Which Trusted Traveler program is best?

Overall the best program is Global Entry
Global Entry includes all the advantages of the TSA PreCheck plan plus it allows you access to an express line through customs and immigration on your way back home from international airports and destinations.



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If you are an international traveler, you'll likely benefit more from Global Entry. However, if you only travel domestically, TSA Precheck is a fantastic option. TSA PreCheck comes with: “Fastpass” through airport security - expedited security screening for low-risk travelers departing from U.S. airports.

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If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry. If you take less than four international trips a year, TSA PreCheck is a great choice for domestic travelers.

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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.

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Travelers cannot upgrade from TSA PreCheck to Global Entry
A main reason is that the programs have distinct purposes. TSA PreCheck can help travelers pass through airport security checkpoints. Meanwhile, Global Entry is specifically for travelers arriving in the United States from another country.

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TSA PreCheck membership has no influence on a successful enrollment in Global Entry. The programs have distinct benefits and eligibility requirements. Nevertheless, if you've gone through the application and interview for PreCheck, the process is similar for Global Entry.

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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.

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Choosing CLEAR might make sense if you frequently pass through participating airports and you're willing to invest a bit more money to skip the security ID check line. However, you would need to pair CLEAR with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to speed through customs or airport security without taking off personal items.

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Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck? Yes, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits so you don't need to sign up for both programs.

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The application fee for TSA PreCheck® is $78 for 5 years.

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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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According to a New York Times article, 3 to 5 percent of the 30,000 Global Entry traveler applications submitted each month are rejected. Most common reason? Criminal background checks come up with some sort of red flag that causes the application to be rejected prior to any interview.

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In summary To use Global Entry kiosks, you just need your passport or permanent resident card. However, if you're planning on traveling to Canada or Mexico, consider adding the NEXUS or SENTRI programs to your membership and remember to bring your card with you!

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Benefits of Global Entry
  • No processing lines.
  • No paperwork.
  • Access to expedited entry benefits in other countries.
  • Available at major U.S. airports.
  • Reduced wait times.
  • TSA Pre?® Eligibility.


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Members enter the United States through automatic kiosks at select airports. At airports, program members proceed to Global Entry kiosks, present their machine-readable passport or U.S. permanent resident card, place their fingerprints on the scanner for fingerprint verification and complete a customs declaration.

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How long does it take to get approved? Most applicants receive approval notification in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days.

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