Understanding Trusted Traveler Programs — PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI

Your airport time is valuable. You want to savor a pre-flight snack or drink in a lounge, but arriving too early can lead to long waits before boarding. Fortunately, there are programs designed to help you better manage your time at security.

Trusted Traveler Programs, managed by the Department of Homeland Security, enable members to navigate security more smoothly. The four primary programs available are Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, NEXUS, and SENTRI. While they share many features, you’ll typically need to apply for just one. However, the requirements, fees, and approval times can differ greatly among them. I consulted with Steve Orens, a senior vice president at FROSCH Travel and T+L A-List travel advisor, to put together this guide.

Orens advises anyone looking to apply for these programs to be meticulous. "Prepare thoroughly and complete all required information," he states. "Regularly check the [application] page to monitor progress or submit any additional information needed."

While the application process may take several months or even over a year in some cases, these programs offer substantial benefits for travelers. Here’s everything you need to know about the Trusted Traveler Programs and who should consider applying for each one.

TSA PreCheck

The first and one of the most favored Trusted Traveler Programs is TSA PreCheck, offering travelers expedited security perks. Those enrolled in PreCheck can breeze through TSA airport security without needing to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or jackets. In 99% of instances, travelers pass through security in 10 minutes or less, and often even quicker in my experience.

Enrolling is quite straightforward—just select an enrollment provider, fill out an online application, and visit a local enrollment center for fingerprinting and payment. Once you obtain your Known Traveler Number, the benefits begin. Costs range from $78 to $85 for new enrollments and $70 to $78 for renewals, based on your provider. Some credit cards even cover the TSA PreCheck application fee, making it a fantastic opportunity to enroll.

U.S. citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA PreCheck. Most airports feature dedicated TSA PreCheck security lines. If unavailable, you’ll receive a membership card allowing you to use the regular line but enjoy the same benefits.

Global Entry

Global Entry streamlines the customs process for travelers returning to the U.S. from international destinations. Members can access a special Global Entry lane to use a kiosk that captures their photo for membership verification. After that, they proceed to a Customs and Border Patrol officer, and they're good to go. Global Entry includes all TSA PreCheck benefits, so separate applications for both programs are unnecessary.

Global Entry is designed for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. As part of the enrollment process, you will undergo a background check and an in-person interview. Typically, this interview takes place at an enrollment center before you depart. If you miss it, you can complete the interview upon returning to the U.S. via Enrollment on Arrival.

Recently, it was announced that you can also complete your Global Entry enrollment with Enrollment on Departure, a new feature currently offered only at Washington Dulles International Airport. The application fee is $100, but similar to PreCheck, many credit cards will reimburse you for this fee as long as you haven't already received reimbursement for TSA PreCheck.

Global Entry members can also confirm their arrival in the U.S. using a Global Entry mobile app at designated airports, making the process even more efficient. 

Eligible individuals for Global Entry include:

• U.S. citizens
• U.S. lawful permanent residents
• Citizens of Argentina
• Citizens of Brazil
• Citizens of Bahrain
• Citizens of India
• Citizens of Colombia
• Citizens of the United Kingdom
• Citizens of Germany
• Citizens of the Netherlands
• Citizens of Panama
• Citizens of Singapore
• Citizens of South Korea
• Citizens of Switzerland
• Citizens of Taiwan
• Mexican nationals

Depending on your citizenship, there may be additional eligibility requirements. Canadian citizens and residents can also enjoy Global Entry benefits through NEXUS membership. 

NEXUS

NEXUS operates similarly to Global Entry but is tailored for entry points in Canada. It can be utilized for travel by land, air, or sea. Members benefit from expedited processing lanes when crossing into the U.S. and Canada, including dedicated lanes at northern border crossings, NEXUS kiosks at Canadian airports, Global Entry kiosks at U.S. Preclearance airports, and faster processing at marine reporting stations. 

Eligible applicants for NEXUS include U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian lawful permanent residents, and Mexican nationals who belong to Viajero Confiable. The approval process is lengthier compared to Global Entry or TSA PreCheck since it requires consent from both the U.S. and Canada. On average, it takes about 12 to 14 months, and the application fee is $50. To apply, simply submit your application and arrange an interview at an enrollment center, where you will need to meet with both U.S. and Canadian officials. NEXUS also provides TSA PreCheck advantages. 

SENTRI

The last Trusted Traveler Program is SENTRI, which facilitates expedited entry into the U.S. from both Canada and Mexico. SENTRI operates similarly to NEXUS but offers advantages at both the northern and southern U.S. borders. Members can access dedicated processing lanes at southern land border crossings, the NEXUS lane when traveling from Canada by land, and Global Entry kiosks for air travel. There are no specific citizenship requirements for SENTRI eligibility; however, Mexican nationals wishing to use the Global Entry kiosk for air travel must apply for Global Entry through their Trusted Traveler account. 

This program has the highest application fee at $122.25, and the processing time is somewhat shorter than NEXUS, ranging from 10 to 12 months. The application process follows the same steps as the other programs: submit an application, obtain conditional approval, and schedule an interview at an enrollment center. Remember to bring your vehicle registration and proof of U.S. automobile insurance to your interview. SENTRI also includes TSA PreCheck benefits. 

Which Trusted Traveler Program is best suited for you?

The ideal program for you hinges on your travel patterns, budget, and timing. For domestic travel, TSA PreCheck is probably the best choice, offering all the security perks with some of the fastest processing times. If you make a few international trips each year, Global Entry could be a superb alternative. Having Global Entry has greatly simplified my travels; it provides all the PreCheck benefits along with quick customs clearance upon returning to the U.S., whether for layovers or final destinations. Plus, many credit cards cover this application fee!

NEXUS and SENTRI are both outstanding options for frequent travelers between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico. While they generally offer similar PreCheck advantages, they do not include Global Entry benefits when arriving in the U.S. from other countries, so it's wise to consider the advantages and disadvantages before applying. Enrollment in each program is valid for five years, allowing you to enjoy the perks for an extended period before needing to renew. 

Orens emphasizes the importance of considering both present and future timelines. “For example, TSA PreCheck is included with Global Entry, but you can only renew your TSA PreCheck during your Global Entry renewal,” he explains. “Therefore, when your Global Entry expires, your PreCheck does too. If you can't find time to [renew] Global Entry, you won't regain your PreCheck until you do.”