Is Global Entry Worth It? What to Consider Before You Apply

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program offered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. As a full-time digital nomad, there isn't anything I recommend more than Global Entry. I've been traveling internationally for years and have been saved by Global Entry more than once, especially when trying to make a tight connection. Here's how to determine whether Global Entry is worth it for you.

Benefits of Global Entry The primary benefit of Global Entry is expedited entry to the United States from abroad. When you land in the U.S. after an international flight, you can go through a dedicated Global Entry lane to reach a Global Entry kiosk. Most of the time, you don't need to scan your passport — biometric information is used to clear you through immigration. Once the kiosk says you can proceed, you'll go up to an immigration officer who will welcome you back to the country.

In theory, this sounds a little unnecessary. In practice, it's one of my favorite and most valuable travel benefits. Immigration lines can be long, so avoiding this queue can be the difference between making a connection or missing your flight. You don't have to deal with any processing lines or paperwork.

Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck benefits, so you don't need to apply for these programs separately. With TSA PreCheck, you can go through a dedicated security lane, and you won't need to remove your shoes or belts or take liquids and large electronics out of your luggage. Getting through security is significantly faster with TSA PreCheck, so you can arrive at the airport later than usual and breeze through security before boarding your flight.

Cost and Application Process Details The only downside to Global Entry is the lengthy enrollment process, but it's still pretty straightforward. You can create a Trusted Traveler Programs account, complete the application, and pay the $100 non-refundable fee. Then, Customs and Border Protection will review your application and notify you if you have been conditionally approved or denied. Around 80 percent of applications will receive a notification within two weeks, but the other 20 percent can take a year or longer.

After you've been conditionally approved, you can schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. This is the most challenging part of the enrollment process. As the program has gained popularity, available appointments get taken very quickly, so keep an eye out for any openings. There are fewer Global Entry Enrollment Centers than there are TSA PreCheck locations, so you might have to travel for your appointment.

When I enrolled back in 2019, I scheduled my appointment during a trip to Miami, as my home airport was not an enrollment center. Bring your passport and another form of identification, like a driver's license or ID card, to your appointment.

After the interview, you'll receive your card in the mail and can use the benefits immediately. You don't need to bring your Global Entry card to the airport to utilize the program, but it can't hurt.

Why Global Entry Is Worth the Cost Global Entry is worth it for any person who travels internationally at least somewhat regularly. The cost for a new enrollment is only slightly higher than that of a new enrollment in TSA PreCheck, and it lasts for the same amount of time. You can spend slightly more on your application and receive all the great TSA PreCheck benefits, plus expedited entry in the U.S.

If you anticipate traveling internationally even once a year, Global Entry is worth it. If not, it might be easier to apply for TSA PreCheck, but it simply can't hurt to go ahead and enroll in Global Entry, even if you don't have any planned international trips. Make sure you already have a valid passport before you apply.

Tips for Getting Global Entry for Free The best way to get Global Entry for free is to utilize statement credits offered by credit cards. Several credit cards offer this perk, from the $95-annual-fee Venture Rewards Card from Capital One to the $695-annual-fee AmEx Platinum Card. Unfortunately, outside of credit cards, there aren't other ways to get Global Entry for free.

Credit Cards With an Annual Fee Under $100: These cards 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