Getting stuck in long customs and security lines at the start or end of a trip can easily sap the joy out of traveling. If you've experienced this frustration, you may have heard about Global Entry—a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that makes it quicker to clear customs and security.
What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a trusted traveler program that provides expedited customs processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States. Membership is valid for five years and includes:
- Faster processing at U.S. Customs and Border Protection checkpoints after international travel.
- Automatic inclusion in TSA PreCheck, allowing you to breeze through domestic airport security screening.
To benefit from Global Entry, you'll need to apply, pass a background check, and complete an in-person interview.
Time Savings
Clear customs in minutes instead of hours
TSA PreCheck Included
Expedited domestic security screening at no extra cost
Cost Effective
$100 for 5 years, often reimbursed by credit cards
Who Should Consider Global Entry?
Frequent International Travelers
If you take multiple international trips a year, Global Entry is practically a no-brainer. Customs lines can add hours to your travel time, whereas Global Entry often lets you clear customs in just a few minutes.
Occasional Travelers (1–3 Trips a Year)
If you only take one or two international trips annually, you might wonder if the $100 membership fee is worth it. However, Global Entry can quickly pay for itself in convenience—especially if you travel during peak holiday seasons.
First-Time International Travelers
If you're heading abroad for the first time, you might not be ready to invest in Global Entry just yet. That said, if you anticipate more international trips in the future or have a credit card that reimburses the application fee, Global Entry could be a worthwhile option.
Benefits of Global Entry
Time Savings at Customs
Nobody likes waiting in lines after a long international flight. Global Entry members use dedicated kiosks, reducing customs wait times to just minutes. Some travelers even report clearing customs in as little as two minutes.
TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which One Should You Choose?
| Feature | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Faster domestic security screening | Includes TSA PreCheck plus expedited customs processing |
| Cost | $78 for 5 years | $100 for 5 years |
| Best for | Primarily domestic travelers | International travelers |
| Application | Easier process, typically quicker to schedule | Slightly more involved application and interview |
Real World Experiences
"I used Global Entry at JFK after an international flight. It took just eight minutes from the plane to the curb—totally worth every penny!"
"I only take two or three international trips each year, but having TSA PreCheck for domestic flights has made all my travel smoother. It's more than just customs."
How to Apply for Global Entry
1. Complete the Online Application
Visit the CBP's Trusted Traveler Program website and fill out the application, which covers your travel history and personal details.
2. Pay the Application Fee
You'll pay a $100 non-refundable fee when you apply. Check to see if your credit card offers a reimbursement perk.
3. Wait for Conditional Approval
After a background check, you'll receive conditional approval if you qualify. Then you can schedule your in-person interview.
4. Attend the Interview
During your appointment at a CBP enrollment center, you'll confirm your information, be fingerprinted, and answer questions about your travel habits. Some travelers choose the "interview on arrival" option immediately upon returning from an international trip.
Challenges and Limitations
Application Process & Delays
The online application and required in-person interview can be time-consuming. Appointments might take weeks or even months to secure, depending on your location. In total, approval can sometimes take four to six months.
Limited Interview Locations
Smaller cities may not have an enrollment center, so you might have to drive to a larger city or coordinate an interview while traveling.
Not Ideal for Non-Travelers
If you rarely travel internationally or don't need TSA PreCheck domestically, Global Entry may not be worth it. Consider the free Mobile Passport app if you only need occasional border processing help.
Alternatives to Consider
Mobile Passport Control (MPC)
This free app lets you complete your customs declaration on your phone, skipping the traditional paperwork. While it doesn't offer the same expedited experience as Global Entry, it's a solid, budget-friendly alternative.
TSA PreCheck Only
If most of your travel is domestic, consider TSA PreCheck alone. It's cheaper ($78 vs. $100) and requires fewer application steps.
Final Thoughts—Is Global Entry Right for You?
Global Entry can be a game-changer if you travel internationally—whether frequently or just a handful of times in a five-year span. The inclusion of TSA PreCheck provides even more value by speeding up security for domestic flights. Though the application process might take some patience, the convenience often pays off in time saved and reduced stress at airports.
Have international trips on your horizon? Apply for Global Entry to streamline your travel experience and enjoy a smoother journey from start to finish.
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