Is Global Entry Worth It?

Is Global Entry Worth It? Yes.

There are three fast-track programs that can be used in the U.S. to speed up different parts of the airport experience: Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR. Each have their own benefits and can be used together for the best possible travel experience.

Global Entry is focused on streamlining re-entry into the United States from travel abroad while TSA PreCheck allows for faster security screening at U.S. