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How to Get Global Entry for Free: Unknown Benefits Your Credit Card Offers
- Sam Freidman
- May 14
- 11 min read
Did you know that 99% of TSA PreCheck users wait less than 10 minutes to get through airport security? Surprisingly, this time-saving benefit is just one part of what you get with Global Entry, a program that typically costs $120 for five years.
I've discovered that nearly 50 different credit cards offer to pay for Global Entry as a cardholder perk. This means you can skip standard security lines at over 200 U.S. airports without spending a dime of your own money. Furthermore, Global Entry provides expedited customs screening when returning to the United States from international travel, making it a two-in-one package for frequent travelers.
For international travelers, the value is clear — less time waiting in lines means more time enjoying your destination. The standard application fee might seem steep at first glance, but when credit cards that pay for Global Entry cover this cost entirely, the decision becomes much easier. In fact, many premium travel cards offer up to $120 in statement credit reimbursement for application fees, typically available every four or five years, perfectly aligned with the renewal cycle.
What Is Global Entry and Why It Matters
Global Entry operates as a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program specifically designed for pre-approved, low-risk travelers returning to the United States. Unlike regular entry procedures, this trusted traveler program allows members to bypass traditional customs lines through specialized processing technology at select airports.
Faster re-entry into the U.S.
The primary advantage of Global Entry lies in its expedited clearance system. Upon arrival in the United States, members proceed directly to dedicated Global Entry kiosks rather than waiting in standard customs lines. At these kiosks, travelers scan their passports or permanent resident cards, verify their fingerprints, and complete a digital customs declaration. The system instantly processes this information, eliminating the need to fill out the traditional blue-and-white paper customs forms distributed on international flights.
The time savings are substantial. While regular customs lines can stretch for lengthy periods, especially at busy international airports, Global Entry members typically experience minimal wait times. Additionally, some airports now offer touchless kiosks that use biometric data to scan your face for instant approval, further streamlining the process.
Includes TSA PreCheck benefits
A significant yet often overlooked aspect of Global Entry is that membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck eligibility. This means members receive expedited screening at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints when departing from over 200 U.S. airports.
The TSA PreCheck component offers valuable time-saving advantages. Members generally access dedicated security lanes and enjoy streamlined procedures – keeping shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, while laptops and compliant liquids can remain in carry-on bags. According to official TSA data, approximately 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes to clear security checkpoints.
Ideal for international travelers
For frequent international travelers, Global Entry presents an especially compelling value proposition. The program delivers benefits beyond just U.S. re-entry. U.S. citizens enrolled in Global Entry may access expedited entry procedures in several partner countries.
Notably, Global Entry members can use the Smartgate system when entering Australia or New Zealand without additional registration. Moreover, members qualify to apply for expedited entry programs in various countries including the Dutch Privium program, Korean SES program, Panama's Global Pass, Taiwan's e-Gate, Germany's EasyPASS, and Mexico's Viajero Confiable program.
The Global Entry Mobile App represents another convenience, enabling members to validate their arrival to the U.S. on iOS or Android devices before entering the Federal Inspection Services area. This pre-validation further reduces processing time.
Despite these advantages, it's worth noting that Global Entry members may still occasionally undergo random examinations by CBP officers. The program aims to expedite the process for pre-approved travelers while maintaining security protocols, so while the experience is typically much faster, it doesn't guarantee exemption from all customs procedures.
How Much Does Global Entry Cost Without a Credit Card
Understanding the actual cost of Global Entry membership helps determine whether pursuing a credit card benefit makes financial sense. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently updated their fee structure after more than 15 years without changes.
Standard application fee and renewal
The regular cost for Global Entry is now $120 for a five-year membership. This represents a recent increase from the previous $100 fee, with the new pricing officially taking effect on October 1, 2024. For perspective, this breaks down to just $24 per year of membership - certainly reasonable considering the time savings for frequent international travelers.
When your membership approaches expiration, you become eligible to renew one year prior to your program's end date. Renewal costs match the initial application fee at $120. Fortunately, if you submit your renewal application before your current membership expires, you can continue using all Global Entry benefits for up to 24 months beyond your official expiration date. This provides a substantial grace period during the renewal process.
Additional costs for families
For families, the Global Entry cost structure has recently become much more affordable. Beginning October 1, 2024, applicants under the age of 18 will be completely exempt from the application fee when a parent or legal guardian is already a Global Entry member or is applying simultaneously. Previously, families needed to pay the full application fee for each family member, including children.
This policy change represents substantial savings for families who travel internationally. For instance, a family of four with two children under 18 would previously have paid $480 in application fees ($120 × 4), whereas now they would only pay $240 ($120 × 2). The official CBP guidance confirms that "children under the age of 18 must also apply and, if eligible, are admitted to the program free of charge".
