Key Highlights
- The non-refundable Global Entry application fee is $120 for a five-year membership.
- Your Global Entry membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck benefits at no extra cost.
- Many premium credit cards offer a statement credit that reimburses the Global Entry fee.
- Each family member, including children, must complete a separate application and pay the full fee.
- The application process is handled online through the official government organization’s Trusted Traveler Programs website.
Introduction
If you’re a frequent international traveler, you’ve probably wondered if the Global Entry program is worth the cost. This trusted traveler program is designed to get you through U.S. customs faster, but what does the fee actually cover? Understanding the costs and benefits is key to deciding if it’s the right choice for you. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Global Entry fee, from payment to perks.
Understanding the Global Entry Program
The Global Entry program is one of the U.S. government’s Trusted Traveler Programs, managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is designed to allow pre-approved, low-risk travelers to receive expedited clearance upon arrival in the United States. After a successful application and interview at an enrollment center, you can bypass traditional lines.
This streamlined process makes your international travel experience much smoother. Instead of filling out paper forms and waiting to see a CBP officer, you can use automated kiosks at major airports. Let’s explore who is eligible and the specific advantages of joining.
What Is Global Entry And Who Qualifies?
Global Entry is a program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows pre-screened travelers to enter the United States more quickly. Members can use special kiosks at select airports to verify their identity and make a customs declaration, avoiding the lengthy processing lines.
So, who can apply? The program is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of certain other countries that have international arrangements with the U.S. For example, citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada (through the NEXUS program), and several other nations can apply.
Eligibility depends on being a “low-risk” traveler, which means you cannot have a criminal record, customs violations, or provide false information on your application. The final decision rests with Border Protection after a thorough background check and in-person interview.
Key Benefits Of Enrollment For U.S. Travelers
Enrolling in the Global Entry program offers significant advantages for international travelers. The most well-known benefit is expedited entry into the U.S. You get to skip the long customs lines and use automated kiosks, which can save you a lot of time and hassle after a long flight.
Beyond faster customs clearance, your Global Entry membership includes a valuable bonus: TSA PreCheck membership. This means you also get to enjoy expedited security screening on domestic flights within the United States. You won’t have to remove your shoes, laptops, or light jackets at the airport.
Key benefits include:
- Reduced wait times at U.S. customs and immigration.
- Inclusion of a five-year TSA PreCheck membership.
- Access to expedited entry benefits at land borders and sea ports of entry.
Global Entry Fee Overview
When you decide to apply for Global Entry, the first step is to pay the non-refundable application fee. This fee covers the cost of your background check and the processing of your application. It’s important to only pay this fee through the official government website to avoid scams or third-party service charges.
The current Global Entry application fee is $120 for a five-year membership. This single payment initiates the entire application process, which you complete online. Let’s look at the specifics of the fee and how it has evolved.
Current Application Fee And Payment Process
The current Global Entry fee is a flat $120. This is a non-refundable fee required to process your application, regardless of whether you are ultimately approved for the program. This cost covers a five-year membership, which breaks down to just $24 per year for all the benefits.
You will pay this fee during the online application process. The payment must be made through the official Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website, which is a secure .gov website managed by the Department of Homeland Security. Be cautious of unofficial sites that may charge extra fees.
To complete the payment, you’ll need a credit card. The Global Entry application system accepts major credit cards, making it easy to pay securely online when you submit your information.
Changes To The Fee Structure Over Time
The Global Entry application fee has not remained static. As program costs and benefits evolve, U.S. Customs and Border Protection occasionally adjusts the fee. Recently, the fee was increased to ensure the program remains self-sustaining and continues to offer a high level of service.
Previously, the application fee was $100 for a five-year membership. In 2024, the fee was updated to $120. This change reflects the program’s operational costs and the significant value it provides, including the combined benefit of TSA PreCheck.
Here is a simple breakdown of the recent change:
| Program Fee | Previous Cost (5-Year Membership) | Current Cost (5-Year Membership) |
|---|---|---|
| Global Entry | $100 | $120 |
What Does The Global Entry Fee Cover?
