convicted of shoplifting 53 years ago. I’m now a 75 year old woman, and i’ve had no criminal record since then. I don’t even know for sure what year this took place, but it was in Hawaii. I live in California. I can not obtain any records. I’d like to apply for Global Entry but I don’t want to waste my $100 fee or get into a huge hassle about it all. Do you think I should even bother applying? Should I mentione this offense from 50+ years ago? THANKS for your help.
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Thanks so much for answering and helping. I actually was able to find and purchase a certified copy of my misdemeanor from Jan. of 1972. BUT my problem/question is : isn’t the CBP going to toss out my $100 application immediately because of the conviction? Is there a chance of even getting to an interview to show them the records? Basically I need to know how to proceed now and what to expect. I would really appreciate it!
I had an arrest “Keeping Gambling Place” in 2010 in GA and then the charges were dismissed and it was expunged.I applied for the GE, the application is pending.What would be the next steps ?Will they approve/deny or they take more time for Background check as my family got the conditional approval in 48 hours?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hello.
I’ve been arrested and case was dismissed and then expunged. I said “NO” to the arrest question on application. Would they still see it?
Thanks
I would amend that answer if you receive an interview. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I am 60 years old and had a DUI over twenty years ago. I hired a lawyer and did everything I was told to do, including community service. I have had no traffic tickets or any brushes with the law since. Should I bother to apply for Global Entry?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I asked this on another comment but wanted post it here as well. I was arrested on suspicion of DUI in January of 2011 and ended up pleading no contest to a misdemeanor obstruction of a highway in April of 2013. Would I be better off waiting to apply after April of 2023 or has it been long enough since it is more than 11 years since the arrest date.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. Ten years is not an official policy. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I had a customs violation about 15 years ago. I stupidly tried to order a controlled drug from what I thought was a legitimate international pharmacy. I didn’t have a prescription and the drug was confiscated in customs and I got a letter telling me that the drug was being destroyed. OK. I learned my lesson. There have been no violations since then and I have no criminal history. I applied for and was approved for global entry and travelled internationally a dozen times without any problems. Then, my 5 year global entry renewal was done by paying the fee and shortly thereafter my global entry was revoked. I appealed and paid $100. It took 11 months for a response. The appeal was denied, citing previous violation as the reason. I would think that since it’s been so long ago and that I’ve travelled with my passport many times without incident that it would have dropped off by now. Should I appeal the appeal or should I just reapply? What are my chances? I would simply acknowledge the violation and plead that it’s been so long and I’ve proven that there have been zero problems since then. Or should I just leave it alone?
My understanding of the reconsideration/reinstatement process is that it is a one-time correspondence. If you have applied for reconsideration already, I cannot help you. You could consider re-applying.
Hi,
I’m a USA resident. I was arrested in 2002. The sentence was “withheld” adjudication. Even though did not have a felony conviction, the incident made me deportable. I had to leave the USA in 2006. I filed for a waiver and it was approved. I was allowed to come back in 2019. My record has been sealed and I contained a waiver Other than 2002 the incident. is it a waste of time for me to apply? Thanks
I estimate CBP would initially deny for the immigration/criminal violation. I would not anticipate that you would succeed in reinstatement. But, that is just one person’s opinion. The only way to know is to apply. You should obtain all your court and criminal records for the application, if you decide to apply.
I overstayed my 90 day limit in the Schengen Zone in 2010 by 5–7 days. The border agent said that I would have a 6 month ban on return, but as I didn’t have to return within 6 months, I never knew if the ban was officially placed and registered. I received no fine. I just applied for Global Entry and noted this incident on my application. I have no criminal record, nor further immigration incidents since the aforementioned. Should I anticipate a rejection to my application?
Any immigration violation could lead to a denial.
I currently have a Sentri card which expires at the end of next year. I am eligible to apply for renewal at the end of December this year. In May of this year I had a DUI arrest but as I was under the legal limit charges were never filed and the prosecutor has told my attorney that they do not plan to file charges though the statute of limitations does not expire until May of next year. I understand if no charges are ever filed the arrest is deemed a detention only under California law. Do I need to disclose this incident as an arrest when I re-apply (which I will do after May of next year)? Is there any chance I will be denied renewal because of an arrest where no charges were ever filed?
Declare all arrests. That is a question on the application. If the statute of limitation has not expired, CBP could very well deny as it could be an ongoing legal matter.
I received a DUI in 1999. The case was eventually dismissed and expunged from my record. I disclosed during my interview for GE. I was approved and even traveled using my GE. Six month later my GE was revoked because I no longer meet the eligibility requirements. That DUI is the only thing on my record. Do I have any chance for reconsideration?
Disclosing the matter is not enough. You might have a good reconsideration argument. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the dispositions for these incidents.
Question about Sentry and Global entry revoking. My wife road in an uber recently and the gentlmen said something about their daughter had missed school too many times and had a meeting with the board of supervisors. Somehow that interaction with missing school got his whole family revoked of their sentri or global entry. Is there something more this case like other background reasons or something such as your child missing school can affect your trusted traveler card?
CBP has denied or revoked Global Entry or SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess. That may have been the issue here.
My wife had sentri for a long time and was revoked in 2017. Her story is that they found a positive result of marijuana in a test they took and revoked her sentri on the spot. They did not charge her as she also says her car was pretty clean from her vacuuming all the time and she said they tested twice and the second time was when it tested positive but to her it just looked like lent. Would she be able to get it reinstated in less than 10 years or wait the 10 years? We already tried to get it reinstated in 2020 but she was denied again. She also did speak with someone at the enrollment office to appeal but they said that at the moment she is denied.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
Got a speeding ticket when I was a minor (had JUST turned the age to get to license), supposedly got it removed for obtaining it.
Got a DUI at 21, more than 10 years ago. Does the first ticket still impact my chances of getting approved?
A DUI is a criminal violation. CBP can and usually will deny due to that.
In September of 2018, while entering NZ, I had the top stub of a banana in my computer bag. It broke off in Brisbane Airport, I threw it my bag (I was nowhere near a trashcan) and ate the banana and threw out the peel. I flew from Brisbane to Sydney then connected to a the Auckland flight. When I landed, I looked in my bag (5+ hours had elapsed and it was late) and saw no fruit. I went through customs and was near the exit when a beagle made the mad dash. I went into the office and the customs officer and I went through the bag and there at the bottom was the black stem of the banana. He said he was very sorry but it’s a strict liability violation. I paid the fine on the spot ($400NZ ouch). Fast forward to this past March 2022. I applied to renew (as GE was expiring on my birthday in September 2022). I was rejected 2 days ago because of “Other – a customs or agriculture violation”. I checked my app printout and I marked “No” to customs violation. They didn’t call that out and the Reconsideration button is active (which the site says that I’m eligible). They also invited me to reapply. I have at least 3 choices: do nothing (as it doesn’t look like I lost Precheck), apply for a reconsideration to explain the event, or reapply for GE and answer yes (with an explanation) for the customs violation. What would you recommend I do? I’ve never had any other violations in over 30 years of travel.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I got approved for my sentri card recently a week ago. I just got into a car accident while it was raining with a school bus. No one was injured and no deaths. I wasn’t going over the speed limit and it was a green light. The bus moved to the left lane and then made a wide right turn and we collided hitting one side of the bus and nothing happened to the bus. Can I get my sentri revoked?
If it’s a collision without criminal liability, I do not see how that would affect SENTRI.
Can I get my sentri revoke if I had a collision but there were no law violations, no injuries, or deaths. It happened during a green light and I was not going over the speed limit.
