- Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler program from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
- Global Entry members can utilize expedited immigration lanes when re-entering the U.S. from abroad.
- Registration costs up to $120, but many credit cards reimburse cardholders for the enrollment fee.
If you're a frequent traveler, Global Entry can save you valuable travel time. This review covers what Global Entry is, how to apply, and whether it's worth signing up for.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler program designed to make re-entering the U.S. faster after international trips. Administered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Global Entry provides expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon their return to the U.S.
I've had Global Entry for several years, and highly recommend it to even the most infrequent travelers. Signing up is relatively easy, there are numerous ways to get the enrollment fee waived, and registration even includes automatic membership in TSA PreCheck®.
Global Entry benefits and key features
Global Entry offers many benefits that can make your travel experience infinitely easier, whether you're an occasional domestic traveler or travel frequently abroad. Here are several reasons why you should consider signing up for Global Entry:
Faster airport entry
Global Entry kiosks at participating airports result in shorter wait times at immigration and customs. You can skip long lines and paperwork by scanning your passport at a kiosk instead. At some airports, you can even complete the process through the Global Entry mobile app, making the process even more convenient and efficient.
TSA PreCheck® included
A Global Entry membership also includes automatic enrollment in TSA PreCheck®, which allows for expedited security screening at U.S. airports.
TSA PreCheck® security lines typically move more quickly since travelers don't need to remove shoes, light jackets, or electronics.
Overall, most people enjoy a faster experience going through TSA checkpoints. On average, TSA PreCheck® passengers spend less than 10 minutes in line, and children under the age of 18 can travel with a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck® membership.
Waived application fees
The Global Entry application fee is quite reasonable at $120, especially since membership lasts for five years.
Better yet, many of the best credit cards cover Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® registration or renewal costs once every four years. For example, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has a $95 annual fee, but includes a $120 Global Entry application fee credit every four years.
Considering TSA PreCheck® costs up to $85 and is included in Global Entry enrollment, signing up for Global Entry offers fantastic value.
Global Entry eligibility and application process
Global Entry has a few eligibility requirements worth noting, along with a multi-step application process. Here's what you need to know about both:
Eligibility
To qualify for Global Entry, you must be at least 18 years old or have consent from a parent or legal guardian. You must also be a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of certain other countries:
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Bahrain
- Colombia
- Dominican Republic
- Germany
- India
- Mexico
- Panama
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- The Netherlands
- United Kingdom
Additional eligibility criteria include passing a thorough background check. You may be denied if you have any criminal convictions or pending charges. Additionally, you'll be deemed ineligible if you've been denied for the purchase of a firearm, violated any immigration regulations or are under investigation by law enforcement agencies.
Be sure to read the full list of disqualifiers before applying to ensure you're eligible.
How to apply for Global Entry
The Global Entry application process is fairly straightforward and consists of four steps:
Create a Trusted Traveler Program account
Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account after selecting the type of program you want to apply for. In this case, you'll want to select Global Entry. You'll need to provide basic information, like your name, address, and contact information.
Submit the online application
After creating a profile, you'll need to complete the online application. You'll answer basic eligibility questions, provide personal information, proof of citizenship, and consent to a background check. At the end of the application, you'll pay the $120 non-refundable application fee (ideally, using a credit card that will reimburse this charge).
Schedule an interview
If conditionally approved, you'll need to schedule an in-person interview at an annulment center. Some airports offer enrollment-on-arrival, which takes minutes and allows you to bypass an appointment. CBP opens up new interview appointment dates every Monday at 9 a.m. (local time). Additionally, CBP is piloting a remote interview program.
Complete the in-person interview
Complete your interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, including fingerprinting and identity verification. The process is fairly quick and can even be done remotely or upon arrival at select airports.
Approval process
Most Global Entry applicants are approved within a few weeks after completing the interview. However, some applications may require additional review, which can delay the process.
Global Entry cost and renewal fees
In October 2024, Global Entry membership increased from $100 to $120. As a result, many credit cards increased their application fee reimbursement to match the higher rate. Most credit cards offer this benefit every 4.5 years, in time for membership renewal.
