After getting my Global Entry credentials, this was the first time I traveled out of the country and therefore got a chance to use Global Entry to get back home. I wanted to share my experience using Global Entry at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in case you are curious about how it works.
The process overall went very smoothly. At security, there was a special line for Global Entry and Nexus members. Before you get into the line, you will need to show your Global Entry card and boarding pass. Once you are in the dedicated line it is very similar to the TSA Precheck lines in the US (when you are in Canada or other countries, there is no such thing as Precheck). In the Global Entry line you get to keep your shoes on and keep liquids inside the bag. The only difference is you will need to take out your laptop. The line was super short at security so I breezed right through.
In Vancouver, you actually clear customs before boarding your US-bound flight. After security I ended up going to the customs area. For Global Entry you have a special line with special machines – these machines are self-service. You scan your passport, answer questions, and then scan your finger prints. After that is done you will meet the customs officer who will ask you questions, and then you are out.
The whole experience was quite easy. At the time I went through security/customs, the airport was not busy at all, so I am not able to compare the wait time between Global Entry and the general public. However I can only imagine this to be a time saver during busy times, not to mention having the convenience of not needing to remove your shoes and liquids.
I look forward to my next Global Entry experience!