What is difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

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. Global Entry members also receive TSA PreCheck® benefits as part of their membership.



The primary difference is the scope of travel. TSA PreCheck is designed for domestic security within the US; it allows you to keep your shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and keep your laptop and liquids in your bag. Global Entry is for international travelers returning to the US; it allows you to bypass the traditional customs line and use an automated kiosk/facial recognition. A supportive peer "travel" hack: Global Entry actually includes TSA PreCheck. In 2026, Global Entry costs $120 (recently increased) for five years, while PreCheck is $78. If you plan to leave the country even once in the next five years, it is well worth the extra money to get Global Entry, as you get both benefits for a single application. Both require an in-person interview, but Global Entry's background check is slightly more thorough.

People Also Ask

Global Entry Benefits
  • No processing lines.
  • No paperwork.
  • Access to expedited entry.
  • Available at major U.S. airports.
  • Reduced wait times.


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You book with an airline that doesn't participate in TSA PreCheck.
  • China Southern Airlines.
  • China Eastern Airlines.
  • EasyJet.
  • EgyptAir.
  • Norwegian Airlines.
  • Qatar Airways.
  • Ryanair.
  • Iceland Air.


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Applying for Global Entry is more of a hassle than TSA PreCheck. Here's why: Passport: You must already have a valid passport to apply for Global Entry. Getting a passport comes with its own costs and paperwork.

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Global Entry has the edge if you travel abroad. Global Entry membership also includes TSA PreCheck, giving you even more opportunity to save time as you travel. Some travelers who are considering Clear vs. Global Entry may want to apply for both — especially if they have a lot of international travel in their future.

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Travel Requirements All Japanese Global Entry members must have a valid passport and a valid visa or approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization's (ESTA) application to receive Global Entry benefits and must maintain updated passport/visa information with CBP.

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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.

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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.

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U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, citizens of Switzerland, Germany, the United Kingdom, Argentina, India, Colombia, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, and Mexican nationals are eligible for Global Entry membership.

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The short answer is that Clear allows members to verify their identity using biometric scanning ahead of airport security, whereas Global Entry expedites re-entry into the U.S. after international travel. Clear allows you to hurry through security lines faster at 50-plus airports around the United States.

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