Global Entry membership cost
As of 2025, Global Entry costs $120 for a five-year membership. While the price has increased, the benefits often outweigh the costs, particularly for frequent travelers. Additionally, members automatically get TSA PreCheck®, which costs up to $85, so the Global Entry fee does double duty for the cost.
Global Entry renewal cost
You can renew your Global Entry membership up to a year before expiration. If you submit a renewal, you can use your Global Entry benefit for up to 24 months after your expiration date, accounting for possible processing delays.
How to get Global Entry for free or at a discount
The Global Entry application fee is just $120 – well worth it for frequent travelers, considering it's valid for five years. Still, there are a few ways you can get Global Entry for free or at a discount. Here's how:
Credit card benefits
Many of the best travel rewards credit cards offer a statement credit to cover the Global Entry application fee. These credits are issued every 4.5 years, just in time for renewal. You can get an application fee credit from many popular credit cards, including non-premium options with relatively lower annual fees, such as:
- U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card ($0 annual fee)
- The New United℠ Explorer Card ($0 intro for the first year, then $150 annual fee)
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95 annual fee)
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card ($350 annual fee)
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ($395 annual fee)
- Chase Sapphire Reserve® ($550 annual fee)
- The Platinum Card® from American Express ($695 annual fee)
Airline or hotel loyalty programs
Some airline and hotel loyalty programs offer discounts or points redemptions for Global Entry. While this benefit is more common with TSA PreCheck® these days, it's worth keeping an eye out for redemption options with your favorite loyalty program. Redeeming points for Global Entry usually isn't the most valuable use of rewards, but it is an option that can save you money.
You can also use Global Entry at no additional cost if you are a current NEXUS or SENTRI member who has provided your fingerprints and document information to CBP.
Employer reimbursement
Some employers reimburse Global Entry application fees as a benefit for employees. It's definitely worth checking whether your employer offers reimbursement for Global Entry as a travel benefit, especially if you frequently travel internationally for work.
Is Global Entry worth it?
Global Entry is worth the cost and hassle of applying if you're a traveler who wants a smoother travel experience.
Even occasional travelers can benefit from the expedited immigration queue and TSA PreCheck® access. Here's a closer look at the types of travelers who might benefit from having Global Entry:
Frequent international travelers
Global Entry is absolutely worth it if you travel internationally often. The time you save at customs and security can make a huge difference, especially during peak travel times. Plus, you enjoy TSA PreCheck® on domestic flights, which is one of the most tedious and time-consuming aspects of airport transit.
Occasional international travelers
For infrequent travelers, Global Entry can still be worthwhile because of the amount of time it can save you. If you've ever approached the customs line right after a plane full of travelers disembarked, fresh from their summer vacation in Europe, you might be tempted to pay anything to avoid the line.
With Global Entry, the fee is minimal. Since the cost difference between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® isn't much (and lasts over four years), it might be worth the upgrade.
Families traveling with children
Families can benefit from Global Entry, especially when traveling with children. However, each family member (including minors) must have their own Global Entry membership. The current fee for minors is the same as for adults, but if a parent is a Global Entry member, the child's fee is waived.
Global Entry customer reviews
As an experienced traveler, I highly recommend Global Entry. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to streamline their airport experience on both domestic and international travels. That's why I renewed my membership earlier this year and will continue to do so.
But don't just take my word for it. Here's a look at how Redditors feel about their Global Entry membership:
Saves time
Most members praise Global Entry for significantly reducing wait times at U.S. airports. Travelers returning from long international flights appreciate being able to quickly pass through customs.
Comes with TSA PreCheck®
Redditors love the access to TSA PreCheck® as part of their Global Entry membership. This is especially important to members who may not travel abroad often but get frequent use out of the TSA PreCheck® benefit during domestic travels.
Can be hard to get an appointment
One common frustration is the difficulty in securing an appointment for an in-person interview. Many users report waiting weeks or even months for available slots, especially in busy cities. Some travelers have resorted to pursuing on-arrival interviews at airports upon returning from international trips.
