Is Global Entry Really Worth It? Key Factors to Weigh Before Applying

The advantages of the Trusted Traveler Program surpass the expense for virtually every traveler.

The Global Entry program is a Trusted Traveler initiative provided by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. For anyone living as a perpetual digital nomad like myself, this recommendation comes with high praise. After numerous international travels over many years, I can attest that Global Entry has rescued me multiple times—especially during those crucial moments of making connecting flights. If you're considering whether joining Global Entry would be beneficial, here’s what you should consider.

Benefits of Global Entry

The primary benefit of Global Entry Upon arriving in the United States following an overseas flight, you have access to expedited entry via the Global Entry program. As soon as you touch down, head for a special Global Entry channel leading to a Global Entry kiosk. Typically, there’s no need to present your passport; instead, your identity is confirmed using biometric data to process your admission into the country. After receiving clearance at the kiosk, approach an immigration official who will greet you upon your return to the nation.

In theory, this sounds a little unnecessary. In practice, it’s one of my favorite and most valuable travel benefits. Immigration lines can be long, so avoiding this queue can be the difference between making a connection or missing your flight. You don’t have to deal with any processing lines or paperwork.

Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck The advantages include not needing to apply for separate programs. By using TSA PreCheck, you gain access to a special screening line where you aren’t required to take off your shoes or belt, nor do you have to remove liquids and big electronic devices from your bags. This makes passing through security much quicker when you have TSA PreCheck, allowing you to get to the airport closer to departure time and swiftly make your way through security prior to boarding your plane.

Price and Procedure Information for Applications

The sole drawback of Global Entry is the extensive enrollment procedure; however, it remains relatively simple. Start by setting up an account with the Trusted Traveler Programs, filling out the form, and paying the non-refundable $100 charge. Following this, Customs and Border Protection will examine your submission and inform you whether you've received conditional approval or rejection. Typically, about 80% of submissions get a response within around two weeks, whereas the remaining 20% might experience delays lasting from several months to over a year.

Once you've received conditional approval, you can book an interview at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers. This step tends to be the toughest part of the application process. Given how popular this program has become, spots fill up fast, so make sure to monitor them closely. The number of these centers is smaller compared to TSA PreCheck sites, which means you may need to go out of town for your appointment.

In 2019, when I signed up again, I set up my meeting during a visit to Miami since my local airport didn’t offer enrollment services. Remember to bring both your passport and another piece of ID, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID, with you to this appointment.

After the interview, you’ll receive your card in the mail and can use the benefits immediately. You don’t need to bring your Global Entry card to the airport to utilize the program, but it can’t hurt.

Why the Expense of Global Entry is Justified

Global Entry is highly beneficial for individuals who frequently travel abroad. The price for enrolling anew isn’t much greater than what you’d pay for a fresh TSA PreCheck registration, yet both last equally long. By investing just a bit extra on your Global Entry application, you gain access not only to all the excellent perks offered by TSA PreCheck but also quicker clearance when entering the U.S.

If you expect to travel abroad at least once annually, Global Entry is worthwhile. However, if this isn't frequent enough, consider applying for TSA PreCheck instead; still, enrolling directly into Global Entry wouldn’t be disadvantageous, particularly without imminent overseas journeys. Ensure your passport remains current prior to submitting your application.

Advice on Attaining Global Entry at No Cost

The best way to obtain Global Entry at no cost The aim is to take advantage of statement credits provided by credit cards. Various credit cards include this benefit, ranging from the $95 annual fee Venture Rewards Card from Capital One to the $695 annual fee Amex Platinum Card. However, apart from using these cards, there aren’t alternative methods to obtain Global Entry without cost.

Credit Cards That Have an Annual Fee of Less Than $100:

These cards include:

  • Aeroplan® Credit Card: $95
  • Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card: $0
  • The Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card costs $95.
  • Capital One Venture Card: $95
  • Choice Privileges Select Mastercard®: $95
  • IHG One Rewards Elite Credit Card: $99
  • Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature® Elite Reward Card: $49
  • PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card: Annual fee of $95, which is waived for current PenFed Honors Advantage members.
  • The Provident World+ Travel Visa Signature Card has a $0 introductory annual fee for the initial year, followed by an annual fee of $45 thereafter.
  • United Explorer Card: No initial annual fee for the first year, followed by an annual fee of $95 afterwards.
  • The USAA Eagle Navigator Visa Signature Credit Card has an annual fee of $95.
  • The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card comes with a price tag of $0.
  • The U.S. Bank FlexPerks Gold American Express Card costs $85.

Premium Credit Cards:

  • The Capital One Venture X Card costs $395.
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve® Credit Card: $550
  • Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite MasterCard: $595
  • Platinum Delta SkyMiles American Express Card: $350
  • The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card costs $650.
  • The HSBC Elite World Elite Mastercard costs $395 for eligible HSBC banking customers.
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card: $650
  • MasterCard Black Card: $495
  • MasterCard Gold Card: $995
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express: $695
  • SKYPASS Select Visa Signature Card: $450
  • Truist Enjoy Beyond Credit Card: $195
  • The UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card costs $495.
  • Infinite Card - United Club: $525
  • United Quest Card: $250
  • U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card: $400

Business Credit Cards:

  • The Capital One® Venture X® Business Card costs $395.
  • IHG One Rewards Elite Business Credit Card: $99
  • The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card costs $199.
  • The American Express Business Platinum Card®: $695
  • The Capital One Spark Miles for Business offers a $0 introductory annual fee for the initial year, followed by an annual fee of $95 thereafter.

For many travelers, possessing a credit card that rewards them with significant points for travel-related spending and covers the Global Entry application fee can be highly beneficial. Nevertheless, if acquiring a fresh credit card isn't your preference, shelling out $100 for both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck privileges over half a decade remains easily justified.

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