It's worth noting that this fee exemption only applies to applications submitted on or after October 1, 2024. If you applied for your children before this date, unfortunately, CBP will not retroactively refund the difference.
Non-refundable policy
A critical point to understand about Global Entry fees is their non-refundable nature. The $120 application processing fee is non-refundable under all circumstances - even if your application is ultimately denied. This makes the application decision somewhat of a commitment, as you won't recover the fee if issues arise during the approval process.
When applying, you must pay the fee at the time of application submission through the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) system. The system accepts payment via credit card or electronic bank transfer. Since the fee is non-refundable, it's particularly important to ensure all your application details are accurate - any discrepancies or mistakes could lead to delays or denial without the possibility of getting your money back.
Consequently, travelers should carefully consider their eligibility before applying. Those with any concerns about approval might find the credit card reimbursement option particularly valuable, as it effectively removes the financial risk of application denial.
Which Credit Cards Pay for Global Entry
Several premium credit cards offer Global Entry application fee credits as a standard benefit, effectively making this expedited entry program completely free for cardholders. Each card provides this benefit with slight variations in terms of credit amount and renewal frequency.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a statement credit of up to $120 every four years as reimbursement for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fees. To take advantage of this benefit, simply pay the application fee with your Sapphire Reserve card. After the charge posts to your account, a statement credit will automatically be applied, typically within two billing cycles. Notably, while Global Entry membership lasts five years, the credit renews after just four years, allowing you to renew before your membership actually expires.
Capital One Venture Rewards cardholders receive up to $120 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees once every four years. This benefit works automatically - you'll receive the credit within two billing cycles after paying the application fee with your eligible card. Besides the Venture card, this benefit is likewise available on Capital One's Venture X, Spark Miles, and Venture X Business cards.
The Platinum Card from American Express provides a $120 statement credit for Global Entry application fees every four years. Alternatively, if you choose TSA PreCheck instead, you'll receive up to $85 in statement credits. Unlike some other cards, American Express specifically states that cardholders will only receive one credit per eligible program in the designated time period, ensuring you understand exactly when you can use this benefit again.
Citi's premium airline co-branded card offers cardmembers a statement credit of up to $120 every four years for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees. One important distinction is that cardmembers receive the statement credit for whichever program they apply for first, regardless of whether their application is ultimately approved. The credit typically appears within 1-2 billing cycles after the qualifying fee is charged to the account.
The United Explorer Card stands out by offering a statement credit of up to $120 every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fees. This effectively saves you the entire cost of enrollment in any of these trusted traveler programs. Although each of these programs requires renewal every five years, the benefit on this card refreshes every four years, providing flexibility for early renewal.
These credit card Global Entry benefits operate on a simple principle: pay the application fee with your eligible card, and the issuer automatically credits back the amount as a statement credit. Therefore, by strategically choosing one of these cards, you eliminate the standard $120 Global Entry fee completely while gaining additional premium travel benefits.
How to Use Your Global Entry Credit Card Benefit
Maximizing your credit card's Global Entry benefit simply requires understanding a few straightforward steps. Once you know how to properly utilize this valuable perk, you can enjoy expedited entry completely free of charge.
Paying the fee with your card
To redeem your Global Entry credit, simply pay the $120 application fee with your eligible credit card during the application process. After submitting your application through the Trusted Traveler Programs website, you'll reach the payment page where you'll enter your card details. The statement credit typically appears on your account automatically within two billing cycles, though timing varies by issuer.
For example, with the Chase Sapphire Reserve, the reimbursement posts shortly after the charge appears on your statement. American Express cardholders may need to wait up to eight weeks for the credit to appear on their Platinum Card statement.
Importantly, the reimbursement happens regardless of whether your Global Entry application is approved or denied. As soon as you pay the non-refundable application fee with your eligible card, you qualify for the statement credit.
Using the benefit for family or friends
One overlooked aspect of the Global Entry credit card benefit is its transferability. The card issuer only sees a charge from U.S. Customs and Border Protection—not the name on the application. This means you can pay for anyone's Global Entry application with your eligible card.
If you already have Global Entry or prefer using a different expedited security program, consider using your credit for a family member or friend. To do this, have them complete their application normally, then use your credit card for the payment step.
For families, this flexibility proves especially valuable when combined with the recent policy change making Global Entry free for children under 18 with enrolled parents.
