CBP Trusted Traveler Programs — Updated May 2026

Global Entry & TSA PreCheck Photo Requirements

Global Entry needs a 2×2 inch passport-style photo uploaded to the TTP portal. TSA PreCheck takes your photo at enrollment — no upload needed.

Global EntryRequired — same as US passport photo

TSA PreCheckNot required — taken at enrollment

NEXUSRequired — 2×2 in, white background

SENTRIRequired — 2×2 in, white background

Global Entry Photo Specs

Size2×2 inches (51×51mm)

Pixels at 300 DPI600×600 px minimum

BackgroundPlain white or off-white

ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed

GlassesNot allowed

Head coveringReligious exceptions only

Photo ageWithin last 6 months

File formatJPEG, under 5MB

Identical toUS passport photo specs

Create a compliant Global Entry photo

Same spec as US passport · 600×600 px · Free

All Trusted Traveler Programs Compared

CBP operates four programs. Three require a photo upload; one (TSA PreCheck) takes your photo at the enrollment appointment.

Global Entry

TSA PreCheck

Fee$78 / 5 years

Photo uploadNot required

Photo specsPhoto taken at enrollment

BenefitExpedited security (domestic + select intl)

Best forDomestic-focused travelers

NEXUS

Best value

Fee$50 / 5 years

Photo uploadRequired

Photo specs2×2 in, white bg

BenefitUS-Canada border + TSA PreCheck

Best forUS-Canada border crossers

SENTRI

Fee$122.25 / 5 years

Photo uploadRequired

Photo specs2×2 in, white bg

BenefitUS-Mexico border + TSA PreCheck

Best forUS-Mexico border crossers

Note

Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck automatically. If you travel internationally even once a year, Global Entry ($120) is a better value than TSA PreCheck alone ($78) — you get everything PreCheck offers plus expedited customs re-entry from international flights.

How to Apply for Global Entry (5 Steps)

The photo upload happens in Step 1 — during your online application.

Apply through the TTP portal

Go to ttp.cbp.dhs.gov and create an account. Complete the Global Entry application, pay the $120 fee (valid for 5 years), and upload your 2×2 inch photo.

Wait for conditional approval

CBP reviews your background. Most applicants receive conditional approval within a few weeks, though it can take up to 6 months. You'll receive an email when approved.

Schedule your enrollment interview

After conditional approval, schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. These are located at 80+ international airports and some CBP offices.

Attend your interview

Bring your valid passport and any other required documents. A CBP officer will verify your identity, take fingerprints, and confirm your photo. The interview takes 10–15 minutes.

Receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN)

After approval, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number. Add it to all airline bookings to automatically activate TSA PreCheck lanes — Global Entry includes PreCheck at no extra cost.

Tip

Global Entry renewal is even faster — if you renew before expiry, you keep your KTN active the whole time. Renewal also costs $120 and follows the same photo process.

Uploading Your Photo to the TTP Portal

The TTP portal (ttp.cbp.dhs.gov) has specific technical requirements for the photo file — not just the photo content.

Technical file requirements

FormatJPEG (.jpg)

Max file size5 MB

Min dimensions600×600 px

Color modeColor (RGB)

OrientationSquare (1:1 ratio)

Common upload errors and fixes

File too large: Export as JPEG at quality 80 — usually well under 5MB

Wrong dimensions: Must be square — our tool exports exactly 600×600 px

Background not white: Use our background removal tool before uploading

Photo rejected by system: Check: glasses, shadows, head size, expression

Global Entry Photo vs. US Passport Photo

The specifications are identical — if you have a compliant passport photo, it works for Global Entry.

Requirement	Global Entry	US Passport
Size	2×2 in (51×51mm)	2×2 in (51×51mm)
Background	White or off-white	White or off-white
Expression	Neutral	Neutral
Glasses	Not allowed	Not allowed
Photo age	Within 6 months	Within 6 months
Submission	Upload to TTP portal	Print + submit or digital upload
Fee	$120 (5 years)	$130 (adult renewal)

Create Your Global Entry Photo — Free

2×2 in · White background · 600×600 px JPEG · Ready to upload to TTP portal

Start Creating Your Photo

Free to try • Pay only for HD download

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Global Entry require a photo?

Yes. Global Entry requires a 2×2 inch (51×51mm) passport-style photo with a plain white background when you submit your application through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) portal. The photo must meet the same specifications as a US passport photo — neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses, taken within the last 6 months.

Does TSA PreCheck require a photo?

No. TSA PreCheck enrollment does not require you to submit a photo. When you go for your in-person enrollment appointment, the enrollment provider (IDEMIA, Telos, etc.) captures your fingerprints and takes your photo on-site. You do not need to bring or submit a photo.

Is the Global Entry photo the same as a passport photo?

Yes — the specifications are identical. Both require a 2×2 inch (51×51mm) photo with a plain white or off-white background, neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses, and taken within the last 6 months. If you already have a recent, compliant US passport photo, you can use it for Global Entry.

Does NEXUS require a photo?

Yes. NEXUS applications through the TTP portal require a 2×2 inch passport-style photo with a white background. NEXUS covers both the US and Canada border, and photos must meet ICAO biometric standards — same as a US passport photo.

Does SENTRI require a photo?

Yes. SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) applications require a 2×2 inch photo with a white background. SENTRI is for the US-Mexico land border and follows the same photo specs as Global Entry and NEXUS.

How do I upload a photo for Global Entry?

Log into the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) portal at ttp.cbp.dhs.gov. During your application, you'll be prompted to upload a photo. The system accepts JPEG files under 5MB. The photo must be at least 600×600 pixels, in color, with a white background. Use our tool to create and download a compliant file.

Can I use a selfie for Global Entry?

You can take the photo yourself at home — it does not need to be taken by a professional. However, it must meet all the same technical specs as a passport photo: 2×2 inches, white background, neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses, proper head size (50–70% of frame), and no shadows. Use our tool to format any home photo to these specs.

What happens at the Global Entry enrollment appointment?

At your in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center (usually at a major international airport), a CBP officer will verify your identity, review your documents, take your fingerprints, and confirm your photo. The photo you uploaded to the TTP portal is reviewed during this process. If it doesn't meet specs, the officer may retake it.

Warning

Global Entry does not automatically renew. Set a reminder 6 months before your expiry date — conditional approval can take months, and if you let it lapse you lose PreCheck access until re-approved.

2×2 Passport Photo Tool

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