Have you ever wondered what you get for the $120 Global Entry application fee? It’s more than just a background check. The fee unlocks a five-year Global Entry membership that comes with a suite of benefits designed to make your travel experience faster and more convenient, both internationally and domestically.
This single fee provides access to multiple traveler programs. The most significant perk is that it includes full TSA PreCheck benefits, giving you excellent value. Let’s examine exactly what your payment includes.
Program Benefits Included With The Fee
Your Global Entry membership fee is an investment in smoother travel. The primary benefit is expedited processing at U.S. airports upon returning from an international trip. You can use automated kiosks to complete your customs declaration, saving you from standing in long lines.
A major bonus is that your membership automatically grants you TSA PreCheck benefits. You don’t need to apply or pay for it separately. Simply add your Known Traveler Number (also known as your PASS ID) from your Global Entry card to your flight reservations to enjoy faster security screening.
The fee covers:
- Expedited entry at major U.S. airports and preclearance locations.
- TSA PreCheck eligibility for faster security screening.
- Faster processing at land and sea ports of entry.
TSA PreCheck—Is It Part Of The Global Entry Fee?
Yes, TSA PreCheck is absolutely part of the Global Entry fee. This is one of the biggest selling points of the program. When you pay the $120 for Global Entry, you are also getting a five-year membership to TSA PreCheck without any additional applications or fees.
Considering that a standalone TSA PreCheck application costs up to $85, bundling it with Global Entry offers incredible value. For just a little more, you get both expedited security and expedited customs clearance, covering both domestic and international travel.
To activate your TSA PreCheck benefits, you just need to enter your Global Entry PASS ID into the “Known Traveler Number” field when booking your flights. Your boarding pass will then show the TSA PreCheck indicator, allowing you to use the dedicated security lanes.
Refunds, Reimbursements, And Waivers
The $120 Global Entry application fee is non-refundable, which is an important factor to consider before you apply. If your application is denied, you will not get your money back from the government. However, there are ways to cover the cost.
Many popular travel credit cards, like those from American Express or Chase, offer a statement credit that reimburses the application fee. This makes the program essentially free for many cardholders. We’ll explore these options and whether any fee waivers exist.
Are Global Entry Fees Refundable If Denied?
A common question is whether the Global Entry fee is refundable if your application is denied. The short answer is no. The U.S. government considers the $120 an application processing fee, not a membership fee. This means it covers the cost of the extensive background check, regardless of the outcome.
Once you submit your application and payment, the fee is final. If your application is rejected for any reason, you will not receive a refund from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This policy is clearly stated on the official application website.
However, there is a silver lining for some applicants. If you pay the fee with a credit card that offers a Global Entry fee credit, you will typically still receive the statement credit even if your application is denied. The credit card company reimburses the charge, not the government.
Credit Card And Loyalty Program Reimbursement Options
One of the best ways to get Global Entry for free is by using a premium travel credit card. Many cards offer an application fee credit as a cardholder benefit, providing a statement credit of up to $120 when you charge the Global Entry fee to the card.
This perk is widely available on popular cards. The credit typically renews every four to five years, allowing you to cover your renewal fee as well. You simply pay the application fee with your eligible card, and the bank will automatically credit the amount back to your account within a few weeks.
Some cards offering this benefit include:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- United℠ Explorer Card
Eligibility For Fee Waivers Or Discounts
Are there any official fee waivers or discounts available for the Global Entry program? Unfortunately, the U.S. government does not offer any general discounts or fee waiver programs for Global Entry applicants. The $120 application fee is mandatory for everyone who applies, including children.
Unlike some other government application fees, there are no special provisions for students, seniors, military members, or low-income individuals. The official government organization requires every applicant to pay the full amount to cover the costs associated with the security and background checks.
The only way to avoid paying the fee out-of-pocket is by using a credit card that offers an application fee credit. This isn’t a waiver from the government but rather a reimbursement from your credit card issuer, making it the most effective strategy for covering the cost.
Family Applications And Children’s Fees
If you travel internationally with your family, you might be wondering how Global Entry works for children. Unlike TSA PreCheck, where children can accompany an enrolled adult, Global Entry requires every single person, regardless of age, to have their own membership to use the kiosks.
