As a Global Entry member, you enjoy the luxury of expedited customs clearance when entering the United States. However, with these privileges comes the responsibility of adhering to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, including those related to agricultural products. Violating these rules can lead to severe consequences, including the revocation of your Global Entry membership.
At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we have represented numerous clients facing Global Entry revocation due to agricultural violations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through common agricultural violations, how to stay compliant, and what to do if your membership is at risk.
Common Agricultural Violations and Why They Matter
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and CBP enforce strict rules around the importation of agricultural products to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases that could harm U.S. agriculture. Many travelers unknowingly commit violations by bringing in prohibited items without declaring them.
Here are the most common violations:
1. Bringing Prohibited Fruits and Vegetables
Violation: Many fruits and vegetables are prohibited because they can carry pests or diseases.
Example: Citrus fruits, apples, and mangoes are some of the most commonly confiscated items at U.S. borders.
Why it matters: A single infected fruit can introduce harmful pests like fruit flies, which can devastate entire crops and lead to massive agricultural losses.
2. Transporting Meat and Animal Products
Violation: Certain meats and animal products are banned due to the risk of diseases like Foot-and-Mouth Disease and African Swine Fever.
Example: Travelers bringing sausages, cured meats, or dairy products from abroad.
Why it matters: Even processed meats can carry dangerous pathogens, and a disease outbreak could severely impact livestock industries.
3. Carrying Plants and Seeds
Violation: Importing plants, seeds, and soil without the necessary permits can introduce invasive species and pathogens.
Example: Bringing potted plants, seeds, or cut flowers into the U.S. without following the proper importation guidelines.
Why it matters: Invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems, leading to costly eradication efforts and long-term environmental damage.
4. Unreported Agricultural Items
Violation: Failing to declare agricultural products on your customs form, even if you believe the items are harmless.
Example: Forgetting to declare items such as packaged food, herbs, or seeds that are tucked away in luggage.
Why it matters: Even seemingly harmless items may carry pests or pathogens that could threaten U.S. agriculture. Failure to declare them is a violation, regardless of intent.
5. Unauthorized Import of Fresh Flowers
Violation: Fresh flowers, often found in bouquets or leis, may harbor insects or diseases if not properly inspected.
Example: Bringing a bouquet of flowers or a floral lei into the U.S. without the required inspection.
Why it matters: Even decorative flowers can carry harmful pests that could spread rapidly, endangering crops and native plant species.
Staying Compliant: How to Protect Your Global Entry Status
To avoid costly penalties and protect your Global Entry membership, it’s essential to stay informed and be proactive when traveling. Here’s how:
1. Know the Regulations Before You Travel
- Research: Before your trip, visit the CBP and USDA APHIS websites for up-to-date lists of prohibited and restricted agricultural products.
- Plan ahead: Avoid purchasing or carrying items that could lead to issues at customs. If you’re unsure, leave them behind or consult the CBP Agricultural Products Guide.
2. Declare All Agricultural Items
- Honesty is crucial: Always declare any agricultural products on your customs declaration form, even if you’re not sure whether they’re allowed. It’s better to be safe than risk penalties for non-disclosure.
- Accuracy matters: Be specific about the types and quantities of items you’re declaring. Even if items are allowed, failure to declare them can result in a violation.
3. Understand Permits and Inspections
- Permits may be required: Some agricultural items can be imported if you have the proper permits. Check with APHIS before bringing any plants, seeds, or other items that may require documentation.
- Expect inspections: Be prepared for a CBP officer to inspect your agricultural products. Cooperate fully during the process, as any failure to comply can lead to serious penalties.
4. Avoid High-Risk Items
- Fruits and vegetables: Unless you’re certain they’re allowed, it’s best to avoid bringing fresh fruits and vegetables into the U.S.
- Meats and animal products: Do not attempt to bring any meat, dairy, or animal products unless they are explicitly allowed and properly declared.
- Plants and seeds: Refrain from bringing any plants, seeds, or soil without the appropriate permits.
5. Utilize Preclearance Services
- Preclearance locations: If you’re traveling from a country with U.S. preclearance facilities, take advantage of the opportunity to declare and inspect items before arriving in the U.S.
- Use your Global Entry privileges: While Global Entry offers expedited processing, remember that this privilege requires full compliance with all regulations.
Consequences of Violating Agricultural Regulations
Violating agricultural regulations can lead to severe penalties, including:
- Fines: Violations can result in fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the infraction.
- Confiscation: Prohibited items will be confiscated by CBP officers.