Global Entry, when it asks for court docs for any convictions, will this apply to outside the US? I was convicted of DWI in Canada about 9 years ago. I have had zero issues in the US ever. Should I disclose this, what are the chances of it coming up and what are the chances of denial for this.
CBP can deny for any criminal conviction, regardless of where it occurred.
I got denied my global entry two days ago. Email just says other for reason.
My husband is no legal resident which I did disclose his information when they asked me for his name and dob. I’m assuming that’s the reason of denial as I have no criminal history . My 5 year old son was also denied since I applied for both together but my husband is not his father and only I am on birth records .
CBP is a law enforcement organization that has gotten into the travel perks business. The problem is that CBP knows nothing about basic customer service. CBP has regularly denied or revoked applications without offering an explanation. CBP apparently expects applicants to figure out the reasons for the denial on their own. The best way is to issue spot the problem yourself. CBP generally denies requests due to criminal, customs, immigration violations, or close association to people who are a security risk. You can try to file a Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”). FOIA at times yields little useful information.
Can I apply for TSA pre check if global was denied ?
TSA PreCheck has its own qualification criteria. I have heard of people who have been rejected/revoked from the Trusted Traveler program who were approved for TSA PreCheck.
Husband was denied in 2020 bcuz of his first attempt to enter the US illegally in 2006. He was not deported or arrested, just returned back to Mexico. I requested reconsideration since he was forgiven and a permanent resident. Denied again. Now US citizen, should we try again.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. You have a close association with a person with a customs violation. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
Hello,
I was charge with “Theft 50 ” misdemeanor in Texas in 2001 ( 18 years old at the time) did community service and it was dismissed. Will this cause me to me denied for global entry?
Any criminal conviction can result in a denial. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
For Global Entry, should I disclose an underage (not expunged) in the state of PA (Which is a non-traffic summary offense). It was ~7yrs ago. I cannot find the court documents anywhere online. I’m pretty sure I completed the programs for it to be dismissed.
Juvenile offenses have privacy issues that likely change from state to state. You should declare any adult offense. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
In New Jersey, DUI is not a criminal offense and convictions don’t appear on an FBI criminal background check. Does DHS check for them using other means?
I find it hard to believe that a DUI is not considered a criminal offense.
I was arrested in Guam for joyriding. I have a court date later this year. Would they deny me based off of that alone? Would it be better to wait and see what happens at my court appearance before attending my interview? Thanks for the advice.
Any criminal conviction can result in a denial. If you are in court proceedings, that may result in a conviction.
I was arrested for a DUII and was offered to enter a diversion program for 12 months. I had to plead guilty, but once I completed the program, the courts dismissed the DUII complaint with prejudice. Is this still considered a conviction even though it was dismissed by the courts? I have the court records to show the dismissal with the judge and attorney generals signature. Obviously this is still an arrest and I would need to disclose it on the application and interview.
Or is this considered not a conviction since it was dismissed?
Ten years is not an official policy. CBP will look at the facts and circumstances. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the dispositions for these incidents.
I’m 69 years old and applied 2 weeks ago for Global Entry, as I am married to a Thai and she has a house in Thailand that I visit once or twice a year. I put on the application that in 1985, I was convicted of a DUI, with the understanding that if I did the things required by the court (which I did), it would be expunged (which I’ve never checked on). I did report the expungement . No other convictions or problems with Customs.
I was hoping that it would be a short time to get a conditional qualification but nothing so far. If it takes a long time to qualify, it’s not that big of a deal. However, I’m hoping that I don’t receive a denial after a lengthy examination process. After a 38 year period, is there any scenario that you can see where I don’t qualify? Thanks!
After reading comments and replies for an hour, I’m not so confident that I’ll be approved. My 29 year old Thai step son has has had several convictions for drinking/drugs and shoplifting and currently has an arrest warrant out for him. Fortunately, he still uses his father’s last name, so I’m not sure if a background check of me will pull that up. Second, in 2006 i overstayed my visa in Thailand by 1 day. I knew that when I got to the airport that I would be charged $20, which I was. I’ve been back to Thailand every other year since and haven’t had any problems entering or leaving Thailand but have no idea if the long arms of the people at Global Entry can up over that as an immigration problem. I guess if I am denied or conditionally approved, I’ll get the court records from my DUI and hope for the best if I get to the interview stage.
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I’m a green card holder through my wife who’s a U.S. CITIZEN. I enter the country in 2003 with false documents and my I-601 was approved last year an subsequently the green card was issued. Do you think I’m still eligible? Thanks.
Any immigration violation could lead to a denial.
I am already part of the program, but I just got an arrest over the weekend for a misdemeanor Domestic Violence. If I cross right now could I get it revoked? I am waiting for court and trying to get the charges dismissed.
The program will likely revoke you at some point.
Hi Chris,
I had a disturbance of peace infraction in 2017 that was dismissed and records expunged. I applied for GE and provided the certified copies and my GE got approved. I took an international trip recently and was able to use GE to enter. However the system sent me to an officer who sent me to secondary and after sometime they just asked me to leave after checking. The whole point of getting the GE was I could avoid going to secondary every single time I reentered the country. How can I get this fixed?
I am surprised that CBP approved you in the first place. Nothing prevents CBP from referring a traveler to secondary inspections. If it continues to happen you could consider DHS Trip Redress.
Once conditionally approved will GE state if you need to bring court disposition documents or not?
I had a public intox arrest in 2016 which was subsequently dismissed at cost.
I was planning on bringing the docs I have with me but wasn’t sure what I should submit – I have a PDF copy of the signed “motion to dismiss with an order of dismissal” but it doesn’t even state the original charge on there? Just has my name, court info and the ticket number. Is this document what you mean by “court disposition.” I have the police report as well but figure that might be overkill! Thanks!
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. The minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Thank you for keeping up with this website and blog post – ALOT of info here. I am currently pleading guilty with a deferred entry of judgement for a federal felony. The term is 12 months, and it will be dismissed. There is no “conviction” nor on record, but assuming this will flag on my Sentri pass and remove me from the program? at some point? no one can provide any concrete information. thank you
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction. I do not believe it matters to CBP if the conviction was deferred or expunged at a later date.
Global Entry for boss was revoked in 2016-17 (not sure of date)…accidentally bringing in cigars he forgot were in his bag. He wants me to renew it…is there a 10 year rule? Not sure if it’s worth trying.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I am a UK citizen with a DUI conviction from 2011 in the UK. Am I likely to be accepted for GE? If I am denied might this create difficulties entering the US in the future?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. The minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi there! I applied for global entry in 2020 and was denied due to a “petty theft” misdemeanor from 2011. I got it expunged in 2018. This is my only misdemeanor and the officer at the global entry office advised to re apply after the 10 years. Is it worth trying to apply again? I did appeal it and included my expungement paperwork from the court and plead my case. They denied me again but I appealed 2 months shy of the full “10 years” – now it is well over 10 years
Consider re-applying. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. The minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I just completed my global entry application, I have no convictions but I had an arrest in 1977 when I was 21 for public intoxication. The case was dismissed and my record was expunged, which I stated in the application. I have no court records of the event. I do have a newspaper article about the incident. More than 80 students were arrested when a football pep rally got out of hand. Should I be concerned about my Global Entry application?
