The single biggest time-saver in travel isn't a better seat or a faster route. It's Global Entry. Skip the customs line when returning to the U.S. from international flights. Walk up to a kiosk, scan your fingerprints, and you're through in under two minutes while everyone else waits 30-60 minutes. And since Global Entry automatically includes TSA PreCheck, you get expedited security screening on every domestic flight too.
The program costs $120 for a five-year membership. But if you have the right credit card, you pay the fee upfront and receive an automatic statement credit within one to two billing cycles. The net cost: zero.
Credit Cards That Reimburse Global Entry Fees
| Card | Credit Amount |
|---|---|
|
Up to $120 every 4 years
|
$120 |
|
Up to $100 every 4 years
|
$100 |
|
Up to $120 every 4 years
|
$120 |
|
Up to $120 every 4 years
|
$120 |
|
Up to $120 every 4 years
|
$120 |
This isn't the full list. Dozens of cards offer this benefit, including several airline co-branded cards from Delta, United, and American. The key detail: most cards reimburse one fee per account every four years. Since Global Entry lasts five years, you'll need to time your renewal with an active credit card benefit.
Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which Should You Get
Always choose Global Entry over TSA PreCheck if you have the option. Global Entry costs $120 versus $85 for TSA PreCheck, but Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck automatically. You get both expedited customs re-entry and faster domestic security for the same credit card reimbursement.
TSA PreCheck only makes sense if you never travel internationally and your credit card only reimburses up to $85. For everyone else, Global Entry is strictly the better value.
How to Apply for Global Entry with Your Credit Card
Create a Trusted Traveler Programs account
Go to ttp.cbp.dhs.gov and create an account. Fill out the application with your personal information, travel history, and employment details.
Pay the $120 fee with your eligible card
Use the credit card that offers the Global Entry reimbursement. The statement credit will appear automatically within one to two billing cycles.
Wait for conditional approval
Most applications receive conditional approval within a few days to a couple of weeks. You'll then need to schedule an in-person interview.
Complete your interview
Interviews take place at enrollment centers in major airports and some land border crossings. The interview itself is quick, usually 10-15 minutes. You can also complete Enrollment on Arrival after an international flight.
Add your Known Traveler Number to airline reservations
Once approved, add your KTN to your airline loyalty profiles so TSA PreCheck appears automatically on every boarding pass.
If interview wait times are long at your local airport, use "Enrollment on Arrival." after landing from an international flight, you'll see signs directing conditionally approved applicants to complete their interview right at the airport. No separate appointment needed.
Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck. One application, two benefits, zero cost with the right card.
Is Global Entry Worth It Without a Credit Card Reimbursement?
Even at the full $120 price, Global Entry is worth it for anyone who flies more than twice a year. That's $24 per year for five years of expedited security and customs. The time saved on a single international arrival, especially during peak hours at airports like JFK, LAX, or Miami, easily justifies the cost.
But since so many cards reimburse the fee, there's rarely a reason to pay out of pocket. If you don't currently hold an eligible card, the Capital One Venture ($95/year) offers the reimbursement alongside solid travel rewards, and the card's annual fee is effectively reduced to zero after the Global Entry credit in year one.
- Trusted Traveler Programs Apply for Global Entry here
- TSA PreCheck Included with Global Entry
- Amex Platinum Hidden Perks $120 Global Entry credit included
- Chase Trifecta Strategy Sapphire Reserve includes $100 credit
For informational purposes only, not financial or professional advice. Card offers and program terms are subject to change. This site may earn compensation through affiliate links at no cost to you.