Does Global Entry Include TSA PreCheck? Understanding the Difference Between Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck
In the age of rapid globalization, frequent travel—whether for leisure, business, or other purposes—has become an integral part of many individuals’ lives. Yet, with the hustle and bustle of modern airports, coupled with heightened security measures, the once-glamorous concept of air travel often feels more like a chore. Enter Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, two programs heralded as game-changers in the world of frequent flying.
Designed to streamline and simplify the airport experience, these programs offer expedited processes that aim to reduce wait times, eliminate unnecessary hassle, and bring back a semblance of pleasure to our journeys. But what exactly are these programs? How do they differ, and perhaps more importantly, how are they interconnected? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey of discovery, delving deep into the nuances of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, helping you make an informed decision on which is best suited to your travel needs.
Global Entry, at its core, is an initiative by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) designed to expedite the customs and immigration process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon their return to the United States. But it’s much more than just a quick pass through customs; it’s a testament to the integration of technology and security, aimed at creating a seamless travel experience.
The main allure of Global Entry lies in its promise of swift re-entry into the U.S. after international travels. Members can bypass the traditional customs lines, instead heading straight to dedicated Global Entry kiosks. These kiosks employ biometric verification—using fingerprints and a passport scan—to validate travelers, post which a transaction receipt is generated, and the traveler is good to go. This process vastly reduces the time spent waiting in long customs lines, particularly beneficial after a tiring international flight.
TSA PreCheck is like music to the ears of domestic travelers within the U.S., promising a breezier airport experience even before one takes to the skies. A program initiated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), TSA PreCheck is dedicated to expediting the security screening process at airports, a process often fraught with lengthy queues and cumbersome procedures.
The most evident advantage of being a TSA PreCheck member is the access to special, typically shorter, security lanes designated solely for PreCheck passengers. These lanes operate with the understanding that those passing through have already been vetted, thus removing some of the common security procedures that tend to slow things down. Imagine not having to remove your shoes, belt, or light jacket. Envision leaving your laptop snug inside its bag and not having to separate your liquids. That’s the TSA PreCheck experience in a nutshell.
Global Entry Overview
1. Introduction to Global Entry: Global Entry, an initiative of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection service, was designed to streamline the entry process for pre-approved travelers arriving in the United States. Through automatic kiosks at specific airports and through SENTRI and NEXUS lanes at land and sea borders, low-risk travelers can experience expedited clearance. As of May 4, 2018, the program was operational at 53 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance locations. Remarkably, by April 2018, the program had amassed over five million participants, with about 50,000 new applications being submitted monthly.
2. Tracing the History: Before Global Entry came into existence, the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service had INSPASS during the 1990s and early 2000s. This program, which functioned at JFK and Newark Airports, was the precursor to Global Entry, identifying travelers using their handprints. However, it was discontinued in 2002 when INS merged with U.S. Customs to form the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
3. Expansion and Collaboration: The introduction of Global Entry in 2008 began with limited deployment at a few airports like New York-JFK, Washington-Dulles, and Houston-Intercontinental. However, positive reception led to its expansion to major hubs like Los Angeles International and Miami International Airport. In an international collaborative step, by 2009, Global Entry membership was opened to Dutch citizens part of the Privium program. Concurrently, Global Entry members could also avail benefits of the Privium program in the Netherlands.
4. Controversies and Challenges: 2020 was a year of turbulence for Global Entry in New York. The state’s Green Light Law, which restricted sharing DMV criminal records with federal agencies without a court order, led to a ban on New York state residents from applying for or renewing their Global Entry memberships. This move affected numerous residents and drew significant backlash, with lawsuits being filed against the federal decision. The tension ended with New York agreeing to grant federal agencies limited access to the required data, after which the ban was lifted.
5. Enrollment and Membership Dynamics: Joining the Global Entry program isn’t just about filling an application. Applicants undergo thorough interviews and background checks, sometimes waiting months for an appointment. With a non-refundable fee of $100, the program even charges infants and children, although certain credit cards do offer reimbursements. Once approved, the Known Traveler ID is provided, which can be used for TSA PreCheck. The membership, valid for five years, comes with an ID card that, while not mandatory for customs, serves other purposes.