CBP can often look past expungements, so I would not agree with your conclusion that you lack a criminal conviction. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
Hi, my sentri got taken by customs this morning. They didn’t tell me why, only told me to call a number and to get it soort it out with sentri people. I was reviewing my sentri profile and the only thing I could find wrong was that my license on the sentri profile is expired. My actual license is current, when I did my renewal it was current also. When I got my new license I didn’t think about updating it in the sentri profile. You think this is grounds for it to be taken away? My wife’s got taken away also, her sentri profile had the same license issue as me. Customs didn’t take my kids sentris. I will find out when I call on Monday.
You should research how to request a phone appointment with a SENTRI supervisor. I have heard that SENTRI card holders can request such an appointment.
will i be denied for global entry due to a petty theft i was involved in more that 23 years ago. should i apply or make a case?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Hopefully, the CBP officer reviewing your case will approve. If not, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
I work in the (legal, licensed) cannabis industry, though I am technically employed through a professional employer organization that does not indicate the nature of the company it services. My Global Entry membership is coming up for renewal — is it possible that I’ll get denied based on that current employment? No criminal record of any kind.
CBP has always taken a strong position against cannabis and its industry. Denial is a possibility.
Recently had an arrest in 2021 for DUI, but was dropped down to a reckless driving with adjudication withheld pending completion of probation. I am in the TTP program with GE and it was never revoked for this arrest, however, it expires later this year. Currently, I’m working on expungement of the case altogether even though there’s no conviction in this since adjudication was withheld and probation was completed. Should I even bother with renewal?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. CBP should look at all the facts and circumstances. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
My wife has lived in the U.S. for 20 years and was approved a Unlawful Presence Waiver in 2018. She’s a citizen now. She has almost 3 years of military service with security clearance (90% active duty). Do you think it’s worth trying to get global entry? Would waiting 10 years make a difference?
Thanks in advance for your advice.
Any immigration violation could lead to a denial. It is unclear if CBP will approve if it has been a long time since the violation. Most likely, CBP will deny the application.
If you have a felony for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance 20+ years ago, is it worth it to even try for global entry?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
Even if the felony convictions (several) were expunged (dismissed & set aside) in the early 2000s?
That is my opinion.
my husband had a misdemeanor because he was selling counterfeit brands for only 1 day at the swapmeet . His sentri was revoke 12 years ago.
Do we have a change to reapply and get it.
My sentri was revoke too together with my children.
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Hopefully, the CBP officer reviewing your case will approve. If not, you could have a good argument for reinstatement.
I was just rejected for the 2nd time after previously having a global entry membership for a “prior customs or agriculture violation” with no further detail provided. I 100% HAVE HAD NO PRIOR INCIDENTS. I submitted a FOIA request to see if something turned up and that revealed nothing, and I can’t get in touch with anyone to understand what exactly they think I did. I’m almost positive this is inaccurate, but is there any way to actually speak with someone to learn what exactly they think this incident is? I travel internationally a couple times a year, always without incident. So frustrating. Any tips?
You might ask to see a supervisor when you pass by one of the global enrollment centers at an airport.
I was arrested for traffic infraction. The police then pulled me out of the car and one of the officers planted drugs in my car. I got some lawyers and I was released after the lawyers argued the traffic stop was unlawful due their being no stop sign.
Anyways, I got my Sentri revoked immediately along with my family. I have court papers that I was released. How do I fight to get my Sentri back?
You would obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. Feel free to contact me directly if you want representation: https://johnmanley.net/contact-us/
I had a simple misdemeanor 12 years ago labeled “Presenting false identification to obtain alcohol” and paid a $300 fine (similar to a minor in possession). I’m not even sure there would be court documents. I’ve applied for GE. What can I expect? What do you suggest?
Thanks!
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. The minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I was convicted in California Court of “Conspiracy to Commit Grand theft” in 2003. (False insurance claim). It was reduced and expunged 3 years or so later. I was an attorney at the time, and was reinstated in 7 years ago following a State Bar moral fitness trial ratified by the California Supreme Court. SENTRI was revoked in 2014, likely based on the conviction. I was recently approved for TSA-Pre check.
Would it be worth the effort to apply for Global Entry?
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction. I do not believe it matters to CBP if the conviction was deferred or expunged at a later date.
When I was 23, in 2006 I went to Amsterdam. I accidentally left less than half a gram of marijuana in the back pocket of a pair of jeans in my bag. I was certain I emptied it all out before leaving. They told me I could pay $500 now, or I could go to court and pay $5,000. I paid $500. They asked me why I didn’t tell them I was arrested for defending myself when I was 16, and I told them that the judge in the case had told me I wouldn’t have to disclose that. It was a PBJ, and I successfully completed it. In 2012 I was pulled over by the police with a girl I had met a week earlier. They found marijuana on her, and charged me with a grinder they found. I asked for the police records but they didn’t provide them. They subsequently dropped the charges. I haven’t been in trouble since, and I don’t have any convictions for anything. I’ve had TSA PreCheck for the last year or two, but I decided to apply for Global Entry at the end of January. It’s still pending review. Do you think I’ll be denied?
If you paid a fine in a criminal case, you likely have a conviction. CBP could deny it on that basis. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
My parents and I accidentally brought in a box of pastries that were considered agricultural items 11 years ago. We had cleared immigrations at that point and were at baggage claim. The items were confiscated by CBP and we weren’t issued a fine. Before we exited baggage claim, the CBP officer typed something into a computer while looking at our passports. Does this count as a violation for GE? Do you think we’ll be denied?
If CBP confiscated something, it would likely have characterized that as a customs violation.
I had a misdemeanor arrest showing from 2003 when I went to my SENTRI interview; the issue was that I had totally forgotten it as being 20 years ago; I was not handcuffed or placed in jail, just waited in a room for about 3 hours and was released. No charges were filed, and the court has no records of the incident even happening. I provided the proof of no records available to CPB along with an apology for forgetting to list an incident that I had totally forgotten years ago. Right now, I am waiting to hear back from CPB, do you think my application would be denied and if so could I appeal? To clarify, I have no other record of any kind whether criminal, civil, or customs.
If they do not approve, you would likely have a strong reconsideration request to make with the Ombudsman.
Had arrest last year for suspicion of DUI but blew under legal limit at station. Prosecutor declined to file charges and statute of limitations has passed. My Sentri is up for renewal later this year. I have no court documents since no charges were ever filed. Am I likely to have any problems with renewal? Should I declare the “arrest” since it technically is a “detention only?”
Declare all arrests. You can get a certified database search from the courthouse records department indicating that it has no cases with your name/DOB. You might also be able to get a letter of non-prosecution from the DA’s office.
Does someone who has no criminal record but was recently removed from the no fly list and selectee list and also the broader watchlist have any chance of being approved for Global Entry?
It’s a good question. My gut impression is that CBP takes its time in clearing its database with fact patterns such as yours.
Hi,
My boyfriend recently received a notification regarding his Global Entry being revoked without a reason provided. He has never been arrested or convicted of any criminal offense. Additionally, he doesn’t have any customs/immigration violations.
Do you have any idea why it would be revoked?
CBP is a law enforcement organization that has gotten into the travel perks business. The problem is that CBP knows nothing about basic customer service. CBP has regularly denied or revoked applications without offering an explanation. CBP apparently expects applicants to figure out the reasons for the denial on their own. The best way is to issue spot the problem yourself. CBP generally denies requests due to criminal, customs, immigration violations, or close association to someone who is a security risk. You can try to file a Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”). FOIA at times yields little useful information.
Hello,
I was arrested in 2007 and 2009 for minor marijuana possession. I was conditionally approved but denied at the interview. I have since gotten all charges annulled off my record. Is it possible to be approved for reconsideration? If so, what approach should I take? TIA
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
to be crystal clear, one of my arrests I was not convicted, the other I was convicted, but now both have been successfully annulled. still think my chances are slim? – I am going to request reconsideration after i verify my record is clear.
