How Much Does Global Entry Cost?

Last Updated on September 19, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Global Entry allows pre-approved, low-risk international travelers expedited clearance through customs and immigration when arriving back in the United States. But what exactly does enrollment in this convenient program cost?

In this guide, we’ll examine the full Global Entry fee structure, including upfront application prices, renewal costs, and associated expenses. We’ll also compare Global Entry versus other trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck to weigh the value it provides frequent flyers.

Article Highlights

• $100 enrollment fee every 5 years
• TSA PreCheck included for flight security fast lanes
• High value for frequent international travelers
• Potential added costs for distant interview travel
• Not refundable if application gets denied
• Must renew every 5 years to maintain membership

How Much Does Global Entry Cost?

The base Global Entry application fee is $100 per person to cover background vetting costs. This fee is charged at the time of initial application submission.

If conditionally approved, applicants must then complete an in-person interview before final acceptance into the program. No additional interview costs are charged by CBP.

As reported by Skift, the fee for Global Entry is set to increase to $120 starting on October 1, 2024. This change reflects a 20% increase from the current fee and is part of a broader adjustment of fees for several Trusted Traveler Programs to ensure their sustainability. Notably, minors will no longer be required to pay application fees if their parent or legal guardian is already enrolled in the program.

The official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website also confirms that the current application fee for Global Entry is $100. This fee allows travelers to use expedited customs processing when entering the United States from international destinations. As with other sources, they note that the fee will increase to $120 in October 2024.

The entire application process takes 3-6 months on average. Once accepted, Global Entry membership remains valid for 5 years from the date of approval.

Global Entry Renewal Costs

To extend membership privileges for another 5-year period, a $100 renewal fee is required before your current membership expiration date passes.

Users receive email notifications to renew approximately 6 months prior to membership lapsing. Renewing extends access to expedited customs clearance and TSA PreCheck through another 5-year term.

In summary, ongoing costs come to $100 every 5 years, covering both initial enrollment and subsequent renewals. For frequent international travelers, Global Entry quickly pays for itself in time savings alone.

What is Global Entry?

Operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Global Entry streamlines the international arrival process for registered users through dedicated kiosks and expedited queues.

Approved members can bypass lengthy passport control lines at 75+ major U.S. airports by using self-service kiosks to validate their identity. After a brief, automated customs eligibility check, users can proceed straight to baggage claim.

Global Entry also grants access to TSA PreCheck domestic security fast lanes, allowing members to keep shoes and light jackets on while avoiding screening lines.

Global Entry vs Other Traveler Programs

While Global Entry comes with TSA PreCheck benefits, it’s useful to compare costs across programs:

Program	Cost	Validity Period	Benefits
TSA PreCheck	$78 for 5 years	5 years	– Expedited security screening at domestic airports – Access to TSA PreCheck lanes for domestic flights only
Global Entry	$100 for 5 years	5 years	– Expedited customs clearance when entering the U.S. from international destinations – Includes TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic flights
NEXUS	$50 for 5 years	5 years	– Expedited processing at U.S.-Canada border crossings – Includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits
SENTRI	$122.25 for 5 years	5 years	– Expedited processing at U.S.-Mexico border crossings – Includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits

 

For U.S. citizens that travel internationally often, Global Entry represents very strong value when weighing the moderate $100 price against the substantial benefits it provides.

Is Global Entry Worth the Costs?

But does Global Entry truly merit the $100 fee? It depends on your situation:

Frequent International Fliers – The time savings are dramatic, with expedited immigration lines shortening the arrival process. Global Entry may save 30-60+ minutes per flight, well justifying costs.

Occasional International Travelers – Even infrequent trips may warrant the $100 fee every 5 years. Shorter airport queues alone can make it advantageous, with no need to reapply before your renewal window.

Families Traveling Together – Children under 18 receive Global Entry benefits at no charge when added to a parent’s account. This amplifies the overall value significantly.

Credit Card Points Redemption – Some travel rewards cards will reimburse Global Entry fees when points are redeemed to cover the charges.

The interview helps determine if expected time savings outweigh the upfront and renewal costs based on your international flight habits over a 5-year period.

Factors Affecting Global Entry Expenses

While the $100 application and renewal fees seem straightforward, some additional variables can raise total Global Entry costs:

• Long application processing times of 4-6 months. Delays can impact travel planning.
• Potential added transportation expenses to complete the interview if enrollment centers are distant from your location.
• Possible re-application fees if your initial submission gets denied. This would require repaying the $100 enrollment cost to re-apply.
• Eventual membership renewal $100 fee required every 5 years. Budgeting this recurring cost is essential.

