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The cost of Global Entry

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    Quick insights

    • The Global Entry application fee is $120 as of January 2025.
    • If approved, Global Entry status is good for five years.
    • If your application is denied, you will not be refunded the application fee.

    After a long international flight, you probably don’t want to wait in a customs line as soon as you land on U.S. soil. For travelers who want to fast track this process, Global Entry may be an option.

    Global Entry aims to reduce wait time at international security checkpoints and U.S. customs. But this Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) created by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) is not free nor available to everyone.

    Read to learn more about the costs associated with Global Entry and the potential benefits of this program.

    Understanding the cost for Global Entry

    Global Entry is a CPB program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the U.S. The cost for Global Entry is $120, which covers a five-year membership.

    While a Global Entry application is an upfront expense, the program can provide value over time, especially for frequent international travelers.

    You may be able to have some or all of the application fee covered via reimbursement as a benefit of your credit card. Some credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card, may apply a statement credit to the cost of your Global Entry application as a card benefit.

    Breaking down the cost of Global Entry

    The $120 cost for Global Entry is the application fee. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

    There are no additional costs associated with the application process. While the application fee is a one-time cost, members will need to pay the fee again in five years if they choose to renew their Global Entry status.

    The application process for Global Entry includes:

    • An online application
    • Background check
    • In-person interview with a CBP officer

    After submitting an application, applicants can expect to wait a few weeks for conditional approval, after which they will need to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry enrollment center. Depending on the location and demand, there may be a waiting period to secure an appointment.

    Potential additional costs

    Global Entry appointments are conducted in specific locations-often airports and CPB offices. Not all states have enrollment centers, so there are potential travel costs to the nearest Global Entry enrollment center for the required interview. It may be easiest to schedule your interview at a time when you’re already traveling.

    Other additional costs may include:

    • If an application is denied, and the applicant decides to reapply they will need to pay the $120 fee again.
    • If an applicant needs to update their passport or other required identification documents as part of the application process.

    Global Entry benefits

    The main benefit of Global Entry is expedited clearance through U.S. Customs and Border Protection when entering the U.S. Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck® status, which provides expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports for domestic flights.

    Travelers with Global Entry status won't need to pay an additional fee to access TSA PreCheck security lanes.

    Other benefits of Global Entry can include:

    • No need to fill out customs declaration forms when entering the U.S.
    • Faster processing times when entering the U.S.
    • Travelers typically do not need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets during TSA PreCheck screenings
    • Access to expedited entry programs in other countries through reciprocal agreements
    • The potential for fewer missed flight connections

    The cost of Global Entry compared to other travel programs

    Global Entry is one of a few common TTPs. Other TTPs that travelers might consider are:

    • TSA PreCheck: Allows for expedited screenings at participating U.S. airports for domestic flights only.
    • NEXUS: Allows for expedited screenings at border crossing between the U.S. and Canada.
    • CLEAR: Allows for expedited screenings at participating airports, stadiums, venues and arenas in the U.S. It is not affiliated with the U.S. government.
    • CLEAR Plus: A paid airport security program that allows travelers to skip initial security lines where TSA agents review a passenger’s travel identification.

    At the time of publication, Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and NEXUS memberships are valid for 5 years. CLEAR and CLEAR Plus status is good for one year. These prices are accurate as of January 2025.

    In summary

    Global Entry will likely be the most useful to travelers who often take international flights. You’ll be able to access expedited screenings for domestic flights with Global Entry too because Global Entry status includes TSA PreCheck. However, a TSA PreCheck membership costs less than Global Entry. If you decide Global Entry is worth it and you are approved, you’ll have 5 years before you’ll need to consider renewing your membership and repaying the Global Entry fee. 

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