I am not giving individual advice in this blog. CBP could deny due to any criminal conviction. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident(s).
I have a misdemeanor for theft (under $50) from 2008 that I never went to court for. Many years later (sometime between 2013-2015) I got a call that it went to warrant and I went and paid it off. I do not know the exact dates or if it was considered “convicted” or if it consider me paying it off as pleading guilty? Do you think this would cause me to be denied?
CBP could deny over any criminal conviction. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
That’s the thing, I never had a court date and to my knowledge I was never requested to appear in court. Several years after I got the ticket I got a phone call saying they had issued a warrant but I could have it cleared by going up to the courthouse (I think) and paying it off – so I did just that, I paid it off. I don’t have any records from that or even know how to have my ticket looked up. Any advice on the best way to obtain documentation regarding this? I don’t even know the date I got the ticket, I’m only pretty sure of the year – 2008.
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You can get a certified database search from the courthouse records department indicating that it has no cases with your name/DOB. You might also be able to get a letter of non-prosecution from the DA’s office.
Hello, I applied and received Sentri/global entry in 2016. During the interview/application process, I disclosed I had a DUI. The exact date, I couldn’t remember but I thought 1988 or 1989. When CBP fingerprinted me, I didn’t show up in the database. Upon renewal this year, I was declined and revoked. Zero criminal record, or traffic incidents in the past. I obtained a certified copy of “results of criminal traffic/minor offense record” from Superior of California, county of San Diego. Nothing found. Should I “request reconsideration” or any other suggestions? Thank you!!!
That could be a compelling reinstatement request, with the proper arguments.
It is unclear from statute and regulations what can be construed as an “immigration violation”. In October 2000 at Whirlpool Bridge POE Niagara Falls NY, INS (the legacy agency known today as CBP) found me inadmissible and initiated processing “Expedited Removal”, I had left Venezuela at that time fearing death threats and imminent danger, they returned me to Canada on a Canadian Visitor Visa to await for a telephone “credible fear” interview required at a POE at the border. I still have PTSD from interactions with CBP to this day, I didn’t attend the interview because they cancelled my visa and it was impossible to board a Greyhound bus to the border, I proceeded to obtain Refugee status in Canada which I successfully obtained later, but the “Expedited Removal” meant a 5-year bar to reentry to the US, which ended in Oct 2005 and I obtained B1/B2 visas successfully after that time. However, this situation has been haunting me ever since, I’ve been refused entry six more times after that one incident, none of which are “Expedited Removal” but rather “Application for Admission Withdrawn” on the grounds of being “an Immigrant not in possession of / without an Immigrant Visa”, curiously this had happened mostly based on racial profiling and also because citizens of Canada and of the US did not have exit records when crossing the land/maritime border with each other country, they would see a number of entry records to the US but no exit records, a situation out of my control and very unfair to me as a Canadian citizen, until both Congress and the House of Commons enacted legislation to produce exit records for each other, effective July 2019. I am married now to a US citizen and my husband successfully applied and obtained his Nexus card. The agency probably knows our association, and didn’t have any issues with issuing Nexus to my husband. I am reluctant to apply until I get further clarification from all the agencies involved, because the wording used isn’t enough information to clarify what they mean by “immigration violations”.
Thank you for your input.
Hi John! My dad, 82, was convicted of petty theft in 1959 and GE emailed after the interview that they wanted proof of disposition. Went to courthouse and got doc from Archives saying there was no record and went to courthouse and got certified proof of name search and nothing came up (only goes back to 1979). Sent both documents to the email provided. When can we expect for a response time? Thank you.
My question disappeared! GE requested disposition on a misdemeanor case from 1959. We sent what we could. How long does it take for them to respond once the paperwork is sent to them?
I do not have any information on processing times.
Hi John – In a rush to make a flight in 2004, my husband accidentally forgot to remove his gun (for which he has a concealed carry permit) from his carry-on bag and attempted to go through security. Yeah … oops … a stupid mistake made by many law-abiding, rushing travelers who legally carry weapons (he has a concealed carry permit and has passed a Federal firearms background check). Of course, the gun was detected. He received a “Notice of Violation alleging a violation of 49 C.F.R. § 1540.111 of the Transportation Security Regulations.” The TSA deemed that “pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 46301 and 49 C.F.R. § 1503.29(d)” that he would be “assessed a Civil Penalty for violation of 1540.11.” He paid the hefty $1500 fine, and according to TSA, the matter was “considered closed.”
Will the incident described above make him ineligible for Global Entry and/or or TSA Pre? Thanks.
CBP may deny on security grounds. CBP may even deny you under a ‘close association’ rationale.
I would like to apply for sentri I was detained at the border with a illegal person but was not charged or in prison this was 2020 would i be eligible to apply or would i get rejected?
You were likely marked for a customs violation. Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
It’s interesting to see that the CBP Ombudsman’s office may have an unofficial policy regarding one-time minor violations for Trusted Traveler Program eligibility. It’s reassuring to know that applicants with a single, minor violation from over ten years ago and a solid rehabilitation history can still qualify for the program. It’s important to follow the official eligibility criteria, but it’s good to hear that there may be some flexibility for minor infractions.
You have clearly misread. No one said anything about more than one infraction. I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I was convicted of possession of marijuana in 1992, 31 years ago. Is that likely to disqualify me from getting approved for Global Entry?
Any criminal conviction can result in a denial. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi John, Im considering applying for GE, in 2013/14 I was arrested for a domestic dispute with my partner and removed from the apt. I was in jail for 12hrs, I paid my bail and at hour court appearance he requested the charges be dropped, which they were. I had prescription drugs in my pocket, for which I had the prescription for and provided that to the judge. When we showed up to court, my public defender had me wait outside and said “easy, just wait here, ill take care of this. ill be right back” 10mins later he came back and said I everything was dropped/dismissed/cleared, and I free to go. Will this disqualify me?
Thank you for your time
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
Hi – I applied for Global Entry back in 2021, but due to limited appointment availability I just had my interview yesterday. I was approved but wanted to share my story here as I spent a good amount of time researching getting Global Entry with two misdemeanors. I went in fully expecting to be denied but luckily I was not. My situation may be unique but I still wanted to share.
I have two misdemeanors on my record. I was arrested for underage drinking in 2001 (I was 17 at the time) and then again for possession of marijuana under an once in 2004 (knocked down to “disorderly conduct” in court). The Global Entry agent who approved my application first thanked me for telling the truth about my convictions (as he said a lot of people lie then are surprised when they are denied), but then said that per guidelines, he may not be able to approve me with two misdemeanors and that I could submit for reconsideration if that happened (and that I would be a good candidate). He went ahead and gave me a paper with instructions on how to do this…which included obtaining court dispositions. But he also said with the age of the convictions, I might be approved…it all depends what came up when he ran my information. He asked if I wanted to hang around for the results (of course I did) and about 20 minutes later, he gave me the thumbs up that I was approved. I received my approval letter to my Trusted Traveler account shortly afterwards.
I fretted over this interview for more than a year as I kind of need Global Entry for work and did not disclose my convictions to my employer due to their age (22 and 19 years ago) as most employer background checks don’t go back more than 7 years. So if you are worried, best thing I can say is still go for it…you never know how it will turn out.
Good to hear. However, if you had an incident as a minor, you may not have been charged as an adult. You may only have one conviction then. You have not indicated that you submitted any paperwork on these incidents.
