Receiving a Global Entry denial or revocation can feel like a significant setback, especially for frequent travelers who rely on the program for expedited clearance through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). But don’t lose hope just yet. At the National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we handle more Global Entry appeals than any other firm, and we’ve developed a range of defenses, strategies, and hacks to help our clients successfully overturn these decisions. Whether you’re unsure of why you were denied or you’re ready to launch your appeal, here’s how we can help.
Understanding Why You Were Denied: The First Critical Step
Before launching your appeal, it’s crucial to understand exactly why your Global Entry application was denied or your membership was revoked. Unfortunately, CBP often provides vague or unclear reasons, stating simply that you “do not meet program eligibility requirements” without providing specifics. This leaves many applicants in the dark.
Hack #1: FOIA Request or NSLF Consultation
One of the best “hacks” to determine the exact reason for your denial is to file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. Through a FOIA request, you can obtain the documents and information CBP used to make their decision. However, FOIA requests can take several weeks to months and often come with heavily redacted information, making it difficult to piece together the real issue.
Even better hack? Schedule a consult with NSLF. With our extensive experience in handling Global Entry appeals, we can often determine the real reason for your denial during a quick phone consultation. This can save you weeks or even months of waiting for a FOIA request to come back. In most cases, we don’t need FOIA to get to the bottom of your denial—we’ve seen it all before and know how to identify the issue quickly and accurately.
Common Global Entry Denial Reasons & Defenses
Now that you understand why you were denied, the next step is developing a defense strategy. Here are some of the most common reasons for denial and the corresponding defenses:
1. Criminal History
- Reason for Denial: A past criminal arrest or conviction, even if it’s decades old, can lead to a Global Entry denial. This is true even for minor offenses that were dismissed, expunged, or pardoned.
- Defense: Address the issue head-on. In your appeal, provide detailed documentation about the case, including court records that show charges were dismissed or expunged, or that you were pardoned. Explain the circumstances surrounding the incident and, most importantly, show evidence of rehabilitation—whether through character references, proof of community involvement, or completion of programs.
2. Customs Violations
- Reason for Denial: If you’ve previously violated customs regulations—such as failing to declare certain goods—you may be flagged as high-risk.
- Defense: Acknowledge the violation in your appeal and show that you’ve paid any associated fines and resolved the issue. Provide a detailed explanation of the incident and evidence that it was an isolated mistake rather than a pattern of behavior.
3. Incomplete or Misleading Application
- Reason for Denial: If CBP believes you provided false or incomplete information on your application, they may deny or revoke your status.
- Defense: This is an area where honesty is essential. If you made an honest mistake, explain this in your appeal and provide the correct information along with supporting documentation. It’s important to show that any discrepancies were unintentional and not an attempt to mislead.
4. Associations with Individuals, Businesses, or Locations
- Reason for Denial: If CBP believes you are associated with individuals, businesses, or locations involved in illegal activities, you may be denied or have your Global Entry revoked.
- Defense: In your appeal, explain the nature of your association with the person or entity in question. If you have no involvement in their illegal activities, make that clear and provide evidence to support your claim. For example, if the association is purely professional or distant, explain how you are not involved in their actions or behaviors.
5. Travel to Certain Countries
- Reason for Denial: Frequent travel to countries deemed high-risk or associated with terrorism, crime, or trafficking can raise red flags for CBP.
- Defense: Explain the nature of your travel. For instance, if your travel was for professional or family reasons, provide documentation that proves the legitimate purpose of your visits. It’s important to show that your travel does not pose a security risk and is consistent with low-risk behavior.
Building a Strong Appeal: Proven Strategies
Once you’ve identified the reason for your denial and developed a defense, it’s time to craft your appeal. Here’s how we build strong, winning appeals for our clients:
1. Be Thorough and Honest
Don’t try to hide or minimize the issue that led to your denial. Instead, address it directly. The goal of your appeal is to convince CBP that you are a low-risk traveler, so honesty is key. Lay out all the facts, provide any necessary explanations, and submit clear documentation that supports your claims.
2. Provide Comprehensive Documentation
Your appeal should be supported by evidence. This might include court records, reference letters, or proof of rehabilitation. The more thorough your documentation, the better. At NSLF, we know exactly which documents are most effective for Global Entry appeals and can guide you through the process of gathering everything you need.
3. Highlight Positive Factors
If you have strong ties to your community, no recent criminal history, or a track record of compliance with U.S. laws, make sure to highlight those facts. These positive factors help demonstrate that you are a low-risk individual who poses no threat to national security.
4. Professional Tone
Your appeal letter should maintain a professional, respectful tone. Avoid being emotional or combative, and instead focus on the facts, evidence, and reasons why CBP should reconsider your denial.
Why Hire NSLF for Your Global Entry Appeal?
One of the biggest mistakes people make is attempting to handle their Global Entry appeal without legal help. At NSLF, we file more Global Entry appeals than any other law firm, and we have an excellent track record of helping clients regain their trusted traveler status. Here’s why hiring an attorney can significantly boost your chances of success:
- Expertise: We understand the nuances of Global Entry appeals and know exactly how to frame your case in the most persuasive way.
- Speed: We can often determine the reason for your denial in a single consultation, saving you weeks or months of waiting on a FOIA request.
- Thoroughness: We help you gather the necessary documentation and craft a compelling appeal package that maximizes your chances of success.
Conclusion: Ready to Appeal? Let Us Help You Win
A Global Entry denial or revocation doesn’t have to be the final word. With the right approach and a solid strategy, you can overturn the decision and regain your Global Entry privileges. NSLF has the experience, knowledge, and proven track record to help you succeed.
Contact us today for a consultation with one of our Global Entry attorneys, and let us guide you through the appeal process with confidence. We are the best at what we do—let us fight for you.
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.