Tracking benefit usage and expiration
Most credit cards offer the Global Entry benefit once every four years, though Global Entry membership lasts five years. To track when you can use the benefit again:
Check your credit card statements to identify when you last received the statement credit
Mark your calendar for four years from that date
Consider applying for renewal up to a year before your Global Entry expiration
Given the potential for processing delays that can take months, applying for renewal early is advisable. Under these circumstances, your existing membership remains valid during the renewal process, potentially extending your benefits for up to 24 months beyond the official expiration date.
For cards with authorized users, such as the Capital One Venture X, keep in mind that each authorized user may receive their own separate Global Entry credit, multiplying the value for your household.
Hidden Perks and Tips Most People Miss
Beyond the basic benefits, Global Entry offers several lesser-known perks that significantly enhance its value. These hidden advantages often go unnoticed yet can make an enormous difference in your travel experience.
Free Global Entry for kids under 18 with parent enrollment
Starting October 1, 2024, children under 18 will receive completely free Global Entry membership when a parent or legal guardian is already enrolled or applying simultaneously. This represents substantial savings for families who travel internationally, as previously each family member required separate payment of the full application fee. Under the new policy, a family of four with two children under 18 would save $240 compared to the current pricing structure.
To take advantage of this benefit, children still need to complete their own application through the Trusted Traveler Programs website. Additionally, minor children must have parental or legal guardian permission, and that adult must be present at the interview.
Interview on arrival option
Many travelers don't realize they can complete their Global Entry interview immediately upon returning from an international trip through the Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) program. This convenient option is currently available at 16 international airports abroad and 50 airports within the U.S..
To utilize this service, you must:
Have already submitted your application and received conditional approval
Be arriving on an international flight
Possess your valid passport and proof of residency documents
Follow airport signs for "Enrollment on Arrival" lanes
This approach eliminates the potentially months-long wait for a traditional enrollment center appointment, allowing you to finalize your membership immediately.
Combining with airline loyalty programs for added value
Several airline loyalty programs offer valuable integration with Global Entry, creating additional savings opportunities. For instance:
Delta Diamond Medallion members receive complimentary CLEAR membership while Platinum, Gold, and Silver members enjoy discounted rates
United MileagePlus members can redeem 11,000 miles for TSA PreCheck
Premier 1K United members receive free CLEAR membership
Furthermore, the Marriott Bonvoy program allows redemption of 25,000 points for a TSA PreCheck credit, providing an alternative way to access these expedited security benefits without using cash.
Conclusion
Global Entry stands out as one of the most valuable travel benefits available today. Throughout this article, we've explored how this program delivers substantial time savings both when entering the United States and when passing through TSA security checkpoints domestically. The standard $120 fee initially might seem significant, though when broken down to just $24 per year, the value becomes clear. However, you shouldn't pay this fee at all.
Credit cards have fundamentally transformed how travelers access premium benefits. With nearly 50 different cards offering Global Entry fee reimbursement, you can enjoy expedited security and customs completely free. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture Rewards, and The Platinum Card from American Express automatically credit your account after charging the application fee.
Additionally, recent policy changes make this benefit even more valuable for families. Children under 18 now receive free enrollment when a parent is a member, essentially doubling the value of your credit card benefit. The interview-on-arrival option likewise eliminates potential waiting periods, allowing you to complete the entire process during an international trip.
Most importantly, these benefits extend beyond just the primary cardholder. You can use your credit card to pay for anyone's Global Entry application – spouse, child, friend, or colleague – since the statement credit works regardless of whose name appears on the application.
After reviewing all the options, I recommend comparing the additional benefits of various cards offering Global Entry credits to find the perfect match for your travel habits. Your time is valuable, and skipping long security lines while paying nothing out-of-pocket represents one of the smartest travel decisions you can make today.
FAQs
Q1. How much does Global Entry typically cost and how long is it valid? Global Entry normally costs $120 for a five-year membership. This fee covers expedited customs screening when returning to the U.S. and includes TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic travel.
Q2. Which credit cards offer Global Entry fee reimbursement? Several premium credit cards offer Global Entry fee reimbursement, including Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture Rewards, The Platinum Card from American Express, Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard, and United Explorer Card.
Q3. Can I use my credit card's Global Entry benefit for someone else? Yes, you can use your credit card's Global Entry benefit to pay for anyone's application fee. The reimbursement is based on the charge from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, not the name on the application.
Q4. Are there any special benefits for families applying for Global Entry? Starting October 1, 2024, children under 18 will receive free Global Entry membership when a parent or legal guardian is already enrolled or applying simultaneously, resulting in significant savings for families.
Q5. What is the "Interview on Arrival" option for Global Entry? The "Interview on Arrival" option allows conditionally approved Global Entry applicants to complete their interview immediately upon returning from an international trip at select airports, eliminating the need to schedule a separate appointment.
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