Hello John! Love your help with this! I just had a quuick question…. I applied for Sentri over a year and a half ago. I got mine within a couple of months, and immediately applied for my wife and kids. The wife got her sentri within…. 16 hours. However, the kids have been stuck on “pending approval” for over 14 months now. At this point, I dont even know if I should just cancel (if i can) the application and try again.
Thanks for your time!
I am not involved in the application process as I am typically contacted when someone wants to request reconsideration after being denied or revoked. I cannot help with processing times or getting an interview.
Is it possible that CBP can use previous inclusion on no fly list to deny global entry ( I have been removed from both no fly list and selectee list). I have no criminal record and haven’t violated any immigration/customs laws.
Yes. You could be denied on security grounds. It’s unclear when DHS clears its database with these issues.
In 2021, I accidently carried a fresh pear in my carryon bag while returning to the USA. After reading the questions, I remembered I had the fruit and declared the item at the counter. I was taken to the hold area, the pear was confiscated as it were radioactive, and my bags were subjected to a special x-ray inspection. I travelled 6 months later, and I was asked to go through the special hold area again. I did not lose my Global Entry. I have not traveled out of the country since.
My Global Entry is expiring in six months. So it needs to be renewed. There is a question on the application form: “Have you ever been found in violation of customs laws?” “Answer Yes or No, and provide an explanation if yes.”
Was this a violation since I declared it? Or can I answer no?
That sounds like a customs violation to me.
My Sentry was revoked in 2014 after being a member since 1999. never received a specific reason as to why it was revoked they provided a laundry list of things i could have done. none apply. I wrote to the Ombudsman’s and received the same response. my wife continued having sentry as well as my kids and close family members. when my wife renewed they revoked hers and gave her the same list of possible things she could have done. my kids continue having sentry. we attempted to renew their applications and they were approved. we have re applied numerous times since 2014 however no change. at some point my Father was denied his renewal for a DUI he had over 40 yrs ago. my mother and siblings that at some point we all used the same address they continue to have Sentry. any idea as to what we can do as we have family and properties in TJ and would benefit from this program. Thank you
CBP has denied or revoked Global Entry or SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess.
I’ve been a Flight Attendant for over 15 years, travelled the world. A friend recently convinced me to apply for Global Entry. I was shocked when my application was approved, but I failed the interview. It was for stupid, petty crimes I committed as a juvenile over 30 years ago! My adult record is spotless, but as a young teenager, I got into my fair share of stupidity and trouble. I even hired an attorney to clear it all up, and he assured me, my juvenile record was expunged. Not according to the FBI. When Global Entry runs your finger prints, it’s your entire criminal life. The officer told me, we have to make sure you’re a “trusted traveler”… I was basically told I wasn’t, while wearing my uniform, and I just travelled into the USA from a international flight that I worked. Not only was I embarrassed, but I was confused and angry. I would like to know what you think about this scenario? Thank you
Any criminal conviction can result in a denial. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If this is your only incident you may have a good case for reinstatement if CBP does not approve.
SB-731 This law seals up your records. It’s pure utter discrimination against any one with criminal record. Your being discriminated and considered a High risk traveler under there own basis. Because you went to prison has nothingness to do with Crossing the border..Absolutely nothing.. There doing this to just have control. They could ope all the other lanes and let people through timely but these agents think there highly intelligent and knowledgeable on what car you drive your answers to there stupid questions.. It’s seriously a joke .. There not ever going to stop what ever there looking for and it’s waste of all our time. Under the new law it should help us and if not sue them for discrimination .Here is the definition
1.
the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of ethnicity, age, sex, or disability
Considering someone immediately denied because of any convictions and immediately find you a high risk person is categorized you .. It’s discrimination and illegal abuse of power SB-731 use it next month
CBP sets its own standards relating to the program. Of course they have miles to go in terms of improving customer service. My understanding is that CBP is not bound by a state record sealing law. That is why I always recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the dispositions for these incidents.
Hi I was denied to day 06 08 2023 I got arrested in 1986 for breaking a window they say it was vandalism I’m 60 years old now and it’s very sad I never thought that was in my records in 1986 I went to court and they make me pay the window
I was denied sentry because I was arrested in 1986 for breaking a window in a fight I went to court for that, and they make me pay the window so I thought that was not in my records I’ve been an excellent citizen since no bad records at all, it’s something I can do. Thank you.
Any criminal conviction can result in a denial. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If this is your only incident you may have a good case for reinstatement if CBP does not approve.
Here’s a heads up for all the soon-to-be global travelers: securing a global entry interview isn’t as easy as it sounds. Sometimes, these enrollment centers can turn you away if you haven’t made a prior appointment. When I was applying for the TSA Global Entry program with my family, I used ttptracker.com. They have a free plan that alerts you as long as you’re in front of a computer. It’s not the only option out there, but I found it to be the most convenient.
I was wrongly arrested for misdemeanor assault. The charges will definitely be dropped as I have no record at 60 years old. My Global Entry was revoked within days and after a short delay, I’ve noticed I don’t have pre-check (even though unlike GOES, pending charges don’t seem to be a reason for revoking pre-check. What are my chances of getting GOES and pre-check back after charges are dismissed?
Nexus question. I have a M4 (telephone harrasement pleaded to disorederl conduct) from 1986 and no issues getting GE and got renewed with no interview. I live near the Windsor crossing and go to Canada a lot and wold love to have Nexus for getting into Canada.
If I apply for Nexus, do they usually have the same policy as GE for old infractions? And if they were to decline me due to it, would that affect my global entry? I don’t mind if I don’t get Nexus but don’t want to lose my GE
NEXUS and Global Entry are both part of the Trusted Traveler program. CBP uses the same approval criteria for both.
Hello I have several family members that gave my home address for the delivery of the Physical sentri/glogal entry card. Am i Liable if they commit any violation? will i be removed from the program if they do?
thank you for your help
CBP has denied or revoked Global Entry or SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. This has happen with addresses shared by multiple family members. How to correct that is anyone’s guess.
I lied on my global entry application by claiming I didn’t have a criminal record. I was conditionally approved along with the rest of my family. We scheduled interviews together and traveled to the airport where everyone else was approved and I was denied. Do you think I am “permanently denied” for lying?
You should declare all criminal incidents. If you decide to re-apply, I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I was denied because of an arrest over 20 years ago because someone (who must have looked similar) had stolen my driver’s license and used it to pass bad checks. The investigation made it clear that the person being sought was not me (including the eye witnesses viewing my photo and saying it was not me and evidence that I was in school out of state at the time of the events). The prosecutor’s office dropped the charges and the court entered a Nolle Prosequi, expressly stating that the investigation revealed that I as not the culprit. This was in GA where they categorized the disposition as “other” (whatever that means). The GE reviewer stated that he/she considers “other” disposition to be a conviction and that I was a risk because I failed to disclose the conviction. There was no conviction to reveal, so I am at a loss to understand this.
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the court has purged the records, you should ask for a certified index-based search of cases in the court. That should confirm that the old records were purged.
I got a minor in possession of Marijuana in 2010 and a DUI for marijuana in 2011. Been over ten years since both. I have all of my court records of the DUI. I am now on my 4th Sentri application. Should I give up? I cross the border daily for work and I am desperate for my Sentri card.
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
Hello! I had an issue with customs in 2017 (6 years ago), and was stopped with mushrooms coming from CA into the US on a college graduation road trip. I took the hit for my friends with customs. I would like to apply and wondering how much I should explain in my application or simply state the facts of the story, and if I have any chance of being approved even though it hasn’t been 10 years. Also, am I risking my TSA precheck eligibility by applying for GE? Because I would much rather not risk that at all due to its convenience and my frequent domestic travel.
