Is Global Entry Worth It? Key Factors to Consider Before Applying

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program provided by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. As a full-time digital nomad, I highly recommend Global Entry. Having traveled internationally for years, it has saved me on numerous occasions, particularly when making tight connections. Here’s how to assess if Global Entry is right for you.

Advantages of Global Entry

The main advantage of Global Entry is the swift entry into the United States after traveling internationally. Upon landing in the U.S., you can use a dedicated Global Entry lane to access a Global Entry kiosk. Often, there’s no need to scan your passport — instead, your biometric data is used for immigration clearance. Once the kiosk indicates you're clear, you'll proceed to an immigration officer who will warmly welcome you back.

While this might seem somewhat excessive in theory, in practice, it’s one of my most cherished and essential travel perks. Immigration lines can stretch for ages, so skipping this queue could mean the difference between catching a connecting flight or missing it altogether. You won’t have to contend with processing lines or paperwork.

Global Entry also provides TSA PreCheck advantages, eliminating the need to apply for these programs separately. With TSA PreCheck, you can use a dedicated security lane, and there's no requirement to remove your shoes, belts, or extract liquids and large electronics from your bags. This significantly accelerates the security process, allowing you to arrive at the airport closer to your flight time and swiftly make your way through security before boarding.

Cost and Application Process Overview

The only drawback of Global Entry is the lengthy enrollment procedure, though it remains relatively straightforward. You can set up a Trusted Traveler Programs account, fill out the application, and pay the non-refundable fee of $100. After that, Customs and Border Protection will evaluate your application and inform you whether you’ve been conditionally approved or denied. About 80 percent of applicants receive a notification within two weeks, while the remaining 20 percent might wait a year or more.

Once you’re conditionally approved, you can book an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. This part of the enrollment process can be tricky. With the program’s growing popularity, available slots fill up quickly, so stay vigilant for any openings. There are fewer Global Entry Enrollment Centers compared to TSA PreCheck locations, which means you might need to travel to your appointment.

When I enrolled back in 2019, I arranged my appointment during a trip to Miami since my home airport didn’t have an enrollment center. Make sure to bring your passport and another form of ID, like a driver’s license or ID card, to your appointment.

After your interview, your Global Entry card will arrive in the mail, and you can start enjoying the benefits right away. You don’t need to present your Global Entry card at the airport to use the program, but having it on hand is beneficial.

Reasons Why Global Entry Justifies the Expense

Global Entry is definitely worthwhile for anyone who travels internationally on a somewhat regular basis. The fee for new enrollment is only marginally higher than that for TSA PreCheck, and it offers the same duration of benefits. By spending a little more on your application, you can enjoy all the fantastic TSA PreCheck advantages, along with expedited entry into the U.S.

If you expect to travel internationally even once a year, Global Entry is a great investment. If not, you might find it simpler to apply for TSA PreCheck, but enrolling in Global Entry can still be beneficial, even if you don’t have any upcoming international trips. Just ensure that you have a valid passport before you apply.

Strategies for Securing Global Entry Without Cost

The most effective way to obtain Global Entry at no cost is by taking advantage of statement credits provided by certain credit cards. Various cards offer this benefit, ranging from the $95 annual fee Venture Rewards Card from Capital One to the $695 annual fee AmEx Platinum Card. Sadly, aside from credit cards, there are no other options to acquire Global Entry for free.

Credit Cards With Annual Fees Below $100:

These include:

• Aeroplan® Credit Card: $95
• Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card: $0
• Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card: $95
• Capital One Venture Card: $95
• Choice Privileges Select Mastercard®: $95
• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card: $99
• Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card: $49
• PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card: $95, waived for existing PenFed Honors Advantage Members
• Provident World+ Travel Visa Signature Card: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $45
• United Explorer Card: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
• USAA Eagle Navigator Visa Signature Credit Card: $95
• U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card: $0
• U.S. Bank FlexPerks Gold American Express Card: $85

Premium Credit Card Options:

• Capital One Venture X Card: $395
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® Credit Card: $550
• Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite MasterCard: $595
• Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card: $350
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card: $650
• HSBC Elite World Elite Mastercard: $395 for qualifying HSBC clients
• 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
• UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card: $495
• United Club Infinite Card: $525
• United Quest Card: $250
• U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card: $400

Business Credit Card Options:

• Capital One® Venture X® Business Card: $395
• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card: $99
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card: $199
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: $695
• Capital One Spark Miles for Business: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95

For many travelers, a credit card that offers the ability to earn valuable points on travel-related purchases and covers the Global Entry application fee is well worth it. However, if you're not keen on applying for a new card, spending just $100 for five years of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits is a sensible choice.