Insights from the National Security Law Firm (NSLF)

For travelers who value time and convenience, Global Entry is an invaluable program, offering expedited clearance when entering the U.S. But when your application is denied or your status is revoked, it can be frustrating and disappointing. You might wonder, “Do I have a strong case for appeal?”

At the National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we handle more Global Entry appeals than any other law firm in the country. We know what makes for a successful appeal—and what doesn’t. In this blog, we’ll break down the factors that contribute to a good case for a Global Entry appeal and what makes some cases more difficult.

What Makes a Strong Case for a Global Entry Appeal?

  1. Clear Misunderstandings or Errors in Your Record

One of the best reasons to appeal is when your denial is based on outdated or incorrect information. Common examples include:

  • Old charges that were dismissed, expunged, or pardoned: If a dismissed or pardoned charge shows up on your record, you can argue that it should not affect your Global Entry eligibility.
  • Administrative errors: Sometimes applicants are denied due to clerical errors or incorrect information that appears during the background check.
  • Mistaken identity: If someone with a similar name or information has been flagged, you can argue that the denial is based on mistaken identity.

In cases like these, NSLF can help you gather the necessary documentation to prove that the denial was made in error and that you are eligible for Global Entry.

  1. Minor Infractions from Many Years Ago

Another strong basis for appeal is when the issue is a minor infraction that occurred a long time ago, and you can show a clear record since then. For example:

  • A single DUI or other minor misdemeanor from over a decade ago may not disqualify you if you’ve maintained a clean record since the incident.
  • Immigration violations from many years ago might not weigh as heavily if you’ve demonstrated good standing and compliance since then.

In these cases, providing evidence of your rehabilitation and clean behavior can strengthen your appeal. NSLF excels in crafting compelling appeals that highlight your low-risk status today, even when your past isn’t perfect.

  1. Strong Supporting Documentation

A well-documented appeal is key to success. Strong cases are built with:

  • Character references: Letters from employers, community leaders, or others who can vouch for your trustworthiness.
  • Evidence of rehabilitation: Proof of participation in programs, treatment, or community service that demonstrates your positive steps forward.
  • Detailed explanations: A thorough, honest explanation of any past incidents, with evidence to support your claims.

When you have the right documentation, the chances of your appeal being successful increase significantly.


What Makes a Bad Case for a Global Entry Appeal?

  1. Recent Serious Offenses

Certain types of convictions or charges—especially if they are recent—make it very difficult to win a Global Entry appeal. Examples include:

  • Recent felony convictions: If you were convicted of a felony in the past few years, CBP is likely to view you as a higher risk and deny your appeal.
  • Serious criminal offenses involving violence, drug trafficking, or terrorism: These offenses will likely disqualify you permanently, with very little chance of reversal.

While we are always willing to review your case, these types of serious issues make for poor appeal prospects, especially if they occurred recently.

  1. Ongoing Investigations or Pending Charges

If you are currently under investigation or facing pending criminal charges, your Global Entry appeal is unlikely to succeed. CBP will generally wait until all legal matters are fully resolved before reconsidering your eligibility.

It’s often best to wait until any legal issues are settled before filing an appeal, but consulting with an attorney at NSLF can help you decide the best course of action.

  1. Associations with Individuals or Organizations Involved in Illegal Activities

If your Global Entry denial is based on associations with individuals, businesses, or organizations known to be involved in illegal activities, it can be difficult to overturn. For example:

  • Frequenting locations known for drug trafficking or organized crime may lead to automatic disqualification.
  • Traveling with individuals flagged for illegal activity may also result in your application being denied.

These cases are challenging, but they are not impossible to win. NSLF attorneys are highly experienced in uncovering the specific details behind denials based on associations and can help you develop a strategy to address these concerns.

  1. Repeated Travel to High-Risk Countries

Frequent travel to countries flagged by U.S. authorities as high-risk (due to terrorism, organized crime, or other security concerns) can also lead to Global Entry denials. If your travel history includes repeated visits to countries with high rates of crime or security issues, CBP may view you as a higher-risk traveler.

While this is a difficult issue to overcome, providing a valid explanation for your travel and showing that you are not involved in any illegal or high-risk activities can help your case.


The Importance of Hiring Experienced Legal Representation

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to handle their Global Entry appeal on their own. Without legal counsel, it’s easy to overlook critical elements of your appeal or fail to address the security concerns that CBP has identified.

At NSLF, we have filed more Global Entry appeals than any other law firm, and we know exactly how to address the unique issues in your case. Our deep understanding of CBP’s decision-making process allows us to craft appeals that are both persuasive and comprehensive, giving you the best possible chance of success.


Conclusion

When it comes to Global Entry appeals, not all cases are created equal. A strong case is one where there are clear misunderstandings, old minor infractions, or well-documented reasons for overcoming the denial. On the other hand, recent serious offenses, associations with illegal activity, and ongoing investigations make for much tougher cases. Regardless of your situation, having the right legal counsel on your side is essential.

At NSLF, we are the nation’s leading law firm for Global Entry appeals. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you get back on track with your travel plans.

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.

Check Out Our Google Reviews