Global Entry is an invaluable membership that saves time while traveling internationally. Unlike TSA PreCheck, you need Global Entry for kids of any age — even infants. The program application and fees for children are the same as for adults.
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The only potential downsides of Global Entry is that it requires fingerprinting and background check and costs $100 every 5 years. Scheduling and completing your Global Entry interview can also be a hassle, which is why taking advantage of Enrollment on Arrival can be wise.
Global Entry is everything that TSA PreCheck is and more. If you have Global Entry, you'll automatically also get TSA PreCheck and all of its benefits. On top of that, you'll get to avoid the general customs line when returning to the U.S. from abroad.
If you rarely travel abroad and don't want to pay for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck is $78 for a five-year membership and gives you expedited security checks at more than 200 select airports in the U.S. If you don't have a U.S. passport, this is the best option.
My travel companions (children, spouse, or co-travelers) are not Global Entry members; can they come through the Global Entry lane with me? No, only Global Entry members can use the Global Entry lanes.
My travel companions (children, spouse or co-travelers) are not Global Entry members; can they come through the Global Entry kiosk with me? No, only Global Entry members can use the Global Entry kiosk.
If you mostly travel domestically and want access to expedited security screening, TSA PreCheck may make sense for you. If you travel internationally and want access to faster customs screening upon reentry to the U.S., consider Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck, instead.
Of course, you'll also need to be arriving from a flight abroad, but at least you can complete the interview without an appointment. It is possible to handle the Global Entry walk-in interview on arrival if you plan.
Global Entry advantagesThe amount of time it'll save you entirely depends on how busy your port of entry is. It might only save you a few minutes if the airport immigration lines are short or it might save you hours if the line at a border crossing is long.