Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck: Which Should You Get?
Global Entry ($120 for 5 years) includes TSA PreCheck automatically, plus lets you skip passport control lines on international arrivals using automated kiosks. TSA PreCheck alone is $78 for 5 years. The $42 difference is worth it for anyone who flies internationally — and many credit cards cover the fee entirely.
Bottom line
Get Global Entry if you travel internationally. It costs only $42 more than PreCheck over 5 years, includes everything PreCheck offers, and saves you from 30–60 minute passport control queues when you return to the US. Dozens of credit cards will reimburse the $120 fee as a statement credit.
Global Entry
$120- Includes TSA PreCheck
- Global Entry kiosks at 65+ US airports
- Skip passport control on US re-entry
- Fee reimbursed by many credit cards
TSA PreCheck
$78- TSA PreCheck dedicated lanes
- Keep shoes, laptop, liquids in bag
- 200+ airports, 85+ airlines
- No benefit at passport control
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Global Entry | TSA PreCheck |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $120 for 5 years ($24/year) | $78 for 5 years ($15.60/year) |
| Includes TSA PreCheck? | Yes — automatically included | PreCheck only |
| International arrivals | Dedicated Global Entry kiosks at major US airports | No benefit on arrival |
| Background check | FBI criminal history + CBP interview required | FBI criminal history check + fingerprints |
| Interview required | Yes — in-person appointment at enrollment center | Yes — in-person appointment |
| Processing time | 2–3 months typically | 2–3 months typically |
| US citizens only? | No — lawful permanent residents eligible too | US citizens and lawful permanent residents |
| Best for | Frequent international travelers | Frequent domestic or international travelers |
Credit Cards That Reimburse Global Entry
Many premium travel credit cards offer a statement credit for the $120 Global Entry application fee every 4-5 years:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck?+
Yes. Global Entry automatically includes TSA PreCheck at no extra cost. When you enroll in Global Entry, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that you enter in your airline reservation to access TSA PreCheck lanes.
Should I get Global Entry or just TSA PreCheck?+
If you travel internationally at least once a year, get Global Entry — it costs only $42 more over 5 years and includes PreCheck plus expedited US Customs clearance via kiosk. If you only fly domestically, PreCheck alone at $78 is sufficient.
How much does Global Entry cost?+
Global Entry costs $120 for a 5-year membership ($24/year). Many premium credit cards including the Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X, and Citi Prestige reimburse the $120 application fee as a statement credit.
Can I get Global Entry if I have TSA PreCheck?+
Yes. If you already have TSA PreCheck, you can still apply for Global Entry. When your Global Entry is approved, it supersedes your PreCheck membership and you get both benefits under a single KTN.
What is the difference between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck at the airport?+
On departure: both programs give you access to TSA PreCheck lanes. On arrival from international flights: Global Entry allows you to use automated kiosks to clear US Customs and CBP in minutes, skipping the long passport control lines. PreCheck has no benefit at the international arrivals hall.
Is Global Entry worth it?+
For anyone who travels internationally, almost certainly yes. The extra $42 over 5 years versus PreCheck pays for itself the first time you use a Global Entry kiosk and skip a 45-minute passport control line. Many credit cards reimburse the full $120 fee, making it free.