6. The Entry Procedure and Practicality: The utility of Global Entry is realized at the entry points. At airports, users present their machine-readable passport or permanent residency card, provide fingerprints, and complete a computerized customs declaration. The system then either clears them to proceed or directs them for further inspection. For those entering by land and sea, an RFID-enabled Global Entry membership card facilitates their entry. This card, along with NEXUS lanes for Canada and SENTRI lanes for Mexico, speeds up the process, embodying the program’s objective of efficiency and convenience.
TSA PreCheck: An Overview
TSA PreCheck, often branded as TSA Pre✓, is an initiative spearheaded by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to facilitate expedited screening for certain travelers at airports. Launched in December 2013, the program is available to select members of specific frequent flyer initiatives, individuals enrolled in the Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and Free and Secure Trade programs, as well as members of the US military and attendees of US service academies. Aimed primarily at domestic travelers, the program does extend to some international itineraries. As of March 2019, TSA PreCheck had been implemented in over 300 airports.
To become a TSA PreCheck member, travelers must undergo a background check, provide fingerprints, and pay a fee of $78. Once approved, they are given a Known Traveler Number. Unlike other trusted traveler programs like Global Entry or NEXUS, TSA does not issue a physical ID card for PreCheck members. Instead, eligibility for expedited screening is indicated on a traveler’s boarding pass, with notations such as “TSAPRECHK”, “TSA PRE”, or “TSA Pre✓®”, though the exact notation can vary based on the airline and the type of boarding pass.
However, the program has not been without its challenges. There have been grievances regarding perceptions of inequality and exacerbated wait times at security checkpoints. Despite its name, TSA has reiterated that PreCheck doesn’t guarantee expedited screening every time. Members can be randomly excluded from the expedited process, and violations of federal transportation security rules can lead to disqualification or suspension from the program. For those concerned about the application fee, several credit card companies and loyalty programs offer to cover the costs for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
In 2023, the TSA marked two significant achievements for the PreCheck program. Firstly, the number of active TSA PreCheck members crossed the 15 million mark, setting a new record. Secondly, on February 21, 2023, the program witnessed an unprecedented surge in applications, with more than 19,200 people applying in a single day—another record for the program.
By May 2023, the TSA introduced a notable amendment to the program. In response to the surge in travel demand, it was announced that teenagers, specifically those between the ages of 13 and 17, would be eligible to use the PreCheck security lines if accompanied by a parent or guardian who has PreCheck privileges on their reservation. This change meant a broader range of families could benefit from expedited security, as children aged 12 and under had already been permitted to accompany PreCheck-verified guardians through these lines.
The Overlap: Global Entry’s Hidden Perk
Travelers in today’s world are all too familiar with the hassles of airport security checks and customs declarations when flying internationally. It’s a necessary process to ensure safety, but that doesn’t make it any less tedious. Fortunately, for frequent international travelers, there exists the Global Entry program – a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. However, what many may not be aware of is the hidden perk associated with Global Entry: inclusion in the TSA PreCheck program.
TSA PreCheck, as discussed previously, is a separate program that facilitates quicker security screenings at airports for domestic flights. While these two programs might seem unrelated at first glance, the surprising overlap is that enrollment in Global Entry often grants members access to TSA PreCheck benefits without any additional application or cost. This dual benefit is a boon for international travelers who also frequently travel domestically within the U.S.
Let’s say, for instance, you’re a businessperson who travels internationally for meetings and conferences but also frequently jets between U.S. cities. With Global Entry, not only can you breeze through customs upon your return to the U.S. from abroad, but you can also enjoy expedited security checks for your domestic flights, all under one membership fee. It’s a win-win situation, maximizing both convenience and cost-effectiveness.
The “overlap” thus effectively doubles the value of the Global Entry program. By paying for one service, travelers are receiving the benefits of two. This hidden perk remains under-publicized, meaning that many Global Entry members might not be utilizing the TSA PreCheck benefits they’re entitled to.
Of course, it’s essential to remember that while Global Entry almost always includes TSA PreCheck, the reverse isn’t necessarily true. Those who sign up exclusively for TSA PreCheck won’t receive Global Entry benefits. This distinction makes Global Entry a far more attractive option for those who find themselves navigating both international and domestic terminals regularly.
Contrasting the Two: Key Differences
Purpose and Scope:
-
- Global Entry: Primarily designed to expedite the customs and immigration process for pre-approved travelers entering the U.S. from international destinations. While its benefits are largely experienced at international terminals, it encompasses benefits at both land and sea borders as well.
