Today’s fast-paced world is no different than yesterday’s … people have places to go and places to be. This is especially true when it comes to vacation. There is no time to waste when you step away from that office and out of those business clothes. The beach resort and fancy drink with the little umbrella is calling.
When all is said and done, it is no different when travelers return: you want to get through those lines at the airport as quickly as possible, get home and get settled as you return to normal life. This is especially the case if you are traveling international and now need to return through Customs at the airport. Inevitably, what is waiting for you once you deboard is a very, very long line of grumpy, tired travelers who are just like you … they all want to get through as quickly as possible. And you know what? Regardless of what all those travelers want, Customs Agents still have a few questions to ask.
What if there was a way to bypass this and get through the Border check even quicker? Well, there is, and you have probably heard of it. Global Entry is a program that has been around for a while and one that you, world-weary traveler, may want to look into. Don’t worry. We have all the information you need about the Global Entry program and if it’s worth it, right here.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that was activated in 2008 and then expanded in 2009. It is an official Trusted Traveler Program that expedites the entry of pre-approved members. Global Entry has allowed its members to bypass traditional inspection lines and to instead use an automated kiosk to for re-entry into the United States.
This program is a great fit for frequent international travelers and is highly rated by business travelers who regularly fly overseas.
The Global Entry program is comparative to TSA PreCheck or the newest Trusted Traveler Program, CLEAR. With all the options available, it is easy to get confused on what is the best deal or match for each type of traveler. We did a deep dive into the specifics of becoming a member of each of the Trusted Traveler Programs to determine whether Global Entry is worth it.
Pros and Cons of the Global Entry Program
The Pros of Global Entry
- No processing lines
- No paperwork
- Expedited immigration lines upon return
- Five year membership
The Cons of Global Entry
- Not available in as many airports as other options
- Application processing may be subject to delays based on the time of year
- Not beneficial for frequent domestic flyers
Other Options for Travelers Besides Global Entry
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are popular Trusted Traveler Programs. Both programs allow registered members to verify their identity so they can swiftly get through security lines.
CLEAR has separate lanes and uses a biometric security system (scanning fingerprints and irises) to get its members through lines quicker. The CLEAR kiosks are popular due to their efficiency. Members do not have to wait for screening agents to verify their identity, they simply scan their boarding pass, eyes and fingerprint, then go directly to the physical security screening area.
TSA PreCheck is different in that it still uses a screening agent to verify identity. TSA members do not have to do invasive security screening procedures like removing shoes, electronics, liquids and outerwear, so that speeds up the process. However, some delays may arise if volume is high in the airport and many travelers also have TSA PreCheck.
Neither program exempts their members from going through carry-on and security screening processes after their identities are confirmed.
What Is the Difference Between Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are similar programs that provide travelers with a streamlined experience on the way to their next destination. Here are the distinguishing features of each option.
Consider Your Eligibility
Global entry is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and U.S. lawful permanent residents. Passport holders from Argentina, Colombia, Germany, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United Kingdom can apply for Global Entry. Additionally, Canadian citizens and residents that are enrolled in Nexus may also have access to Global Entry.
TSA PreCheck is only available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents.
CLEAR is only available to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents with photo ID that are over the age of 18. Unlike Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, CLEAR does not require its applicants to submit to pass a background check.
So, considering eligibility requirements, Global Entry accepts a wider pool of applicants and may be a better option for those taking a lot more international trips but has a slightly complex application process.
Application Process for Each Trusted Traveler Program
The first step to becoming a Global Entry member is to submit an online application. If the applicant successfully passes a background check then a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent will reach out to conduct an interview. There are over 100 Global Entry enrollment centers in the United States, Canada and Qatar. First time applicants to the Global Entry program have not been eligible to interview virtually, but many renewing members have been permitted to conduct remote interviews via Zoom. In the future, changes may be made so that some eligible Trusted Traveler Program applicants can complete enrollment interviews remotely. The final eligibility decision will be made after the interview.
TSA PreCheck’s application process is fairly straightforward. Online applications barely take five minutes to complete, so travelers simply have to wait for their applications to be processed. After that, scheduling an interview is the next step. There are more than 500 TSA enrollment centers. Just like with Global Entry, first time applicants to TSA PreCheck are expected to conduct enrollment interviews in person.
CLEAR’s application process is very quick compared to Global Entry and TSA PreCheck’s. It is common to apply to CLEAR at the airport and begin using the program straight away. Applicants can answer some questions online before heading to the airport to make it an even quicker process, but it is possible to complete an application in one sitting without an appointment or interview.
Selecting a provider with locations within an easily commutable distance is important so that the initial interview and the eligibility decision is not delayed.
How Does Global Entry Cost Compare?
To state it plainly, travelers are going to be paying more for CLEAR. The cutting edge program uses biometric scanners for its security, so members pay for the convenience and speed of CLEAR. This new addition to airport security screening costs $189 for an annual membership, so it is a more costly option. Global Entry sits right in the middle of all three options, with a non-refundable fee of $100. This application fee goes towards five years of membership if applicants are approved. TSA PreCheck is the most economical option of the three and costs $78 (or around $15 a year) for a five year membership.
All things considered, travelers will need to decide which is the best option for their own situation. For those who travel international on a regular basis, Global Entry does have a lot to offer. So, don’t make the mistake of thinking about it the next time you find yourself waiting in line for re-entry into the United States.