It is my understanding that CBP has never communicated with the public how to wipe out a customs violation. Customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. TSA PreCheck is run by TSA, not CBP.
i have 3 dui charges that were dropped to reckless driving over 10 years ago from when i was 19 to 23 years old. my application was denied . and have not had one arrest since or infraction since
should i apply for reconsideration?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I received a customs seizure letter 3 years ago and the letter stated I could do nothing and customs would destroy the mail which is what I did. I received nothing further. I have a tsa precheck interview this week, will this come up? I’m not sure if they put a violation under my name or not.
TSA PreCheck is managed by TSA, not by CBP. TSA has separate eligibility standards.
Got arrested in 2016 for battery – no complaint filed, arrest deleted, and than again in 2018 for child endangerment – case dismissed. Will I get denied for either sentri or global entry? Both arrests lead to no complaint filed or case dismissed so I have never been convicted of anything.
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for these incidents.
My sentri got revoked about 10 years ago. I was crossing the border and had a marihuana pipe on me with very minimal residue. My family’s sentri was also revoked but after a meeting with CBP it was reinstated for them. I am married now and my wife has sentri. I’d like to reapply but I’m concerned that if it gets denied that they might revoke my wife’s as well through association. Should I even try? Is there any likelihood I would be able to get it again?
CBP does not share its ‘close association’ criteria. Your guess is as good as mine.
I am a natural-born U.S. citizen and I have had SENTRI since 2017, along with my two children. My wife was denied back then because she entered the country illegally as a child 30+ years ago. Through our marriage she obtained her permanent residency (2014) and citizenship (2017). Today at my daughter’s SENTRI renewal they permanently revoked my SENTRI because I had aided and abetted my wife while she was an illegal alien. The officer said my wife could possibly reapply next year after her 10 year bar expires, and I have one year to file an appeal on my decision. Do you think either of these are likely? I don’t have any convictions for anything other than a speeding ticket years and years ago, my wife has no convictions other than the immigration process to become legal.
If you were out of status in any way prior to obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’ I do not know a way to counter that assertion. I have never heard of CBP having an unofficial 10-year policy or not.
I have a dismissed theft charge from 2007 which has since expunged. I have never been arrested for it or convicted. I said no to arrests and convictions on the application. Should I try to find the court disposition even if its expunged? I haven’t been conditionally approved yet.
Consider declaring all arrests, regardless of any expungement. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I have a dismissed theft charge from 2007 which has since expunged. I have never been arrested for it or convicted. I said no to arrests and convictions on the application. Should I try to find the court disposition even if its expunged? I haven’t been conditionally approved yet.
Hi, thank you for sharing all of this excellent information for us.
I am a European citizen living on the border, I have permanent Mexican residency. My wife and children are Mexican citizens and we are interested in SENTRI.
I have a DUI conviction from 15 years ago (no jail time, just a fine), and have recently successfully renewed my B1/B2 10 year visa without the need of a follow-up interview, which surprised me, as I thought I would need one. I understand this can affect my eligibility for the SENTRI program.
My questions is: Would be better for my wife and children to apply first without me (as they have had no issues regarding immigration or crimes) and then later try myself (providing they were accepted), so not to affect their chances.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition, minutes, or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. I cannot speculate on your family members’ chances of success.
I have a single DUI Misdemeanor from October 2013, no additional charges since. Should I start my application now or wait until October this year to begin the process. I have all court disposition docs etc…
Hi! Feb 2022 I mistakenly had my pistol in my carry on going through security. I had a valid concealed carry license so nothing much came from it the day of. They told me to put it in my truck and I still flew that day. All in all, I paid a reduced TSA fine after speaking with their attorney and there was a small fine from the city and they let us know this will not impact our criminal record. Of course GE was revoked and TSA precheck followed due to the connection. Should I reapply for GE or is it way too soon only being 1.5 years?
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
You mentioned “close association”. I had a friend of mine come to US from Canada and she was flagged for something in her past and CBP asked if applied to me as well. She loosely said it did. They called me on the phone just to verify I was expecting her. I said yes. They called me later to say she had been denied entry. Later she told me she can’t come back for 10 years. I have since applied for a Nexus card (I already have TTP) and been approved for the interview. Would they already know that association before my preliminary approval or will it come up in the interview? Is it possible they could arrest me at the interview based on her statements?
I cannot speculate on this as it is highly fact specific.
I have a single DUI Misdemeanor from October 2013, no additional charges since. Should I start my application now or wait until October this year to begin the process. I have all court disposition docs etc… Any advice would be appreciated.
I would wait the full ten years.
Appreciate the attention and advice. I will wait a couple of months. Thank you.
You’re welcome!
I have two previous arrests but never was convicted. Both dismissed and destroyed. Both over 10 years ago, one being 17 years ago. I sent all this info over about this and the court cases. Would they ever overturn their decision to deny me? My wife is approved.
If your records show convictions, CBP could deny. I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the courthouse has destroyed it as an old record, you should still get some form of certified index-based search of the records.
Hi,
I have a petty charge charge that was dropped last month in California. I have global entry already, but up for renewal. Will this disqualify me?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
What really seems unfair to me is having had Global Entry/TSA pre-check recently REVOKED, and taken away from me. For a couple successful years with G.E. status during the height of the pandemic. I did help and contributed in transporting the many COVID19 vaccines and PPE worldwide. Saving many lives as a professional cargo airline pilot. There are several reasons I say that this is very unfair. And yes, I will toot my own horn here. Ok, so I did try and import a smaller quantity (24) of Cuban cigars via the internet, and the CBP/DHS seized the package at the JFK airport. This was AFTER they had said that there actually was no seizure. And now there was. Keep in mind that the President Obama administration had legally allowed (in September 2016) the legal importation of Cuban cigars for personal use. And, now it’s not?! Also, I have had a stellar record with nothing that I’m aware of any other egregious law or U.S. customs violations, EVER. In short, the CBP/DHS TTS, they have a one shot opportunity for you to state for your reconsideration’s request. And, with NO possibilities to add supporting documentation that they’ve falsely referenced to me. No Ombudsman address nor e-mail address is provided any longer for this either. This is just such a huge fault of our country’s government getting involved in people’s lives screwing them. So disappointing. I’m sure I won’t get my Global Entry and TSA pre-check back anytime soon.
They have given denials over Cuban Cigars in the past. I have had a successful reinstatement request with one of these issues. Several years should have passed for the incident as CBP likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents.
I have a felony conviction (white collar) from 2002. I was denied global entry at my interview today (it was unclear on the website if I would be as it uses words like may and could so I figured I’d give it a shot). Would I also be ineligible for SENTRY and TSA-Pre?
SENTRI is also administered under the same Trusted Traveler program. I would anticipate a further denial due to the felony conviction. TSA PreCheck is administered by TSA. I am unclear what the TSA criteria is.
I had three felonies for drug offenses way back in 2008. I had my convictions set aside in 2013 and have had all my civil rights restored. I have also held a government security clearance since 2013. However, I am still denied Global Entry. Pre-check on the other hand is always an instant approval.
I have never heard of anyone getting approved who had a felony conviction.
