Whether you’re taking off on a flight heading abroad, or just landed after a long international flight, Global Entry makes the process of international travel a lot easier–and fasters. With Global Entry, passengers can skip the long security lines upon departure and use the Global Entry fast-track border control lanes upon return to the U.S. The standard price for this benefit is $100 for a five-year membership, but we’ll show you how to get Global Entry for free.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a program managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows American citizens to bypass the customs line upon re-entry to the country and when entering other countries with Global Entry kiosks. Individuals who have completed the application and screening procedures can easily check in at an electronic kiosk when returning to the U.S.
There is no need for paper documentation, and the airport queues are typically shorter for Global Entry members. As a result, these members often experience faster reunions with their luggage and loved ones.
Who is Eligible for Global Entry?
Membership in Global Entry is open to the following groups:
- Citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
- Citizens of Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Germany, India, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, South Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, or the United Kingdom.
To be eligible, applicants must pass a criminal history check, demonstrate compliance with customs and immigration regulations in the past, and provide accurate information on the application.
Canadian citizens are not eligible for Global Entry but can enjoy Global Entry benefits by participating in the NEXUS program.
NEXUS members are automatically enrolled in Global Entry if their fingerprints are on file with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). NEXUS members can verify their Global Entry enrolment by logging into the GOES system or visiting a NEXUS or Global Entry enrolment center. There is no additional cost for NEXUS members to enroll in Global Entry.
How much does Global Entry cost?
The cost of applying for Global Entry is $100, which is non-refundable, even in the case of denial. This fee covers a five-year membership period. However, it is possible to obtain Global Entry for free or assist someone else in obtaining it, by using specific credit cards that offer this benefit.
Price of Global Entry vs TSA Pre-Check
While both programs aim to expedite the airport security and immigration processes, they come with different price tags.
Global Entry, which includes the benefits of TSA Pre-Check, costs $100 for a five-year membership. This fee covers the application process, background check, and access to expedited lanes at both domestic and international airports. It’s important to note that Global Entry is primarily designed for international travelers, as it offers the convenience of skipping long immigration lines upon re-entering the United States.
On the other hand, TSA Pre-Check is priced at $78 for a five-year membership and focuses specifically on domestic travel within the United States. With TSA Pre-Check, travelers enjoy expedited screening, which means they don’t need to remove their shoes, belts, or light jackets, and can leave laptops and approved liquids inside their bags.
Is Global Entry Better Than TSA Pre-Check?
Choosing between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck depends on individual preferences and travel patterns. If you frequently travel internationally and value the benefits of expedited customs processing, Global Entry may be the better option, despite the slightly higher cost compared to TSA PreCheck. However, if you primarily travel domestically and prioritize quicker security screening, TSA PreCheck is typically sufficient. Additionally, TSA PreCheck has a simpler application process and more enrolment centers, making it more accessible for many travelers. Get the complete breakdown of TSA Pre-Check vs Global Entry.
Benefits of Global Entry
Global Entry offers a plethora of benefits that can enhance your international travel experience. With Global Entry, you can breeze through the customs and immigration process, saving valuable time and minimizing the stress often associated with international arrivals. Here are the leading benefits of using Global Entry:
- Expedited Customs Clearance: Global Entry members have access to dedicated kiosks at major U.S. airports, allowing them to quickly complete the customs declaration process and bypass long lines.
- Fast Immigration Processing: Say goodbye to long waits at passport control. Global Entry enables swift clearance through dedicated lanes, making your entry into the U.S. more efficient.
- TSA Pre-Check Inclusion: Global Entry includes all the benefits of TSA Pre-Check, making your domestic travel smoother with expedited security screening.
- Convenient Use in Other Countries: Global Entry is part of the Trusted Traveler Network, allowing you to use expedited immigration and customs services in other participating countries.
- Reduced Paperwork: By using automated kiosks, you can minimize the need for paper forms and streamline your travel documentation process.
- Eligibility for NEXUS and SENTRI: Global Entry membership automatically qualifies you for NEXUS (for travel between the U.S. and Canada) and SENTRI (for travel between the U.S. and Mexico), further enhancing your border-crossing experience.
These benefits, coupled with the time saved and the convenience offered, make Global Entry a valuable investment for frequent international travelers.
How to Get Global Entry for Free?
Getting a Global Entry membership for free is possible through certain credit cards that offer this valuable perk as a member benefit. By holding these credit cards, you can enjoy the convenience of Global Entry without incurring any additional cost. Here are some credit cards that provide complimentary Global Entry membership:
- Aesthetics Card Visa® Rewards Credit Card
- American Airlines Credit Union Visa® Signature credit
- Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card*
- Capital One Spark Miles for Business*
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card*
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*
- Certain American Express® Credit Cards
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
- Citi Prestige® Card*
- Commerce Bank® World Elite Mastercard®
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- HSBC Elite World Elite Mastercard®
- HSBC Premier World Mastercard®
- IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card
- Mastercard® Black Card™
- Mastercard® Gold Card™
- United Club℠ Infinite Card
- United℠ Explorer Card
- United Quest℠ Card
- US Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
- US Bank FlexPerks® Gold American Express® Card
- Navy Federal’s Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card
- Truist Business Travel Rewards credit card
- PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card
- Provident World+ Travel®
It’s important to note that these credit cards may come with annual fees, so it’s crucial to evaluate the overall benefits and features before making a decision. Additionally, each credit card may have its terms and conditions regarding the Global Entry benefit, so it’s recommended to review the specific details for each card.
How to Get a Discount On Global Entry?
Obtaining a discount on your Global Entry membership is another great way to save money while enjoying the benefits of expedited travel. Several credit cards offer a statement credit to help offset the cost of the Global Entry application fee. By holding these credit cards, you can enjoy a discounted Global Entry membership. Here are some credit cards that provide a discount on Global Entry:
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
- United Quest℠ Card
- Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
By leveraging these credit card discounts, you can enjoy the advantages of Global Entry at a reduced cost, making your international travel experience even more seamless and efficient.
Bottom line
Global Entry can be a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers, particularly if they can obtain it at no cost through a credit card. When combined with TSA PreCheck, Global Entry provides time-saving benefits for both international and domestic travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need both TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry?
No, having Global Entry includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck. If you have a Global Entry membership, you don’t need to separately apply for TSA PreCheck. By entering your Global Entry membership number or PASS ID when booking flights, you can enjoy the TSA PreCheck benefits during airport security screenings. Your Global Entry membership number can be found in your Trusted Traveler Programs account. For more information, check out our TSA Pre-Check review.
How to get Global Entry for free?
You can obtain Global Entry for free by using certain credit cards that offer reimbursement for the application fee. Several credit cards, such as select American Express cards, Arvest Visa Signature, Capital One Spark Miles, and others, provide this benefit.
Are TSA Pre-Check membership benefits included in Global Entry?
Yes, TSA PreCheck benefits are automatically included when you have a Global Entry membership. You don’t need to separately apply for TSA PreCheck if you already have Global Entry.