Originally Posted by
englisha
We will also be going (2 adults 2 kids) to the US through MIA in February with just 2hrs and 5 mins connection to our MCO flight. Both kids have been to the US before and are on their 2nd ESTA's. Do they allow kids to use the machines, or, as in the UK, must you be over 18? Any other tips to make sure we make this connection?
Originally Posted by
joejet
My kids use the Global Entry machines fine, although i was told off for answering questions for them!!! The kids should be fine on the machines.
I think some caution is needed here.
Although they both use automated machines to speed up the process Global Entry (one part of a wider 'trusted traveller programme') and APC (Automated Passport Control) are 2 different things.
In order to be eligible for Global Entry you must register, pay a fee and attend an 'interview' be be accepted into the programme. As far as I understand there is no lower age limit to join / use this.
Just using APC works in a similar way to the e-gates in the UK i.e. no pre-registration and no fee. However similar to the UK there is a lower age limit for these so if traveling with kids don't rely on being able to use them.
It appears this age is 13 (as opposed to 18 for UK) but this shouldn't be relied upon as it doesn't appear to be specified on the official website (at least that I could find easily! If anyone can find an official link then please post it.)
Pertinent info on the various programmes can be found at below locations (although the APC section is found under the 'US citizens' heading even though it is applicable for ESTA country's citizens too!)
http://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-tr...s/global-entry
http://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizen...rt-control-apc