- Global Entry Revocation: Serious or repeated violations can lead to the revocation of your Global Entry membership, resulting in the loss of expedited customs clearance privileges.
At NSLF, we’ve helped many clients appeal Global Entry revocations due to agricultural violations, but it’s always better to avoid the issue altogether by staying compliant.
Protect Your Global Entry Membership by Staying Informed
Staying compliant with U.S. customs and agricultural regulations is crucial to maintaining your Global Entry membership. By understanding the common violations, declaring all agricultural items, and avoiding high-risk products, you can ensure a smooth re-entry into the U.S. and protect your Global Entry status.
If you face any issues related to agricultural violations or Global Entry revocation, the National Security Law Firm is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to guide you through the appeals process and defend your membership.
Our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service – Get Approved or Your Money Back!
At the National Security Law Firm, we understand how frustrating having your Global Entry denied or revoked can be. That’s why we offer our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service—designed to relieve the stress, handle every step of the appeal, and get you approved quickly. When you choose us, you’re putting your case in the hands of seasoned experts with a track record of success in Global Entry appeals.
Here’s what our comprehensive service includes:
- Guaranteed Approval or Your Money Back:
We are confident in our ability to secure your Global Entry on appeal—we guarantee it. If we fail, we’ll refund your money in full—no questions asked. Your success is our priority. - Quick and Easy Onboarding:
We respect your time. Our fast and straightforward electronic onboarding process takes less than 15 minutes. Once you’re on board, our experienced Global Entry lawyers handle everything, freeing you to focus on what matters most. - Complete Handling of Court Records:
Don’t worry about gathering court documents—we’ve got you covered. Our team will track down and obtain any necessary court records for your appeal, ensuring everything is in order and saving you the hassle. - Expert Analysis of Your Denial:
Unsure why your Global Entry was denied? Our team, with its deep experience in reviewing Security Threat Assessments (STAs) from years working for the government, will thoroughly analyze your case. - Guidance Through the Interview and Renewal Process:
Once your appeal is granted, we’ll continue to guide you through the Global Entry interview and renewal process, ensuring you’re fully prepared and know what to expect. - Insider Tips for Fast Interview Scheduling:
We know how to get your Global Entry interview scheduled quickly and at a convenient location. Our insider knowledge will help you navigate the process smoothly and without delay. - All of this is available for a flat, all-inclusive fee of $2,995.
No hidden charges, no surprises—just straightforward, experienced service from trusted Global Entry appeal lawyers.
With our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service, you’re backed by a team of dedicated attorneys who know the process inside and out. Contact us today to get started!
*The use of the word “guaranteed” in attorney advertisements refers explicitly to a refund policy and does not imply a guarantee of any particular outcome in your legal case. Legal cases are inherently unpredictable, and the result of any legal matter cannot be assured. The National Security Law Firm guarantees that you will receive a full refund of our legal fee if you do not obtain Global Entry on appeal. This guarantee applies solely to the refund and not to the success or outcome of your case.
Get Professional Help and Stay Informed: Join Our Free “Ask a Global Entry Lawyer” Facebook Group!
Have you recently faced a denial or revocation of your Global Entry membership? The appeals process can be complex and overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We invite you to join our “Ask a Global Entry Lawyer (Global Entry Q&A)” Facebook Group. In this dedicated space, you can get answers directly from experienced Global Entry lawyers and connect with others facing similar issues.
Why Join Our Facebook Group?
- Experienced Legal Advice for Free: Our skilled Global Entry lawyers are here to provide you with valuable insights, answer your questions, and guide you through the appeal process.
- Community Support: Connect with others who have gone through the same process. Share your experiences, learn from others’ stories, and get support from a community that understands your situation.
- Stay Up-to-Date: Get the latest updates on Global Entry policies, appeal procedures, and best practices to increase your chances of success.
- Easy Access: Simply join the group, post your questions, and get reliable advice from NSLF’s Global Entry lawyers.
Don’t face your Global Entry appeal alone. Join our “Free Global Entry Q&A (Ask a Global Entry Lawyer)” Facebook Group now and get the professional guidance you need to navigate the process confidently.
Explore Our Comprehensive Global Entry Resources
At the National Security Law Firm, we believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge and guidance they need to navigate the complex world of Global Entry. Whether you’ve faced a denial, are confused about your eligibility, or want to know how to maximize your case, we’ve got you covered. Our Global Entry practice area page links to dozens of detailed articles and blogs designed to answer your questions and help you feel confident in every step of the process.