- TSA PreCheck: Focuses solely on speeding up the security screening process at domestic terminals of U.S. airports. Its benefits are most tangible before boarding flights, reducing the hassle of removing shoes, laptops, liquids, and belts.
Eligibility and Application Process:
-
- Global Entry: Requires a rigorous background check, an in-person interview at a designated enrollment center, fingerprinting, and payment of a $100 fee.
- TSA PreCheck: While it also necessitates a background check and fingerprinting, its application process is typically perceived as less stringent. The fee is $78, and there’s no in-person interview like with Global Entry.
Coverage and Locations:
-
- Global Entry: Available at 53 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance locations internationally, as of May 2018. Also offers benefits at SENTRI and NEXUS lanes at land and sea borders.
- TSA PreCheck: As of March 2019, it is available at over 300 U.S. airports. It doesn’t offer international preclearance or land/sea border benefits.
Cost and Validity:
-
- Global Entry: Costs $100 for a 5-year membership.
- TSA PreCheck: Costs $78 for a 5-year membership.
Additional Perks:
-
- Global Entry: Members automatically get TSA PreCheck benefits. This means they not only enjoy expedited customs processing but also quicker security screening for domestic flights.
- TSA PreCheck: While it offers faster security screening, it doesn’t provide any benefits for customs or immigration upon international returns.
Target Audience:
-
- Global Entry: Best suited for frequent international travelers. If you’re often traveling abroad and wish to save time upon your return, this program offers immense value.
- TSA PreCheck: Ideal for those who primarily fly domestically within the U.S. It’s especially beneficial for business travelers and others who fly several times a year and value the time saved during security checks.
How Long is Global Entry Good For? How Long Does it Take?
Global Entry is valid for 5 years from the date of approval. Before its expiration, members can apply for renewal. It’s advisable to start the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date to ensure uninterrupted benefits.
The duration it takes to get approved for Global Entry varies for each individual and can be influenced by multiple factors. Here’s a general timeline of the Global Entry application process:
- Online Application: The first step involves filling out an online application on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the applicant.
- Wait for Conditional Approval: After submitting the online application, it generally takes a few days to a few weeks for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to review the application and provide conditional approval. However, in some cases, this can take several months, especially during periods of high application volume or due to specific details in an individual’s application.
- Schedule an Interview: Once you receive conditional approval, you can schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. The availability of interview slots varies by location. Some centers might have openings within a week, while others might be booked for several months.
- Interview: The interview itself typically lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. During the interview, a CBP officer will ask questions to verify the applicant’s information, take fingerprints, and take a photo.
- Final Approval: After the interview, final approval is generally granted within a few days, but it can sometimes be immediate or take longer, depending on the specifics of the application.
- Receipt of Global Entry Card: If you’re approved, and if you’re a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident, you’ll receive a Global Entry card in the mail. This can take a few weeks to arrive. However, note that for air travel, the card is not necessary; your passport and the known traveler number (provided upon approval) are what you’ll primarily use. The card is beneficial for land crossings, like those between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico.
In total, from application to receiving the Global Entry card, the process can take anywhere from a month to several months. However, this timeframe can vary widely based on individual circumstances and the specific enrollment center’s volume.
Summary:
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are both programs designed to expedite the travel process for pre-approved travelers, but they serve different primary functions.
- Global Entry is a program primarily aimed at expediting the customs and immigration process for travelers when they return to the United States from international trips. Those approved for Global Entry can use automated kiosks at certain U.S. airports to quickly clear immigration and customs, bypassing the regular lines. As a bonus, Global Entry membership also grants travelers TSA PreCheck eligibility, allowing them to go through expedited airport security screening for both domestic and international flights departing from U.S. airports.
- TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, focuses solely on the airport security screening process. Members can use designated TSA PreCheck lanes at participating U.S. airports, where they often don’t need to remove shoes, light outerwear, belts, or small liquids from their carry-ons. This makes the security process faster and less cumbersome. However, having TSA PreCheck does not give travelers the benefits of Global Entry for expedited customs and immigration clearance.
While Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, the reverse is not true. Those who travel internationally frequently might find it beneficial to apply for Global Entry, effectively getting two services for the price of one. On the other hand, travelers who primarily fly within the U.S. might opt for just TSA PreCheck.
