TSA Pre-Check vs. Global Entry: Which Is Best For You? 

If there’s something you want to make better about your time at the airport, it’s likely the amount of time you spend there. Luckily, there are ways to significantly reduce the time you need there by speeding up the security process, such as TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry. TSA Pre-Check focuses on enhancing the domestic security screening experience, while Global Entry provides expedited airport security for international travelers. Find out which is the best choice for you with our TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry comparison.

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA Precheck is a program offered by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) that allows eligible individuals to undergo expedited security screening at more than 200 airports across the United States. The program is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents.

By enrolling in TSA Precheck, you can enjoy a shorter and more streamlined screening process when boarding a flight. This means you can reach your gate faster and more conveniently. To enroll, you need to complete an online application and provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and personal details, for a background check.

With TSA Precheck, you can skip the hassle of removing items such as shoes, laptops, belts, jackets, and 3-1-1 liquids. You can keep these items or leave them in your carry-on bags. For many people, being able to bypass these procedures alone saves a significant amount of time and reduces the stress of the airport experience.

Learn more about it with our TSA-Precheck review. 

What is Global Entry?

If you’ve ever traveled internationally and returned to the United States, you know that going through customs can be a time-consuming process. That’s where Global Entry comes in. It’s a program managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that offers expedited clearance for preapproved, low-risk travelers entering the U.S.

As a participant in Global Entry, you can bypass the regular customs lines and go directly to an automated kiosk. At the kiosk, you’ll have your passport and fingerprints scanned, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork. To qualify for the program, you need to complete an online application, pay a fee, and provide biometric information, such as fingerprints, for a thorough background check. Eligible participants include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, and selected foreign nationals.

Global Entry costs $100 for a five-year membership and also includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck, allowing you to enjoy expedited security screening at airports.

Learn more with our Global Entry review. 

TSA Pre-Check vs Global Entry: Features

Even though both programs are part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and are designed to provide trusted traveler benefits, they have distinct features.

New User Registration

Registering for TSA Pre-Check involves a straightforward process. Applicants must complete an online application, provide personal information, and undergo a background check. Once the application is approved, an in-person appointment is scheduled at an enrollment center for an interview and verification of documents. While the process can take several weeks to complete, it offers the benefit of expedited domestic security screenings.

In contrast, Global Entry requires a slightly more involved registration process. Applicants must submit an online application, pay the required fee, and undergo a thorough background check. Applicants need to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Centre after their application has been conditionally approved. During the interview, applicants provide additional documentation, undergo fingerprinting, and have their photo taken. The entire process can take several weeks to complete, but it offers the advantage of expedited international re-entry into the United States.

Processing Time

TSA Pre-Check applications typically take a few weeks to several months to process and approve. The timeline can vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications and the efficiency of the background check process. While it may take some time to receive approval, the benefits of expedited security screenings make it worthwhile for frequent domestic travelers.

On the other hand, Global Entry applications also undergo a thorough review process, including a background check and assessment of eligibility for expedited re-entry into the United States. The processing time for Global Entry applications is generally similar to that of TSA Pre-Check, taking a few weeks to several months. However, you generally receive a reply within 90 days. The timeline may vary based on factors such as the volume of applications and the availability of interview slots at enrollment centers.

Security Lines

TSA Pre-Check provides eligible travelers with dedicated security screening lanes at over 200 airports across the United States. This allows Pre-Check members to enjoy expedited screening, reduced wait times, and a smoother experience. However, due to its popularity and larger user base, there may be instances where Pre-Check lines become congested, especially during peak travel periods. Nonetheless, the program’s extensive coverage ensures a higher likelihood of finding a Pre-Check lane at most major airports.

In contrast, Global Entry does not offer dedicated security screening lanes like TSA Pre-Check. Instead, it focuses on expedited immigration and customs processes for international travelers re-entering the United States. Global Entry members can utilize automated kiosks at select airports, streamlining passport control and customs declaration procedures. While Global Entry itself does not directly address security lines, the program’s benefits can contribute to an overall smoother and faster travel experience for international arrivals.

Security Process

TSA Pre-Check offers eligible travelers a more streamlined security screening experience within the United States. With TSA Pre-Check, passengers can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on during the screening process. Additionally, they can leave their laptops and compliant liquids in their carry-on bags, saving time and minimizing the need for additional procedures. This expedited process allows Pre-Check members to enjoy a hassle-free and more efficient journey through security checkpoints.

In contrast, Global Entry focuses on expediting the international re-entry process. While Global Entry does not directly impact the security screening process, it offers benefits such as automated passport control kiosks at select airports. These kiosks streamline the passport verification and customs declaration processes for international travelers, reducing the need for manual document checks and expediting their passage through the immigration checkpoint. However, it’s important to note that the security screening process remains the same as for TSA PreCheck members as Global Entry includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck.

TSA Pre-Check vs Global Entry Pricing and Plans 

Global Entry vs TSA Pre-Check User Reviews

TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry have received positive reviews from users and are highly regarded in third-party assessments. Users often praise the convenience and time-saving benefits of both programs. TSA Pre-Check is frequently commended for its efficiency in domestic security screenings, with users expressing satisfaction over shorter wait times and the convenience of keeping shoes and belts on. Users appreciate the dedicated Pre-Check lanes, which help streamline the screening process.

Similarly, Global Entry has garnered positive feedback for its expedited international re-entry process. Real users often highlight the ease of using automated kiosks for passport control, significantly reducing wait times and simplifying the customs declaration process. Travelers appreciate the seamless experience and the ability to bypass long queues at immigration checkpoints.

Our Expert Opinion: TSA Pre-Check vs Global Entry

In our opinion, Having Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck at a nominal additional cost, is more advantageous in the long run. Even if you don’t travel internationally frequently, having both memberships simplifies the security and U.S. customs process at both the departure and arrival ends of your journey. If you are still not sure, evaluating your travel habits will help you decide which program aligns best with your needs:

TSA Pre-Check Is Best For:

• Frequent domestic travelers seeking a smoother security screening experience.
• Travelers who appreciate the convenience of leaving liquids and electronics in their carry-on bags.
• Budget-conscious travelers who rarely travel abroad.

Global Entry Is Best For:

• Frequent international travelers who want to expedite the re-entry process into the United States.
• Travelers who value a seamless passport control experience using automated kiosks.
• Individuals who frequently visit airports with long customs and immigration wait times.

Bottom line

While Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, it’s important to note that TSA PreCheck alone does not provide Global Entry privileges. If your travel plans involve international trips, it is recommended to apply for Global Entry to enjoy the combined advantages of both programs. Additionally, some credit cards offer reimbursement for the application fees, further reducing the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)