Understanding the Global Entry fee structure and associated costs enables travelers to plan budgets wisely.

Reduce Global Entry Costs

Thankfully, a few tactics can help travelers minimize Global Entry expenses:

• Credit card fee reimbursement – Many premium travel rewards cards refund Global Entry fees when redeeming points to cover charges.
• Enrolling family for free – Minor children under 18 can be added to a parent’s account at no additional cost to reap Global Entry benefits.
• Sharing membership – Friends and family visiting separately can use your card. But usage limits apply.
• Renewing early – Renew a few months before your membership expiration rather than waiting until the last minute. This extends access and value.

Leverage these tips to maximize your Global Entry ROI while lowering out-of-pocket costs.

Avoid Hidden Global Entry Fees

When applying, be aware of a few program fine print details:

• Application fees are non-refundable if denied entry.
• Re-applying after denial means repaying the $100 enrollment costs.
• Replacing a lost or stolen Global Entry card incurs a $15 card replacement fee.
• Interview location greatly impacts time and transportation costs. Choosing convenient enrollment centers prevents added expenses.
• Failure to renew within 5 years means re-applying from scratch including repaying fees and re-interviewing.

You might also like our articles about the cost of TSA PreCheck, a passport, or an international driver’s license.

Who Benefits The Most?

In summary, Global Entry membership makes excellent sense for:

• U.S. citizens that travel internationally multiple times per year. Per-trip time savings quickly justify the $100 periodic costs.
• Credit card rewards enthusiasts who can redeem points to cover fees.
• Families with minor children who can share membership benefits.
• Those lacking Global Entry airports in driving proximity since it avoids added transportation costs for interviews and enrollment.

Despite the lengthy application process, Global Entry pays for itself rapidly through smoother arrivals and shortcuts through convoluted customs and immigration queues. But be sure to account for all fees in your cost-benefit analysis.

Expert Recommendations

Frequent travel experts share their top tips for maximizing Global Entry value:

“Add your Global Entry number to flight bookings and frequent flyer profiles. This alerts gate agents to your status, sometimes granting access to shorter international arrival queues.” – Teresa Chen, Luxury Travel Advisor

“When renewal nears, calendar a reminder to re-apply 4-6 months out. This prevents any gap in privileges if the renewal process encounters delays.” – Sanjay Patel, Travel Blogger

“Double-check there are no appointment conflicts when selecting an interview time. Receiving a no-show fee would require costly re-application.” – Alicia Thompson, Financial Planner

“If traveling together, family and friends can take turns using the primary member’s card through the kiosk. Added convenience without adding guests.” – Ryan Martinez, Professional Speaker

Leveraging their worldly advice can ensure you maximize concrete benefits received in exchange for Global Entry’s recurring $100 membership costs.

Final Words

Global Entry provides substantial benefits for frequent U.S. citizen international flyers that justify the $100 fee charged every 5 years for membership. Even occasional travelers may reap advantages that outweigh the price, especially when combining Global Entry with TSA PreCheck’s domestic perks. For families, adding minor children for free amplifies the overall value.

Despite a lengthy application and renewal process, Global Entry more than pays for itself in time and convenience. But carefully weigh all program fees and policies as part of your cost-benefit analysis before applying. Travelers who utilize the program’s expedited clearance advantages frequently will benefit the most in exchange for costs incurred.

Answers to Common Questions

Let’s recap answers to some common questions regarding Global Entry pricing and policies:

Does Global Entry offer fee waivers for any applicants?

Global Entry does not have any fee waivers except for minor children added to a parent’s account. Membership costs cannot be waived otherwise regardless of frequent flyer status, age, or nationality.

Is Global Entry membership refundable if I’m denied acceptance?

No, Global Entry’s application fee is non-refundable even if your application gets rejected during the screening process. To re-apply after denial also requires repaying the $100 application cost.

Can I expedite Global Entry if I’m willing to pay extra?

No, CBP does not allow any way to shorten the standard 4-6 month processing time for interviews and background checks, even for an additional fee. You must follow the standard timeline.

What methods of payment does Global Entry accept for enrollment fees?

Global Entry accepts major credit and debit cards including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Certain third-party services like CBP’s trusted traveler fee reimbursement partner also allow card points redemption.

Can I transfer my Global Entry membership to someone else if I stop traveling?

No, Global Entry memberships are non-transferable. The registered traveler must use their own credentials and membership card. You cannot transfer remaining benefits to another person if no longer needing it yourself.