If you want an appointment within a certain amount of time, you can pay a third-party service like Appointment Scanner to notify you when interview spots become available.
Global Entry vs. other Trusted Traveler programs
Global Entry isn't the only Trusted Traveler program available for expedited travel screening. Depending on your travel habits, you may want to consider one of the following programs instead:
TSA PreCheck®
Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck®. But TSA PreCheck® has a lower application fee of up to $85, so it might be a better option for those who don't travel abroad and thus don't need Global Entry's expedited customs processing.
NEXUS
NEXUS provides similar benefits to Global Entry but is tailored for travel between the U.S. and Canada. Eligibility criteria are similar to that of Global Entry, except that NEXUS is available to Canadian citizens and permanent lawful residents while Global Entry is not.
At $50, the NEXUS application fee is much lower than Global Entry. NEXUS members can use TSA PreCheck® lanes in the U.S. and Global Entry kiosks if they provide their fingerprints and requested documents to CBP.
Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI)
SENTRI is a good Trusted Traveler program for people who frequently travel between the U.S. and Mexico. The application fee is $120 and includes access to TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry once your fingerprints and documents are submitted to CBP.
If you travel frequently to Mexico, you might want to opt for SENTRI registration since it's the same cost as Global Entry, and includes additional privileges.
CLEAR® Plus
CLEAR® Plus allows members to use biometric scanning to get through airport security rather than their ID. This can expedite security while traveling domestically, especially when combined with TSA PreCheck®.
TSA PreCheck® lines also tend to be longer than CLEAR® Plus. If you're more of a domestic traveler and don't anticipate traveling abroad in the next five years, CLEAR® Plus membership might make more sense than Global Entry – especially if you're considering the latter for its TSA PreCheck® benefit.
CLEAR® Plus membership costs $199 for 12 months. You can get some or all of that fee covered if you have elite status from certain airlines, or via credit cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express, American Express® Green Card , Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card , and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (Terms Apply).
Global Entry frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get Global Entry?
Application approval time varies, but the Global Entry application and interview process can take several weeks or months. According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website, 80% of applications are processed within two weeks, while others can take 12 months or longer.
What if I have a criminal record?
Your Global Entry application may be denied if you have a criminal record. Pending criminal charges, customs violations and being subject to an ongoing law enforcement investigation may also disqualify you.
Can I use Global Entry at all airports?
You can use Global Entry at most major U.S. airports, as well as a few international airports with preclearance facilities. These include Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and a few others.
Do kids need their own Global Entry account?
Yes, kids under 18 need their own Global Entry membership in order to use the service. On the other hand, kids can use the TSA PreCheck® lane when traveling with a parent who has a valid TSA PreCheck® membership).
Which is better, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®?
Global Entry is better than TSA PreCheck® because it includes TSA PreCheck® enrollment. Since the Global Entry fee is only $35 to $43 higher than TSA PreCheck®, it makes sense to apply for Global Entry instead. Even if you use it just once over a five-year period, it can make international travel much more convenient.
What's the fastest way to get Global Entry?
The fastest way to get Global Entry is to complete your enrollment interview upon arrival at over 200 participating airports. Interviews on arrival don't require an appointment and are relatively quick, so you can arrange them around existing travel plans. You can also expedite your Global Entry enrollment by attending a CBP enrollment event or scoring a last-minute appointment.
Why you should trust us: How we reviewed Global Entry
We evaluated Global Entry based on its cost, convenience, and time savings for international travelers. Our review included feedback from users across various platforms, along with a comparison to similar programs like TSA PreCheck® and NEXUS.
Our key evaluation criteria includes:
- Cost vs. value: Is the $120 fee justified by the time saved?
- Convenience: How easy is the application and renewal process?
- Time savings: Does it effectively reduce wait times for frequent travelers?
- Ease of use: Are there challenges to using Global Entry, such as finding interview appointments?
If you qualify and value expedited security and customs clearance, Global Entry is worth considering.
