Which is better TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?


Which is better TSA PreCheck or Global Entry? If you mostly travel domestically and want access to expedited security screening, TSA PreCheck may make sense for you. If you travel internationally and want access to faster customs screening upon reentry to the U.S., consider Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck, instead.


Does Global Entry work immediately?

If you're approved, at the end of the interview, you'll immediately be enrolled into the program and be given your Known Traveler Number (KTN). Your Global Entry membership card will arrive in the mail anywhere between seven to 10 business days after approval and you have 30 days to activate your card.


Can you do a remote interview for Global Entry?

Can I interview for Global Entry remotely? Yes, you may interview with CBP for your Global Entry application as long as you are renewing your membership and not applying for the first time. The remote interviews take place over Zoom.


Which airports have Global Entry interviews?

Airports with Global Entry
  • Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)*
  • Anchorage - Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC)
  • Aruba - Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)*
  • Austin - Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)


How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

Most applicants receive approval notification in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. Considering this, applicants are encouraged to renew at least 60 days prior to expiry.


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.


Does Global Entry skip TSA lines?

Apply for Global Entry
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.


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.


Is there a better program than Global Entry?

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.


How much does it cost to add Global Entry to TSA PreCheck?

A $100 one-time fee is required with your Global Entry application and must be paid at time of application submission through the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) system. You can pay by credit card or through an electronic bank transfer.


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.


What are the perks of Global Entry?

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.