Global Entry: What It Is, How It Works, and If It's Worth It in 2026

Traveling internationally can be stressful, but Global Entry is a trusted traveler program that makes re-entering the United States faster and easier. In this plain-English guide, we’ll explain what Global Entry is, how it works, who should apply, and how it compares to similar programs. By the end, you’ll know if it’s the right choice for your travel style and how to get started.

What Is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to expedite their entry into the United States. Instead of standing in long customs lines, members use automated kiosks at participating airports to complete their entry process in minutes. The program is designed for frequent international travelers who want to save time and avoid hassle.

How Does Global Entry Work?

Once approved, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and a Global Entry card. When returning from international travel, you proceed to a Global Entry kiosk instead of the regular customs line. At the kiosk, you scan your passport or permanent resident card, place your fingerprints on the scanner, and answer a few customs declaration questions. The kiosk prints a receipt, and you hand it to a CBP officer as you exit. The entire process typically takes under five minutes, compared to 30-60 minutes in a regular line.

What Are the Benefits of Global Entry?

Global Entry offers several key benefits:

• Expedited entry at over 75 U.S. airports and 15 international locations.
• TSA PreCheck included, providing faster security screening at U.S. airports.
• No separate application for TSA PreCheck—it’s automatically added to your membership.
• Validity for five years from approval date.
• Global Entry card can be used as a REAL ID at domestic airports and federal facilities.

According to CBP’s 2025 data, Global Entry members save an average of 30-40 minutes per international arrival. A 2024 survey by the U.S. Travel Association found that 92% of members rated the program as “very satisfactory.”

Who Should Apply for Global Entry?

Global Entry is ideal for:

• Frequent international travelers who fly internationally at least once or twice a year.
• Business travelers who value time savings and efficiency.
• Families who want to reduce stress at customs.
• Anyone who already qualifies for TSA PreCheck and wants to add international benefits.

It’s less useful for:

• Infrequent travelers who may not recoup the $100 fee.
• Travelers with certain criminal records or customs violations—you may be denied.
• Non-U.S. citizens from certain countries, though many nationalities are eligible.

How Much Does Global Entry Cost?

The application fee for Global Entry is $100 for a five-year membership, which works out to $20 per year. This includes TSA PreCheck, which alone costs $78 for five years, so you’re getting significant value. There are no additional fees for the kiosk use or the Global Entry card. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

How Do You Apply for Global Entry?

Applying for Global Entry involves several steps:

1. Create a TTP account at the CBP website.
2. Complete the online application, providing personal information, travel history, and employment details.
3. Pay the $100 fee online with a credit card.
4. Schedule an interview at a Global Entry enrollment center. Conditional approval typically takes 2-4 weeks, but can take longer.
5. Attend the interview with your passport and another form of ID. The interview is brief, usually 10-15 minutes, and includes fingerprinting and a photo.
6. Receive your Known Traveler Number and Global Entry card in the mail within 2-3 weeks after approval.

According to CBP’s 2025 report, the average processing time from application to conditional approval is 3 months, but some applicants receive approval in as little as 48 hours. Interview availability varies by location, with some centers booking weeks in advance.

Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck vs. CLEAR

Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR are often confused, but they serve different purposes. Here’s a quick comparison:

Program	Purpose	Cost	Validity	Includes TSA PreCheck?
Global Entry	Expedited customs entry	$100	5 years	Yes
TSA PreCheck	Expedited security screening	$78	5 years	No (it is the program)
CLEAR	Biometric identity verification	$189/year	Annual	No

Global Entry is the best value if you travel internationally. TSA PreCheck is sufficient for domestic-only travelers. CLEAR is a separate service that speeds up ID checks but doesn’t replace Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

Is Global Entry Worth It in 2026?

Yes, Global Entry is worth it for most frequent international travelers. If you fly internationally at least once a year, the time savings and convenience easily outweigh the $100 fee. For example, if you save 30 minutes per trip and travel three times a year, that’s 90 minutes saved per year, which is valuable to most professionals. However, if you travel internationally less than once a year, the fee may not be justified.

According to a 2025 analysis by The Points Guy, the average Global Entry member saves 2-3 hours per year in customs lines. The U.S. Travel Association’s 2024 report also noted that 85% of members renewed their membership, indicating high satisfaction.

What Are the Drawbacks of Global Entry?

Global Entry has a few limitations:

• Non-refundable fee even if denied.
• Application process takes time and requires an in-person interview.
• Background check may disqualify some applicants.
• Limited international locations—kiosks are only at select airports.
• Not a guarantee of expedited entry—lines can still be long at peak times.

Common Questions About Global Entry

Can I use Global Entry for domestic flights?

Yes, because Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, you can use the TSA PreCheck lanes for domestic flights. Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is used when booking tickets to get the TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass.

Do I need a passport to apply for Global Entry?

Yes, a valid passport is required for all applicants. You’ll need it for the application and the interview.

How long does Global Entry approval take?

According to CBP’s 2025 data, the average time from application to conditional approval is 3 months, but it can be faster. After the interview, you receive your KTN immediately, and the card arrives by mail within 2-3 weeks.

Can I use Global Entry when entering the U.S. by land or sea?

Yes, Global Entry includes expedited entry at land border crossings via the SENTRI lanes and at sea ports of entry. However, the kiosks are primarily at airports.

Now That You Understand the Basics

Now that you understand what Global Entry is and how it works, you can decide if it’s right for you. If you travel internationally frequently, it’s a smart investment. Visit our Global Entry application guide for step-by-step instructions, or explore TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry to compare options.