Ultimate Guide: Global Entry at South Bend International Airport
If you’re located in South Bend, Elkhart, Michiwaka or even northern Indiana or southwest Michigan, the South Bend International Airport (SBN) offers a convenient location to complete your Global Entry interview without the long lines and chaos of larger hubs like Chicago O'Hare. This quieter regional airport may just be your fastest route to skipping those long customs lines during international travel.
No available appointments at South Bend International Airport?
Hundreds of other savvy travelers have skipped the wait and secured their Global Entry appointment by using tools like Snapslot. Snapslot monitors the booking page for cancellations and notifies you via SMS the moment a spot opens up—giving you a major advantage over manually refreshing the page.
Knowing the Global Entry Application Process
Submit Your ApplicationThe first step to obtaining Global Entry is to submit an online application through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. Ensure you provide accurate information and complete all required fields. The application includes personal information, passport details, employment history, and travel history.
Await Conditional ApprovalAfter submitting your application, CBP will review it to determine your eligibility for Global Entry. If your application is conditionally approved, you'll receive a notification via your TTP account. This approval does not guarantee enrollment but indicates that you have met the initial criteria.
Schedule Your InterviewThis is the tough part. Once conditionally approved, log in to your TTP account to schedule your Global Entry interview. You'll need to select a convenient enrollment center and appointment time. Interview locations vary, with many available at major airports and other designated sites across the country. It's essential to schedule your interview as soon as possible to secure your preferred date and time. Appointment slots fill up quickly, but Snapslot can help you secure a cancellation.
Attend Your InterviewShow up prepared with your passport, conditional approval letter, and other required documents.
Await Final ApprovalAfter your interview, final approval typically arrives within a few days though some have reported months!
Preparing for your interview
Getting ready for your interview is crucial. Here's what you may need (refer to official notes for a complete list):
A valid passport and another form of ID (e.g., driver’s license).
Conditional approval letter from the Trusted Traveler Program.
A list of countries you’ve visited in the past five years (if asked). The agent may ask you the reason for the visit, how long you went for etc. It’s mostly a honesty check, but be prepared to answer those questions.Pro tip: Dress professionally, and be prepared to answer questions about your travel habits and purpose for applying.
Getting to your appointment
Parking at South Bend International Airport
SBN offers ample short-term and long-term parking just steps away from the terminal. Rates are reasonable compared to major airports, and you’re unlikely to face heavy traffic or congestion. Be sure to check the airport's official parking info.
Taking Public Transit to South Bend International Airport for your appointment
The South Shore Line, a commuter rail from downtown Chicago, ends at South Bend Airport and is a great option for travelers coming from northwest Indiana or Chicago suburbs. Locally, Transpo’s Route 4 also connects the airport with key South Bend locations.
If you're not keen on public transit or parking, taxis, Uber, and Lyft all operate at South Bend Airport.
Inside the Airport
The Global Entry Enrollment Center at SBN is located near the ticketing area, before the TSA checkpoint. Look for signage near the airline counters.
Image courtesy of South Bend International Airport
No available appointments?
If you can’t find an appointment:
Keep checking the TTP booking page, but you have to be fast—appointments are grabbed in seconds.
Use Snapslot to get real-time SMS alerts when new slots open up.