What is Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck?


What is Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck? 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.


Is Global Entry worth the time?

Whether or not Global Entry is worth it will depend on your personal situation. If all your travel is domestic, Global Entry may not fit your needs. But if you have international travel plans within the next five years, Global Entry can save you a lot of time at the airport.


How long does it take to get conditional approval for Global Entry?

Typically you'll receive a decision on your application within 90 days, but with a lengthy backlog from the pandemic, there is a chance that it could take longer. Once you've received your conditional approval notification, you'll need to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.


What benefits does Global Entry get you?

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


Is Global Entry more difficult than TSA PreCheck?

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.


Can I show my Global Entry card for TSA PreCheck?

No. To receive TSA PreCheck®, you must include your Known Traveler Number (your CBP PASSID for Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI members) in the appropriate field of your airline reservation, and the TSA PreCheck® indicator must be displayed on the boarding pass to access the lanes.


How do you use Global Entry at the airport?

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.


Which is better Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?

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.


Do I need both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

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


Can I just show up at the airport for a Global Entry interview?

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.


Can I upgrade my TSA PreCheck to Global Entry?

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.


Can my wife go through Global Entry with me?

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.


Is there a downside to Global Entry?

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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