Travel can be a hassle. Between long security lines when you’re trying to make your flight to even longer customs lines when you’re returning to the US, no one ever said the “travel” part of traveling was fun. But if you can’t make it fun, the least you can do is make it convenient. That’s where programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck come into play. Meant to help streamline the travel experience for qualifying members, these Trusted Traveler Programs can take some of the stress out of flying. But which program is right for you? Here’s the breakdown you need to decide between Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck.
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Table of Contents
- What Is the Difference Between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?
- What Is TSA PreCheck?
- What Is Global Entry?
- Final Verdict: Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck
- Upgrade More Than Just Your Airport Experience with Next Vacay
What Is the Difference Between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are Trusted Traveler programs designed to fast-track members through airport security. However, they have distinct differences, mainly in their purpose and function. TSA PreCheck provides expedited screening on flights leaving the US. In contrast, Global Entry expedites airport screening for travelers entering the US. And it’s worth noting that while TSA PreCheck is less expensive and easier to get, Global Entry comes with TSA PreCheck benefits included. So, because the two programs differ in such a major way, it’s worth understanding what each program is, what it does, and how it can impact your future travel before committing to an application. So let’s get into it.
What Is TSA PreCheck?
As you might have guessed from the name, TSA PreCheck is run by the Transportation Security Administration. The program helps to expedite travelers’ screening process by providing access to a designated lane that fast-tracks members through security checkpoints. Available at over 200 airports nationwide, TSA PreCheck allows for an easy and efficient experience for approved travelers going through airport screening. However, it’s worth noting that this program is only available for domestic flights leaving a US airport.
What Are the Benefits of TSA PreCheck?
The main benefits of TSA PreCheck include access to dedicated lanes and expedited screening. And while those might sound like minor inconveniences at the airport, avoiding them can feel like winning the lottery, especially when they keep the line moving and keep you from missing your flight.
Dedicated TSA PreCheck Lanes
Over 200 airports and 90 airlines provide dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at security. These lanes allow members to move through screening quickly and avoid the long lines that often occur in the standard lanes.
Expedited Security Screening
Travelers with TSA PreCheck enjoy an expedited security screening process. TSA PreCheck travelers aren’t required to remove certain items from their person, like belts or shoes, or remove specific items from their bags, like electronics and liquids. This keeps the line moving and helps ensure members don’t wait more than 10 minutes.
Eligibility and Application Process
Who Can Apply for TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is open to all US citizens, US nationals, and lawful permanent residents, barring any disqualifying offenses.
Application Procedure
The application process is fairly simple. Travelers can complete the first part of their TSA PreCheck application online by creating an account and answering questions about themselves. Once submitted, the next step is to schedule an in-person interview. During the in-person interview, applicants must:
- Present identification documents
- Submit to a background check
- Have their fingerprints taken
- Pay the nonrefundable fee
Appointments are usually brief, and you can ensure they go quickly by bringing all required documents and a form of payment with you.
After the interview, TSA will notify you of your TSA PreCheck application status and let you know whether your application has been approved, denied, or needs further information. Once approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you’ll need to use when making your future flight reservations in order to get TSA PreCheck status for your flight.
Application Fee
The cost to apply to the TSA PreCheck program starts at $76.75 and can go up depending on which provider you choose to enroll through. Travelers must renew their membership every five years to continue receiving benefits. The cost for renewal begins at $58.75 for online renewals and $66.75 for in-person renewals.
Many popular travel credit cards will reimburse the application fee with a flat-rate statement credit available once every four years to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck.
What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is another Trusted Traveler Program, but instead of the TSA, it’s run by US Customs and Border Protection. Global Entry’s purpose is similar to TSA PreCheck’s, but as the name suggests, the program focuses on international travel. With Global Entry, pre-approved international travelers get access to special lanes that allow them to bypass passport control lines and paper customs declarations, thereby expediting their customs process. The program is available at over 75 airports worldwide and has a free app to make the process even smoother.
What Are the Benefits of Global Entry?
Global Entry encompasses multiple benefits, from fast-tracking members through customs to expediting security checks on domestic flights.
Expedited Customs and Immigration Clearance
The main benefit that members of Global Entry can enjoy is the expedited customs experience. With Global Entry, members have access to designated Global Entry lanes and kiosks that they can use to bypass the long lines and screening process at customs.
Includes TSA PreCheck
Another major upside to having Global Entry in your travel arsenal is TSA PreCheck. In addition to an expedited customs process, members of Global Entry also gain access to TSA PreCheck benefits, which include fast-track lanes and expedited security screenings to create a faster and smoother airport experience from departure to return.
Eligibility and Application Process
Who Can Apply for Global Entry?
Global Entry eligibility is open to citizens and permanent residents of the United States, as well as citizens of the following countries:
- Argentina
- Australia
- Brazil
- Bahrain
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Dominican Republic
- Germany
- India
- Japan
- Mexican Nationals
- The Netherlands
- Panama
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
Application Procedure
The application process for Global Entry is fairly straightforward. After creating a Trusted Traveler Programs Account, travelers can complete the Global Entry application online, which requires a $120 nonrefundable fee. After submission, CBP can take anywhere from a few business days to several months to grant conditional approval. Once given, applicants can schedule their in-person interview. During the in-person interview, applicants must:
- Answer a few questions
- Pose for a photo
- Get their biometric information collected
After the interview and approval, you can begin using Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. You’ll receive a Trusted Traveler membership number called a Pass ID, which you can also use to access TSA PreCheck benefits when traveling.
Application Fee
Global Entry doesn’t have many fees, just a one-time charge of $120 due at the time you submit your application. The fee is nonrefundable, whether your application is approved or denied. If approved, your membership lasts for five years before it needs to be renewed. Upon renewal, you will have to pay the fee again, but the good news is that many travel credit cards will cover the cost of the Global Entry application through a credit that’s available every four years or so.
Final Verdict: Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck
Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck have their benefits and uses, but choosing one or the other depends on the type of travel you plan to do. If you’re a domestic traveler who has never stepped foot outside the country and has no plans to, it makes sense to sign up for TSA PreCheck and pay the lower fee to expedite your domestic experience and minimize your time in the airport. However, it only makes sense for international travelers to pay the additional cost and sign up for Global Entry to enjoy the benefits of expedited customs and security screenings on domestic and international flights.
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