I recently applied for global entry. I was conditionally approved and went to my appointment. Everything went well until the next day. I got a phone call from the interviewer. He said I was denied due to having been fingerprinted before. I had completely forgotten that it ever happened as it was, approximately 35 years ago. I was bartending and served someone under age in a sting operation. The police called my boss and said they wanted to talk to me and my boss said go see what they want, I walked over to the police station, very small town, I was not arrested , or told I was even being charged with anything. I do recall them fingerprinting me now after being reminded. They never gave me any papers of any kind and I still am unclear if something actually was charged to me. At the time my boss said if there was a fine he would pay it. He thought it all was very funny. my interviewer suggested I request reconsideration when I told him what happened. What are the chances that it will work? Or should I reapply?
I would recommend obtaining certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the courthouse has destroyed it as an old record, you should still get some form of certified index-based search of the records.
I have a DUI from 2018, I did everything required on a timely matter and haven’t had any other issues after that. Is it worth to apply? Can it be expunged from my record? And would that help at all?
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. I have seen cases of people with Trusted Traveler program denials getting approved for TSA PreCheck.
Are customs violations in other countries reported to US Customs and Border?
Excellent question, Bill! I did have one reinstatement case that involved a person having a customs violation in Canada that was hunting related. My guess was that due to the proximity to the U.S. border, my client did have his global entry revoked.
5 years ago a tiny roach from a joint was found in my car when crossing with global entry. I admitted to having smoked pot in the past. They confiscated my card and sent me on my way. Any chance I could get reinstated. How do I handle the interview?
You should declare all customs violations. Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
A few Years ago (probably like 6 years) my sister in law’s boy friend was in house arrest in our house for a few months (caught at border with drugs, I was not living in that house back then) Can I apply for Sentri? or what if a move to another place, do I have to wait a certain time to apply?
CBP has denied or revoked Global Entry or SENTRI applicants in the past under a ‘close association is an indication of risk’ basis. How to correct that is anyone’s guess. You could be denied given that you were all presumably using the same address.
I have a customs violation (not declaring clothes, souvenirs etc. that I purchased when I was in abroad) in year 1989/1990 when I was about 20 years old and I paid a fine for this violation. Its been many years but I can’t remember if it was in Canada or the US but I recall paying the fine in Canada…..
Since then, I have lived abroad and travelled internationally and fortunately have been able to keep a clean record during these 33 years.
I am a dual citizen US and Canada and recently applied for Nexus. The reason for Nexus is that I currently live in the States and wanted to apply for Nexus so that I could visit family in Canada. At the time, I filled out the application rather quickly and knew I would need to wait 12-14 months for processing.
I was lucky enough to get conditional approval and will need to set up an interview.
In the meantime, I went through my application again and I noticed the question – Under Background Questions:
“Have you ever been found in violation of customs or immigration laws or other federal import laws” – which I put No. Unfortunately, I did the application in haste so..
Will this prevent my chances of getting the Nexus card? I am afraid during the interview I may get bombarded with questions regarding this that I may have difficulty answering….
How long does Canadian and US customs keep records of this kind?
Any advise would be much appreciated.
I had a trespassing arrest from 1984 (39 years ago) when I went back into my own condo to retrieve some personal photos and record collection after a messy divorce in which I lost my personal residence (that I had bought and paid for on my own.) Adjudication was withheld, record was supposedly sealed, and I was ordered two months un-supervised probation by the court. Yet, this arrest record shows up on my FBI report. Would this be grounds for a Global Entry denial, or is it worth applying for?
Any criminal conviction can result in a denial. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If this is your only incident you may have a good case for reinstatement if CBP does not approve.
I applied over 10 years ago for sentri was denied because of a deported spouse but my record is clean. I want to now apply for global entry because i will be doing ministry work overseas. All of my spouses family has sentri so not sure why it did not affect them.
If your spouse was out of status or in any way prior to obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’ I do not know a way to counter that assertion.
My sister is currently in the process of renewing her SENTRI card, although I am a little concerned since her military discharge (DD 214) is a General Discharge and reads “Drug Abuse” under reason of discharge. Should she even let them know that she served in the military since profile employment record has not been updated? If military service pops out on background checks, would they even review military discharge (DD 214)? Key factor, she went through a Non Judicial Punishment Article 15, without formally charging her at a court martial.
Thanks for the helpful Information!!!!
I am not involved in the application process. She should answer all questions truthfully, however.
I had a minor department of agriculture violation in 2019 because I did not declare blood sausage or black pudding, should I request reconsideration or should I wait for 10 years.
Unfortunately, customs or agricultural violations seem to stay on a person’s record forever. CBP generally likes to see the passage of time with no further negative incidents before reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess.
I had a misdemeanor DUI in Dec 2003, Dec 2006 and in Feb 2014. These have all been updated to non-convictions.
Do you think I may have a shot at GE if I wait till it’s been 10yrs since the last one?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval who had more than one misdemeanor conviction.
I have applied for GE and had an arrest 40 years ago for assault, that never when to trial the case shows no disposition. After my interview CBP is asking for court disposition papers for a case that never went to court.
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I have a family member recently arrested by the DEA on charges of drug possession and sale. He is asking me to sign for him in order to post bail. Could this affect my sentri being revoked?
If I post bail on a family member for federal charges can my sentri be revoked.
I am Permanent Resident (green card) since 2017. In 2021 I was charged with domestic violence case which was dismissed under 769.4a in 2022 after 1 year of reporting probation and few other court requirements. Is it now safe to apply for CBP Global Entry? Can I re-enter in US after international travel without GE just in case if travel is required in an emergency? I have all court disposition documents to present if immigration officer asks.
Regarding your travel question, please consult with an attorney who practices immigration and criminal law to properly determine if your prior conviction would cause a re-entry problem. For global entry, CBP generally likes to see the passage of time without further negative incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. In interviews, I heard they used to tell people to wait ten years. That was said to people unofficially and not in writing. As this is a recent event, I do not believe I can help you achieve any results.
Good evening! I moved to the US in 2001 with a tourist visa, but I overstayed. Now, I am a citizen. However, in 2002, I received a DUI with a blood alcohol level of .10. There was no accident, injury, or fatality involved. It was during a 4th of July weekend in Hermosa Beach when the police pulled me over. The judge later reduced it to a “wet reckless” driving charge. I understand that I must report the DUI, even though it occurred 22 years ago. But do I also need to report that I overstayed my entry to the States? Is overstaying a violation of immigration laws that I should disclose on the application when asked? Thank you very much for your time and response.
Overstaying is a violation of immigration laws. Declare the information as CBP will want to know the details.
I have been asked by a family member who was arrested by DEA and is in federal custody if I will sign for his release (bail) from custody while case is pending. Would this affect my Sentri to get revoked.
I have a family member recently arrested by the DEA. He is asking me to sign for him in order to post bail. Could this affect my sentri being revoked?
It could happen. It seems like a stretch, but CBP may deny under a ‘close association’ assumption.
I had a misdemeanor (shoplifting) charge with a Bond Forfeiture disposition 48 years ago. What are my chances of being approved for GE?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the courts no longer have the records, you can get a certified database search from the courthouse records department indicating that it has no cases with your name/DOB. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I had a hit and run accident which i was the one who left the scene. Was contacted by Highway Patrol the next day. 3 days later in the border my Sentri was taken away and i need to schedule an appointment 7 days later. Was my Sentri taken away because of the hit and run so soon??
It sounds like you were arrested. That could cause a revocation.
Hi,
I had DUI in 2003-not convicted. Will I be denied GE?
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I have two citations I received almost 5 years ago for “INTOX LIQUOR SCENIC LOOKOUT” and “ENTER CLOSED PUB PRK” according to the court documents. They seemed like small things to me, but I did have to pay a fine and do 20 hours community service. The original arrest was for “Criminal Prop Damage IV-Knowingly damages” but it was dismissed with prejudice, and I received the two citations instead. I was looking to apply for the GE, would these be minor enough to not effect my chances? Should I try to apply or just wait until 10 years pass?
