Does fast track get you through passport control quicker?

Our FastTrack passes give you access to a dedicated lane straight to the security checkpoint. When returning from your journey, benefit from access to a dedicated lane and a faster route to Passport Control.



In 2026, the term "Fast Track" often refers to two distinct services: expedited security screening and expedited passport control. While many travelers purchase Fast Track to skip the lines at the initial security checkpoint, its impact on passport control (immigration) depends heavily on the specific airport and your nationality. At major hubs like London Heathrow or Dubai International, there are dedicated "Fast Track" or "Priority" lanes for passport control, but these are typically reserved for First and Business Class passengers or top-tier frequent flyers rather than a service you can simply buy for £5. For most travelers, the "gold standard" for getting through passport control quicker is utilizing e-Gates (biometric gates) or memberships like Global Entry and Nexus. If you are a "Visa National" or require a manual stamp, a Fast Track pass for security will not help you once you reach the immigration hall, where everyone is subject to the same governmental processing times. Always check if your arrival terminal offers a specific "VIP Arrivals" service if your goal is to bypass the primary border queues.

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Passport Control FastTrack aims to give you the quickest access to Passport Control using the exclusive lane, so it is ideal for passengers who don't need to wait in Baggage Reclaim for their bags to be delivered by the airlines.

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In short, fast track security is whereby passengers can pay a fee to use a priority lane at airport security to skip the standard queues. By having a fast track pass, passengers are able to be screened quicker than if they were to wait in the regular queue.

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Overall, it all depends on what type of traveller you are. If you can bear spending an extra few minutes in the queue, then it may not be worth the spend. But if you're travelling with small kids or on a tight turnaround, an Airport Fast Track pass might just save you a headache.

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Fast Track Security
TSA Precheck is a service that allows some passengers departing from US airports to fast track the security screening process.

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Security Fast Track
Fast Track allows passengers to have preferential access to a dedicated lane straight to the security checkpoint, speeding up the checkpoint process.

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TSA PreCheck® provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from U.S. Airports. Global Entry provides expedited U.S. customs screening for international air travelers when entering the United States.

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Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Clear TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that allows those who are enrolled to go through an airport security line that is usually shorter and faster than the regular line.

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Many airports offer a security fast-tracking scheme. With a fast track security pass, passengers can enter a priority lane to skip the queues at security screening. This means reaching the security search-area quicker, allowing for more time to relax in the departure lounge before flying.

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In most cases, you'll go through customs and immigration after your flight first arrives in a new country, but there are exceptions. For example, some countries have mutual agreements intended to help speed travelers through the process, so you may go through customs and immigration before you board.

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The TSA PreCheck® Application Program is only open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents. Applicants may be ineligible due to incomplete or false application information, certain violations of federal security regulations, or disqualifying criminal offenses and factors.

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If I am TSA PreCheck® eligible, am I guaranteed expedited screening? No, TSA uses unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, throughout the airport. All travelers will be screened, and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.

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TSA PreCheck® is available when you depart from a U.S. airport to a foreign country, and for domestic, connecting flights after you return to the United States. If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry instead of TSA PreCheck®.

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For domestic flights in the United States, most airlines recommend that passengers arrive at the airport at least 1-2 hours before the scheduled departure time for check-in and security screening.

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And generally, airports don't want you to go through security too early to avoid overcrowding the airport. In general, the earliest time when you can go through security is 2-4 hours before the flight if you have checked baggage or as soon as the security checkpoints open on the same day.

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You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

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About 1% of all applications received by Global Entry and TSA PreCheck applications are denied.

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