This means each family member, including infants and toddlers, must go through the full application process. A parent or legal guardian must create an account and apply on behalf of a minor, and the fee structure is the same for everyone. Let’s clarify the costs for family applications.
Is The Fee The Same For Kids And Adults?
Yes, the Global Entry fee is exactly the same for children as it is for adults. There is no discounted rate for applicants under 18 years of age. Every individual who applies for the program must pay the full $120 application fee.
This policy often surprises parents, but it’s because each applicant, regardless of age, undergoes a background check and requires a unique membership. A parent or legal guardian must complete the Global Entry application process for their child and consent to their enrollment.
During the in-person interview, the child must be present, and the parent or legal guardian must also attend. So, if you’re planning to enroll your whole family, be sure to budget for a separate $120 fee for each person.
Paying Fees For Each Family Member
As mentioned, every family member needs their own Global Entry membership to use the expedited lanes. This means you must submit a separate application and pay the $120 Global Entry application fee for each person, including infants. You cannot bring unenrolled family members through the Global Entry kiosks with you.
The application process is handled individually for each person through the Trusted Traveler Programs website. A parent or legal guardian will need to create and manage the application for any minor children.
To manage the costs, remember these points:
- Each application requires a separate $120 fee.
- Some credit cards that offer a Global Entry fee credit can be used for someone else’s application. You can charge a family member’s fee to your card to get reimbursed.
- Each member must attend their own interview at a Global Entry enrollment center, though families can often schedule appointments together.
How And Where To Pay The Global Entry Fee
Paying the Global Entry fee is a straightforward part of the online application. The entire process is managed through the official Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website, which is a secure government portal. You should never pay for your application on a third-party site.
The fee is paid at the end of the online application form, just before you submit it for review. This single transaction initiates the background check and moves you one step closer to scheduling your interview at an enrollment center. Let’s walk through the accepted payment methods and steps.
Accepted Payment Methods
When it’s time to pay the Global Entry application fee, the process is simple and secure. The official TTP .gov website accepts payments via credit card. You can use any major credit card, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover, to complete the transaction.
This is the only method for paying the fee. The government does not accept checks, money orders, or other forms of payment for the online application. This ensures the payment is processed quickly and securely, allowing your application to move forward without delay.
Remember to use a credit card that offers a Global Entry fee reimbursement if you have one. By charging the fee to an eligible card, you can receive a statement credit, effectively making the application free.
Step-By-Step Guide To Paying Online
Paying your Global Entry fee online is a simple and secure process integrated into the application itself. Following these steps will ensure you complete your payment correctly on the official .gov website.
First, you need to create an account on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. Once your account is set up, you will fill out the detailed Global Entry online application, which asks for personal information, address history, employment, and travel history.
After you have filled out all the required sections, the final step before submission is payment. Here’s how to do it:
- Navigate to the payment section of the application.
- Enter your credit card information as prompted.
- Review and submit your application. You will receive a confirmation once the payment is processed.
Global Entry Renewal Fees And Timelines
Your Global Entry membership isn’t a one-time deal; it lasts for five years and expires on your birthday of the fifth year. To maintain your benefits, you’ll need to complete a program membership renewal. The renewal process is similar to the initial application and includes paying the fee again.
It’s a good idea to start the renewal process well before your expiration date to avoid any lapse in your benefits. The renewal fee and timeline are important factors to keep in mind. Let’s look at how often you need to pay and how the cost compares.
How Often Does The Fee Need To Be Paid?
The Global Entry application fee must be paid every five years to maintain your membership. Your membership is valid for five years from your next birthday after approval. You can begin the renewal process up to a year before your expiration date.
When you submit your renewal application, you will be prompted to pay the same $120 fee as a new applicant. This fee covers the cost of a new background check and the processing of your renewal application.
It is highly recommended to renew your membership before it expires. U.S. Customs and Border Protection often provides a grace period for members who have submitted a renewal application, allowing them to continue using their benefits while the renewal is pending.
Cost Of Renewing Compared To Initial Application
When it comes to cost, there is no difference between an initial application and a renewal application for Global Entry. The program membership renewal requires you to pay the full application fee again, which is currently $120.