Does Global Entry Include TSA PreCheck? Understanding the Difference Between Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck
In the age of rapid globalization, frequent travel—whether for leisure, business, or other purposes—has become an integral part of many individuals’ lives. Yet, with the hustle and bustle of modern airports, coupled with heightened security measures, the once-glamorous concept of air travel often feels more like a chore. Enter Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, two programs heralded as game-changers in the world of frequent flying.
Designed to streamline and simplify the airport experience, these programs offer expedited processes that aim to reduce wait times, eliminate unnecessary hassle, and bring back a semblance of pleasure to our journeys. But what exactly are these programs? How do they differ, and perhaps more importantly, how are they interconnected? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey of discovery, delving deep into the nuances of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, helping you make an informed decision on which is best suited to your travel needs.
Global Entry, at its core, is an initiative by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) designed to expedite the customs and immigration process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon their return to the United States. But it’s much more than just a quick pass through customs; it’s a testament to the integration of technology and security, aimed at creating a seamless travel experience.
The main allure of Global Entry lies in its promise of swift re-entry into the U.S. after international travels. Members can bypass the traditional customs lines, instead heading straight to dedicated Global Entry kiosks. These kiosks employ biometric verification—using fingerprints and a passport scan—to validate travelers, post which a transaction receipt is generated, and the traveler is good to go. This process vastly reduces the time spent waiting in long customs lines, particularly beneficial after a tiring international flight.
TSA PreCheck is like music to the ears of domestic travelers within the U.S., promising a breezier airport experience even before one takes to the skies. A program initiated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), TSA PreCheck is dedicated to expediting the security screening process at airports, a process often fraught with lengthy queues and cumbersome procedures.
The most evident advantage of being a TSA PreCheck member is the access to special, typically shorter, security lanes designated solely for PreCheck passengers. These lanes operate with the understanding that those passing through have already been vetted, thus removing some of the common security procedures that tend to slow things down. Imagine not having to remove your shoes, belt, or light jacket. Envision leaving your laptop snug inside its bag and not having to separate your liquids. That’s the TSA PreCheck experience in a nutshell.
Global Entry Overview
1. Introduction to Global Entry: Global Entry, an initiative of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection service, was designed to streamline the entry process for pre-approved travelers arriving in the United States. Through automatic kiosks at specific airports and through SENTRI and NEXUS lanes at land and sea borders, low-risk travelers can experience expedited clearance. As of May 4, 2018, the program was operational at 53 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance locations. Remarkably, by April 2018, the program had amassed over five million participants, with about 50,000 new applications being submitted monthly.
2. Tracing the History: Before Global Entry came into existence, the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service had INSPASS during the 1990s and early 2000s. This program, which functioned at JFK and Newark Airports, was the precursor to Global Entry, identifying travelers using their handprints. However, it was discontinued in 2002 when INS merged with U.S. Customs to form the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
3. Expansion and Collaboration: The introduction of Global Entry in 2008 began with limited deployment at a few airports like New York-JFK, Washington-Dulles, and Houston-Intercontinental. However, positive reception led to its expansion to major hubs like Los Angeles International and Miami International Airport. In an international collaborative step, by 2009, Global Entry membership was opened to Dutch citizens part of the Privium program. Concurrently, Global Entry members could also avail benefits of the Privium program in the Netherlands.
4. Controversies and Challenges: 2020 was a year of turbulence for Global Entry in New York. The state’s Green Light Law, which restricted sharing DMV criminal records with federal agencies without a court order, led to a ban on New York state residents from applying for or renewing their Global Entry memberships. This move affected numerous residents and drew significant backlash, with lawsuits being filed against the federal decision. The tension ended with New York agreeing to grant federal agencies limited access to the required data, after which the ban was lifted.
5. Enrollment and Membership Dynamics: Joining the Global Entry program isn’t just about filling an application. Applicants undergo thorough interviews and background checks, sometimes waiting months for an appointment. With a non-refundable fee of $100, the program even charges infants and children, although certain credit cards do offer reimbursements. Once approved, the Known Traveler ID is provided, which can be used for TSA PreCheck. The membership, valid for five years, comes with an ID card that, while not mandatory for customs, serves other purposes.
