Apply for Global Entry Now Before Fees Go Up
If you’ve been thinking about applying for Global Entry, the U.S. government’s expedited customs clearance program, you should do so as soon as possible. Membership has long carried a $100 fee that includes TSA PreCheck (expedited screening at many airports) and is valid for five years. But starting October 1, 2024, the program cost for new applications and renewals will increase by 20% to $120 .
Unfortunately, if you are currently a Global Entry member, you may not be able to renew your subscription or renew at a lower price until October. Subscription renewals are accepted up to one year in advance, so if your membership expires after October 2025, you will not be able to renew without paying a higher fee. But if you’re willing to renew your license before then, you can apply for $100.
In addition to Global Entry, fees for other Trusted Traveler programs, including NEXUS (Expedited Entry from Canada) and SENTRI (Expedited Entry from Canada and Mexico), also increase to $120.
How to Apply for Global Entry
To apply for Global Entry, you must complete an online application and receive conditional approval, which will allow you to schedule a screening interview. Please note that the current processing time for new Global Entry applications is 4-6 months. You have options to speed up your Global Entry registration , but it really comes down to finding a spot for an in-person interview as soon as possible. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has introduced additional interview options, including check-in at departure , for travelers flying out of Washington Dulles International Airport outside of Washington, DC.
Of course, you should also consider whether Global Entry is the best expedited screening program for how you travel. If you fly mostly domestically, you may be fine with TSA PreCheck, which costs $78 for five years, and/or CLEAR, which is a good add-on if you can get a free or discounted membership (since wait times are often longer than PreCheck). Anyway). If you have a credit card with travel benefits, your annual fee may also offset the cost of one or more of these programs.