What You’ll Find in Our Resource Library:
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Not sure where to start? Our FAQs cover everything from basic eligibility to what happens during the Global Entry interview. We break down common concerns and provide straightforward answers.
- Maximizing Your Global Entry Case: Learn expert strategies to strengthen your appeal, avoid common mistakes, and increase your chances of success. Our guides walk you through how to prepare your documentation, handle criminal records, and more.
- Understanding Your Denial: If your Global Entry was denied or revoked and you’re unsure why, we offer detailed resources to help you uncover the reasons and plan your next steps. Our blogs cover everything from criminal records to unexplained denials.
Our extensive collection of articles also covers specific issues like FOIA requests, traffic violations, customs violations, and Global Entry appeals. For a complete list of topics and resources, visit our Global Entry Appeals page and take advantage of the insights shared by our trusted team of Global Entry lawyers.
Our blog posts provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you confidently navigate your Global Entry appeal. For personalized answers and additional guidance, don’t forget to join our “Free Global Entry Q&A (Ask a Global Entry Lawyer)” Facebook Group and connect with our experienced Global Entry lawyers today!
Why Trust the National Security Law Firm?
1. The Insider Advantage
The National Security Law Firm (NSLF) is led by Brett O’Brien, a former Intelligence Law attorney with the Army’s counterintelligence agency. NSLF’s Global Entry team is trusted by countless clients to secure Global Entry privileges for those who have been denied or had their membership revoked. Brett O’Brien developed NSLF’s Global Entry program based on his extensive experience conducting Security Threat Assessments (STAs) for the Army. Global Entry investigations are a type of Security Threat Assessment. Brett’s deep involvement in overseeing these investigations gives NSLF a unique and trusted insider advantage in handling Global Entry appeals.
Don’t make the mistake of trusting civilian lawyers who lack military or intelligence law expertise. They often miss the critical firsthand experience needed to conduct and review STAs for the government—knowledge that is essential for effectively representing you in your appeal or revocation. When you choose NSLF, you are placing your trust in a team with insider knowledge, a proven track record, and an unwavering commitment to securing the best possible outcome for you.
2. Guaranteed Results or Your Money Back
When you hire the National Security Law Firm for your Global Entry appeal or revocation, you can trust that you’re in the hands of experienced, results-driven attorneys. We are so confident in our ability to secure your Global Entry that we offer a guarantee: if we do not succeed in obtaining your Global Entry on appeal, we will refund your money in full. This guarantee reflects the trust we place in our team and our commitment to your success.
3. Trusted by Top Business Leaders
The National Security Law Firm is the nation’s original Global Entry law firm, trusted by top business leaders, CEOs, and executives from Fortune 500 companies and beyond. Our trusted reputation for success in Global Entry appeals makes us the go-to firm for those who cannot afford delays or mistakes.
By partnering with NSLF, you can trust us to handle the complex legal work involved in your Global Entry appeal, allowing you to focus on your business with confidence.
4. Glowing Reviews and Proven Success
Our clients consistently trust us to deliver results, and our track record speaks for itself. NSLF’s Global Entry lawyers have helped numerous clients secure their Global Entry status, and our glowing Google reviews are a testament to the success we’ve achieved. Clients across the nation praise our professionalism, dedication, and unmatched expertise, all of which contribute to our trusted reputation as one of the top Global Entry law firms.
5. The Five Pillars of Success
At NSLF, trust is at the core of everything we do. Our practice is built on our “Five Core Pillars of Success,” which reflect our military-inspired strategy, dedication, and precision in delivering the highest level of legal service. From how we hire and train our attorneys to how we handle every case, these principles are what our clients trust to set us apart from the competition. Visit our About Us page to learn more about the Five Pillars that define our trusted approach and commitment to our clients.
Enlist The National Security Law Firm: Secure Your Global Entry Status Today
When you choose The National Security Law Firm, you’re trusting a team that approaches every Global Entry appeal with the precision, strategy, and determination of an elite military unit. Our insider knowledge and relentless pursuit of success set us apart in helping clients regain their Global Entry privileges. We are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.
Take Action Now: Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first critical step toward reclaiming your trusted traveler status. With our proven experience and commitment, we’ll guide you through every phase of the process.
Global Entry Appeals. Done Right.
Don’t wait—begin your Global Entry appeal today. Our onboarding process is fast and easy, and consultations are always free. Schedule your free consultation now and let our trusted team stand by your side in this important journey.