6. The Entry Procedure and Practicality: The utility of Global Entry is realized at the entry points. At airports, users present their machine-readable passport or permanent residency card, provide fingerprints, and complete a computerized customs declaration. The system then either clears them to proceed or directs them for further inspection. For those entering by land and sea, an RFID-enabled Global Entry membership card facilitates their entry. This card, along with NEXUS lanes for Canada and SENTRI lanes for Mexico, speeds up the process, embodying the program’s objective of efficiency and convenience.
TSA PreCheck: An Overview
TSA PreCheck, often branded as TSA Pre✓, is an initiative spearheaded by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to facilitate expedited screening for certain travelers at airports. Launched in December 2013, the program is available to select members of specific frequent flyer initiatives, individuals enrolled in the Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and Free and Secure Trade programs, as well as members of the US military and attendees of US service academies. Aimed primarily at domestic travelers, the program does extend to some international itineraries. As of March 2019, TSA PreCheck had been implemented in over 300 airports.
To become a TSA PreCheck member, travelers must undergo a background check, provide fingerprints, and pay a fee of $78. Once approved, they are given a Known Traveler Number. Unlike other trusted traveler programs like Global Entry or NEXUS, TSA does not issue a physical ID card for PreCheck members. Instead, eligibility for expedited screening is indicated on a traveler’s boarding pass, with notations such as “TSAPRECHK”, “TSA PRE”, or “TSA Pre✓®”, though the exact notation can vary based on the airline and the type of boarding pass.
However, the program has not been without its challenges. There have been grievances regarding perceptions of inequality and exacerbated wait times at security checkpoints. Despite its name, TSA has reiterated that PreCheck doesn’t guarantee expedited screening every time. Members can be randomly excluded from the expedited process, and violations of federal transportation security rules can lead to disqualification or suspension from the program. For those concerned about the application fee, several credit card companies and loyalty programs offer to cover the costs for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
In 2023, the TSA marked two significant achievements for the PreCheck program. Firstly, the number of active TSA PreCheck members crossed the 15 million mark, setting a new record. Secondly, on February 21, 2023, the program witnessed an unprecedented surge in applications, with more than 19,200 people applying in a single day—another record for the program.
By May 2023, the TSA introduced a notable amendment to the program. In response to the surge in travel demand, it was announced that teenagers, specifically those between the ages of 13 and 17, would be eligible to use the PreCheck security lines if accompanied by a parent or guardian who has PreCheck privileges on their reservation. This change meant a broader range of families could benefit from expedited security, as children aged 12 and under had already been permitted to accompany PreCheck-verified guardians through these lines.
The Overlap: Global Entry’s Hidden Perk
Travelers in today’s world are all too familiar with the hassles of airport security checks and customs declarations when flying internationally. It’s a necessary process to ensure safety, but that doesn’t make it any less tedious. Fortunately, for frequent international travelers, there exists the Global Entry program – a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. However, what many may not be aware of is the hidden perk associated with Global Entry: inclusion in the TSA PreCheck program.
TSA PreCheck, as discussed previously, is a separate program that facilitates quicker security screenings at airports for domestic flights. While these two programs might seem unrelated at first glance, the surprising overlap is that enrollment in Global Entry often grants members access to TSA PreCheck benefits without any additional application or cost. This dual benefit is a boon for international travelers who also frequently travel domestically within the U.S.
Let’s say, for instance, you’re a businessperson who travels internationally for meetings and conferences but also frequently jets between U.S. cities. With Global Entry, not only can you breeze through customs upon your return to the U.S. from abroad, but you can also enjoy expedited security checks for your domestic flights, all under one membership fee. It’s a win-win situation, maximizing both convenience and cost-effectiveness.
The “overlap” thus effectively doubles the value of the Global Entry program. By paying for one service, travelers are receiving the benefits of two. This hidden perk remains under-publicized, meaning that many Global Entry members might not be utilizing the TSA PreCheck benefits they’re entitled to.
Of course, it’s essential to remember that while Global Entry almost always includes TSA PreCheck, the reverse isn’t necessarily true. Those who sign up exclusively for TSA PreCheck won’t receive Global Entry benefits. This distinction makes Global Entry a far more attractive option for those who find themselves navigating both international and domestic terminals regularly.
Contrasting the Two: Key Differences
Purpose and Scope:
-
- Global Entry: Primarily designed to expedite the customs and immigration process for pre-approved travelers entering the U.S. from international destinations. While its benefits are largely experienced at international terminals, it encompasses benefits at both land and sea borders as well.
