Global Entry Fee Has Increased to $120, but Kids Are Now Free

As of October 1, 2024, the enrollment fee for Global Entry has jumped from $100 to $120. This is the first fee hike in 15 years, according to the agency.

Global Entry is one of the best expedited security programs as it also includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck. And with the right credit card, you can get the fee completely reimbursed.

While a fee increase isn’t great news, there’s a very positive change that’s also happened — minors under 18 years old will now have their application fees waived when a parent or legal guardian is already a member of, or is applying for, Global Entry.

Here’s what you need to know about the Global Entry application process and what credit cards offer enrollment credits.

$20 Fee Increase, Fee Waived for Minors

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency has increased the application fee for Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI to $120 for a 5-year membership. Kids under 18 will have their fee waived if a parent or legal guardian is already a member of one of these programs or is concurrently applying.

This cost jump of $20 for Global Entry and $70 for NEXUS is for “continuation and management of the programs.” This is a different direction from the TSA PreCheck program, which cut its price from $85 to $78 for a 5-year membership in 2022.

However, with Global Entry containing all of the benefits of TSA PreCheck, it will still be the best value for travelers — even if flying internationally isn’t a regular part of your schedule.

I always recommend Global Entry, even if you travel internationally only 1 to 2 times per year. It’s a small investment that will make your travel experience much easier. In instances where customs can get extremely backed up, having access to an expedited security membership could potentially save you hours of time.

And since children are now free, you can potentially get even more value out of your Global Entry membership if you travel with kids.

How To Apply for Global Entry, Step-by-Step

Applying for Global Entry is simple but will take about 15 minutes, as the application asks many questions, including about previous employers and residences.

Here’s where to get started:

1. Visit the CBP website.

2. When you reach the next screen, be sure to select Global Entry, the second option from the left. When you hit Apply Now!, you’ll see a page that looks like this:

3. You will then create a log-in, and begin your application process.

At the very last page of the application, you’ll be prompted to put in your card information. While you can use your preferred debit or credit card, there are cards available that reimburse the fee. That means that when you use the right card, you can get a statement credit for the cost.

If you pass the background check, you will be given preapproval. You will then need to schedule an interview and visit a Global Entry Enrollment Center. The interview only takes a few minutes, and approval is often immediate.

The final step after approval is to find your Known Traveler Number. Once you have this, you can enter this number when you purchase flights, and you will be able to stroll through either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry lines for the next 5 years.

Credit Cards with Global Entry Credits

There are many credit cards that come with Global Entry credits, so be sure to look around for one that fits your criteria. Here are a few of my favorites.

Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum card comes with a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee (as of October 1, 2024) or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck. Additionally, the card offers CLEAR^® Plus credit of up to $209 annually for the separately operated CLEAR security program. With both enrollments, you can quickly choose which line is shorter and zoom your way to your gate.

The card also comes with a myriad of other benefits, including lounge access, travel insurance, and more.

However, the card does have a steep $895 annual fee (rates & fees).

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The IHG Premier card is a solid hotel credit card for those who enjoy IHG brands like Holiday Inn and InterContinental. The card comes with benefits like an annual free night certificate and IHG One Platinum Elite status, and also has a $120 credit towards either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

In fact, I used my IHG Premier card to renew my Global Entry membership a few months ago, and it was an extremely simple process. This is what the end payment (and credit) looked like on my statement:

Bank of America^® Premium Rewards^® Credit Card

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card has a much lower annual fee than the Amex Platinum card but still comes with the same $120 credit towards applying for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

In addition, the card comes with $100 in airline incidental statement credits for purchases like seat upgrades, baggage fees, inflight services, and more.

The card has a modest $95 annual fee, which can be easily earned back by using just these 2 benefits.

Final Thoughts

Global Entry is a great way to save time and headaches at the airport. And with several credit cards offering a Global Entry application fee credit, it’s a smart choice. As of October 1, 2024, the fee to apply for Global Entry has increased from $100 to $120. Additionally, kids under 18 will now be able to apply for free as long as a parent is applying or is already a member.