I have never heard of anyone receiving approval with more than one misdemeanor conviction.
Hi Mr. Manley,
In 1974 I received a ticket from a local police officer for what I believe was trespassing. I was not finger printed nor taken to the police station, but It did require a court appearance and a $50 fine. I am not sure if the ticket was for trespassing as I did not really pay much attention to the details. A friend of mine who is an attorney suggested that it might be a misdemeanor or simply a non-criminal infraction (like a parking ticket). I requested records from the local Superior Court, sheriff’s office, police dept, FBI, and the California DOJ; they all responded to me that according to their records I did not have a criminal history. I would like to apply for Global Entry, but I am not sure as how to fill out the arrest/criminal record section as I do not know if I had been arrested or just issued a ticket. Should I put down misdemeanor and explain my my situation if I get an interview?
Your thoughts would be appreciated.
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the courts no longer have the records, you can get a certified database search from the courthouse records department indicating that it has no cases with your name/DOB. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
For close association, my sentry and my family’s were revoked in 2020. My husband has security clearance since 2021. we all have clean records. Is there a possibility we can have our sentri back?
If you cannot determine the reasons for the denial, consider filing a FOIA. Feel free to contact me directly if you would like representation.
I was ticketed (no arrest) for Reckless Driving in 2018 and plead Nolo Contendere. My Global Entry renewal was denied in 2021 with no explanation. I presume it was because I answered incorrectly on the renewal by stating “no convictions”. At the time, I wrongfully thought I wasn’t “convicted”. Should I go through the process of having my records sealed by the court or just reapply and answer correctly. This is my only misdemeanor.
CBP generally likes to see the passage of time without further adverse incidents before approving or reinstating an applicant. How long a wait is anyone’s guess. In interviews, I heard they used to tell people to wait ten years. That was said to people unofficially and not in writing. CBP looks at the facts and circumstances.
Hello, I applied to GE in July 2023 but was denied due to violations with CBP. The officer informed me that prior to becoming a legal citizen of the US, I had stayed in an illegal status for one month. She mentioned that I could apply again once 10 years have passed; however, she did not provide specifics on when that will be. I have attempted to appeal or inquire about the timeline for reapplication, but unfortunately, they cannot provide me with that information.
I have never heard of a 10-year policy regarding immigration violations. If you were out of status in any way before obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’ I do not know a way to counter that assertion.
Uk citizen applied for GE with one arrest in 1982 for drunk and disorderly charge but case was dismissed. No further arrests ever and been entering USA on Esta for many many years. Disclosed arrest on GE application. Question : will the GE go through as am waiting but more importantly would it affect my esta entry? I’ve answered esta correctly and always acted within the law. Worried I could get turned around by cbp because I disclosed this very minor arrest from 40 years ago which was case dismissed with no conviction? Thx
I have no information on a connection between ESTA and GE. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I have never heard of anyone who had a felony conviction getting approved.
Wondering if my husband will be denied Global Entry? He is American by birth. He lived in Canada as a young adult & has a marijuana possession charge from Canada in 1987 when he was 23 years old (nearly 40 years ago). ***He will disclose this on his Global Entry application.*** With an old possession charge from Canada will he be denied Global Entry? —- He has no other criminal record in Canada or the USA – He recently ran his both full fingerprinted criminal background checks, the FBI check is clean, and RCMP Canada lists the 1987 marijuana possession charge as a “narcotic possession” charge since back then, marijuana was under the narcotics act of Canada. We know he needs to be honest, since when he gets to the interview, the border agent will have access to the US and Canada criminal databases.
You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident.
I am currently a Trusted Traveler through Global Entry and am renewing my application. It seems like the questions are much deeper than when I applied a few years ago. I have a drinking under age violation that I plead no contest and was on probation for a year 30 years ago. Also while under 21 (almost 30 years ago) i was arrested for falsification of ID and obstruction of official business and plead no contest to obstruction. Lastly, when going through customs from Spain to US, I didn’t realize I had an apple at the bottom of my backpack. They made me sit down and had a talking to with me that I am held to a higher standard as global entry, that I must not do that again and let me go without implication. Should I put all of this on the renewal application and will I be approved?
Declare all incidents per the application. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it, ie. the minutes) so you can show CBP the disposition for these incidents.
I had become a permanent resident back in 2005. I also renewed my green card in 2015. In both applications I always said I had no convictions and nothing was ever mentioned otherwise. So both were a breeze and were approved easily. 21 years later, I come to find out in 2003 I was pulled over for running a red light. After checking my license, the officer said I had a suspended license for not paying a ticket. He cited me and let me go. I went to court I remembered and paid a fine. Up until recently, when applying for GE, I learned that it’s considered a misdemeanor. I checked the courthouse and requested records but they show nothing. The courthouse said after 20 years they do not keep some records. Since nothing came of it during my green card applications, should I even mention this? I already submitted my GE application and got a conditionally-approved interview. Since the suspended license was originally tied to a simple traffic infraction (running a red light), an attorney thinks that it most likely won’t show. Should I even mention this in the interview?
Declare all misdemeanors and/or criminal incidents. You should obtain certified copies of the court disposition or transcript (different courthouses use different names for it) so you can show CBP the disposition for this incident. If the courts no longer have the records, you can get a certified database search from the courthouse records department indicating that it has no cases with your name/DOB. You could consider applying for reinstatement if denied.
I think my husband might be denied Global Entry? American by birth, but lived in Canada as a young adult & has a marijuana possession charge from Canada in 1987 when he was 23 years old (nearly 40 years ago) which he WILL disclose on his Global Entry application. – With an old possession charge from Canada will he be denied Global Entry? —- He has no other criminal record in Canada or the USA – He recently ran his both full fingerprinted criminal background checks, the FBI check is clean, and RCMP Canada lists the 1987 marijuana possession charge as a “narcotic possession” charge since back then, marijuana was under the narcotics act of Canada. We know he needs to be honest, since when he gets to the interview, the border agent will have access to the US and Canada criminal databases.
I applied for the sentri and it was denied because I stayed in the United States for my daughter to make the family petition and my status adjustment. The officer told me that I had to wait the 10 years since my last border crossing. Will that affect my immigration status or will I be able to appeal?
I have never heard of a 10-year policy regarding immigration violations. If you were out of status in any way before obtaining a green card, CBP has asserted that as a reason to deny under ‘immigration violations.’ I do not know a way to counter that assertion.
I had become a permanent resident back in 2005. I also renewed my green card in 2015. In both applications I always said I had no convictions and nothing was ever mentioned otherwise. So both were a breeze and were approved easily. 21 years later, I come to find out in 2003 I was pulled over for running a red light. After checking my license, the officer said I had a suspended license for not paying a ticket. He cited me and let me go. I went to court I remembered and paid a fine. Up until recently, when applying for GE, I learned that it’s considered a misdemeanor. I checked the courthouse and requested records but they show nothing. The courthouse said after 20 years they do not keep some records. Since nothing came of it during my green card applications, should I even mention this? I already submitted my GE application and got a conditionally-approved interview. Since the suspended license was originally tied to a simple traffic infraction (running a red light), an attorney thinks that it most likely won’t show. Should I even mention this in the interview?
Global entry has asked for outcomes of past expunged records from 20 years ago. Where can I find the case results?
You can get them from the courthouse. I have never heard of anyone receiving approval for more than one misdemeanor conviction.