Global Entry Fee Increases to $120

Getting through airport security and customs quickly is about to cost a little more. Starting October 1, 2024, the application fee for Global Entry will increase from $100 to $120. Here is everything you need to know about the price hike and how to get your credit card to pick up the tab.

Understanding the Global Entry Fee Increase

For over 15 years, the cost of joining Global Entry has remained entirely unchanged. Since the program launched, travelers have paid a flat $100 fee for a five-year membership. This price has long been considered one of the best bargains in travel, especially because Global Entry automatically includes TSA PreCheck.

However, U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced that the fee will jump to $120 on October 1, 2024. The government agency stated that the price increase is necessary to cover the rising costs of administering the program and conducting background checks.

While a 20 percent price increase might sound frustrating, the actual math still works out in favor of the traveler. At $120 for a five-year membership, you are paying just $24 per year to skip the massive customs lines when returning to the United States from an international trip.

A Major Win for Families Traveling with Minors

The absolute best news to come out of this pricing update affects families traveling with children. Previously, every single applicant had to pay the full $100 fee, regardless of their age. This meant a family of four would need to spend $400 just to use the Global Entry lanes together.

Starting on October 1, 2024, children under the age of 18 will be exempt from the application fee. To qualify for this free membership, the minor must have a parent or legal guardian who is either an active Global Entry member or is applying for membership at the exact same time.

This policy change completely changes the math for family vacations. Even with the adult fee rising to $120, a family of four with two minor children will now only pay $240 total instead of $400.

Credit Cards That Cover the New Cost

If you hold a premium travel rewards credit card, you likely will not have to pay this fee out of pocket. Many top-tier credit cards offer a statement credit for Trusted Traveler Programs every four to five years.

Fortunately, major credit card issuers have confirmed they are updating their benefit terms to cover the new $120 fee. Starting October 1, 2024, the statement credits provided by these banks will increase to match the new application cost.

Here are some of the most popular credit cards that offer this valuable benefit:

Chase Credit Cards

Chase offers the statement credit on several of its travel-focused cards. Cardholders can expect full coverage of the new fee on the following products:

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve
  • United Explorer Card
  • United Club Infinite Card
  • Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card
  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

American Express Credit Cards

American Express is well known for its extensive list of travel perks. The following cards will issue a statement credit of up to $120 for Global Entry:

  • The Platinum Card from American Express
  • Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card
  • Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card

Capital One Credit Cards

Capital One has aggressively expanded its travel benefits in recent years. You can use the following cards to cover your Global Entry application:

  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
  • Capital One Venture X Business
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

How the Statement Credit Actually Works

Getting your credit card to pay for your Global Entry application is incredibly simple. You do not need to register for the benefit in advance, and you do not need to enter a special promo code during the application process.

You simply fill out your application on the official Trusted Traveler Programs website. When you reach the payment screen, enter the information for your eligible credit card and pay the $120 fee. The credit card issuer’s system will automatically recognize the specific merchant code for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Within a few days to a few weeks, a matching $120 statement credit will appear on your account to wipe out the charge.

A very helpful trick to remember is that you do not have to use this credit for yourself. If you already have active Global Entry status but hold a credit card with an unused statement credit, you can use your card to pay for a spouse, friend, or family member. The credit card company only looks at the merchant code, not the name on the specific Global Entry application.

Changes to NEXUS and SENTRI Pricing

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is using this opportunity to harmonize the pricing across all of its Trusted Traveler Programs.

NEXUS is a program designed to speed up border crossings between the United States and Canada. For years, it has been heavily subsidized at just $50 for a five-year membership. Starting October 1, 2024, the fee for NEXUS will jump to $120 to match Global Entry.

SENTRI allows expedited clearance for pre-approved travelers crossing the southern border from Mexico. The fee for SENTRI is currently a confusing $122.25. On October 1, 2024, the SENTRI fee will be simplified and slightly reduced to $120.

Just like Global Entry, both NEXUS and SENTRI will also adopt the new rule allowing free access for minors whose parents are active members or concurrent applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

When exactly does the Global Entry fee increase take effect?

The fee will officially increase from $100 to $120 on October 1, 2024. If you apply and pay for your membership before this date, you will lock in the current $100 rate.

Do I have to pay the fee again if I am just renewing my membership?

Yes. Global Entry memberships last for five years. When your membership expires and you apply for a renewal, you will be required to pay the $120 application fee. However, your credit card statement credit should refresh every four to five years to cover this exact scenario.

Does Global Entry still include TSA PreCheck?

Yes. Every approved Global Entry member is automatically enrolled in TSA PreCheck at no additional cost. You simply add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your airline reservations to get access to the expedited security lanes.

What happens if my application is denied?

The $120 payment is an application processing fee. If you fail the background check or are denied membership during the interview process, the government will not refund your money. Fortunately, if you used an eligible credit card to pay the fee, the statement credit will still cover the cost so you are not out any actual cash.