This fee structure ensures that the program can cover the administrative and security costs associated with re-vetting each member every five years. While some members may not need to attend another in-person interview for renewal, the background check is still a mandatory part of the process.
Here’s a comparison of the fees:
| Application Type | Fee for 5-Year Membership |
|---|---|
| Initial Application | $120 |
| Renewal Application | $120 |
Do I Need Global Entry if I Have an International Driver’s Permit?
While an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is useful for driving abroad, it doesn’t facilitate quicker border crossing. If you’re frequently traveling internationally, you might wonder, “what is an international driver’s permit?” Global Entry provides expedited security checks and customs processing, enhancing travel efficiency beyond just driving privileges.
Tips To Maximize Value From Your Global Entry Fee
Once you’ve paid the fee and been approved for Global Entry, you’ll want to make sure you get the most value out of your membership. This means taking advantage of all the included perks, not just the expedited customs lines. From TSA PreCheck benefits to using the new mobile app, there are many features to explore.
It’s also important to be aware of common pitfalls that can disrupt your benefits. Keeping your information up-to-date is crucial. Here are some tips to help you maximize your investment.
Using All Program Features
To get the most out of your Global Entry membership, make sure you use all its features. The most obvious benefit is using the Global Entry kiosks to bypass long customs lines when returning to the U.S. But don’t forget about the other perks.
The biggest added value is the included TSA PreCheck benefits. Always add your Known Traveler Number (PASS ID) to your airline reservations to enjoy expedited security screening on domestic flights. This alone can save you significant time and stress at the airport.
To maximize your membership:
- Use the new Global Entry mobile app at select airports to process your arrival even faster.
- Take advantage of expedited entry at land and sea ports.
- Keep your card with you when traveling, as it is a valid federal ID.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls After Payment
After you’ve paid the fee and completed the application process, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. One of the most important is keeping your personal information current. If you get a new passport or change your name, you must update your TTP account.
Failure to update documents can lead to issues at the airport. You can update your passport information online, but a name change requires a visit to a Global Entry enrollment center. You don’t need an appointment for this type of update.
To ensure a smooth experience:
- Schedule your Global Entry interview as soon as you receive conditional approval.
- Always ensure the name on your flight ticket matches the name on your Global Entry account.
- Activate your Global Entry card as soon as you receive it in the mail.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the Global Entry fee is crucial for travelers looking to streamline their airport experience. This fee not only covers your application but also provides access to benefits that can significantly enhance your travel convenience. With options for reimbursement and waivers, it’s important to explore all avenues to maximize the value of your investment. By knowing the ins and outs of the fee structure and renewal process, you can make informed decisions that suit your travel needs. As you plan your next trip, consider enrolling in the Global Entry program to enjoy a smoother journey through airport security. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, feel free to reach out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Global Entry Fee Automatically Include TSA PreCheck Access?
Yes, your Global Entry membership automatically includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck. You do not need to fill out a separate application or pay an additional fee. Simply add your Global Entry PASS ID as your Known Traveler Number when booking flights to receive TSA PreCheck on your boarding pass.
What Happens If My Global Entry Application Is Denied?
If your Global Entry application is denied, the $120 application fee is non-refundable. The fee covers the cost of processing and the background check, regardless of your approval status. You can find information on the reasons for denial and the reconsideration process on the CBP website.
Can I get the Global Entry fee reimbursed with certain credit cards?
Yes, many premium travel credit cards offer a statement credit that covers the Global Entry fee. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express provide an application fee credit every four to five years. Simply pay the fee with your eligible card to receive the reimbursement.
Are there discounts or waivers available for the Global Entry fee?
No, the official government organization does not offer any discounts or fee waivers for the Global Entry application fee. The $120 cost is the same for all applicants. The only way to have the fee covered is through a statement credit offered by certain credit cards.
Is the Global Entry fee the same for children as it is for adults?
Yes, the Global Entry fee is the same for all applicants, regardless of age. Children, including infants, must have their own individual membership, and the full $120 fee applies to each application. A parent or legal guardian must complete the application process on behalf of a minor.