- TSA PreCheck: Focuses solely on speeding up the security screening process at domestic terminals of U.S. airports. Its benefits are most tangible before boarding flights, reducing the hassle of removing shoes, laptops, liquids, and belts.
Eligibility and Application Process:
-
- Global Entry: Requires a rigorous background check, an in-person interview at a designated enrollment center, fingerprinting, and payment of a $100 fee.
- TSA PreCheck: While it also necessitates a background check and fingerprinting, its application process is typically perceived as less stringent. The fee is $78, and there’s no in-person interview like with Global Entry.
Coverage and Locations:
-
- Global Entry: Available at 53 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance locations internationally, as of May 2018. Also offers benefits at SENTRI and NEXUS lanes at land and sea borders.
- TSA PreCheck: As of March 2019, it is available at over 300 U.S. airports. It doesn’t offer international preclearance or land/sea border benefits.
Cost and Validity:
-
- Global Entry: Costs $100 for a 5-year membership.
- TSA PreCheck: Costs $78 for a 5-year membership.
Additional Perks:
-
- Global Entry: Members automatically get TSA PreCheck benefits. This means they not only enjoy expedited customs processing but also quicker security screening for domestic flights.
- TSA PreCheck: While it offers faster security screening, it doesn’t provide any benefits for customs or immigration upon international returns.
Target Audience:
-
- Global Entry: Best suited for frequent international travelers. If you’re often traveling abroad and wish to save time upon your return, this program offers immense value.
- TSA PreCheck: Ideal for those who primarily fly domestically within the U.S. It’s especially beneficial for business travelers and others who fly several times a year and value the time saved during security checks.
How Long is Global Entry Good For? How Long Does it Take?
Global Entry is valid for 5 years from the date of approval. Before its expiration, members can apply for renewal. It’s advisable to start the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date to ensure uninterrupted benefits.
The duration it takes to get approved for Global Entry varies for each individual and can be influenced by multiple factors. Here’s a general timeline of the Global Entry application process:
- Online Application: The first step involves filling out an online application on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the applicant.
- Wait for Conditional Approval: After submitting the online application, it generally takes a few days to a few weeks for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to review the application and provide conditional approval. However, in some cases, this can take several months, especially during periods of high application volume or due to specific details in an individual’s application.
- Schedule an Interview: Once you receive conditional approval, you can schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. The availability of interview slots varies by location. Some centers might have openings within a week, while others might be booked for several months.
- Interview: The interview itself typically lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. During the interview, a CBP officer will ask questions to verify the applicant’s information, take fingerprints, and take a photo.
- Final Approval: After the interview, final approval is generally granted within a few days, but it can sometimes be immediate or take longer, depending on the specifics of the application.
- Receipt of Global Entry Card: If you’re approved, and if you’re a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident, you’ll receive a Global Entry card in the mail. This can take a few weeks to arrive. However, note that for air travel, the card is not necessary; your passport and the known traveler number (provided upon approval) are what you’ll primarily use. The card is beneficial for land crossings, like those between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico.
In total, from application to receiving the Global Entry card, the process can take anywhere from a month to several months. However, this timeframe can vary widely based on individual circumstances and the specific enrollment center’s volume.
Summary:
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are both programs designed to expedite the travel process for pre-approved travelers, but they serve different primary functions.
- Global Entry is a program primarily aimed at expediting the customs and immigration process for travelers when they return to the United States from international trips. Those approved for Global Entry can use automated kiosks at certain U.S. airports to quickly clear immigration and customs, bypassing the regular lines. As a bonus, Global Entry membership also grants travelers TSA PreCheck eligibility, allowing them to go through expedited airport security screening for both domestic and international flights departing from U.S. airports.
- TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, focuses solely on the airport security screening process. Members can use designated TSA PreCheck lanes at participating U.S. airports, where they often don’t need to remove shoes, light outerwear, belts, or small liquids from their carry-ons. This makes the security process faster and less cumbersome. However, having TSA PreCheck does not give travelers the benefits of Global Entry for expedited customs and immigration clearance.
While Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, the reverse is not true. Those who travel internationally frequently might find it beneficial to apply for Global Entry, effectively getting two services for the price of one. On the other hand, travelers who primarily fly within the U.S. might opt for just TSA PreCheck.
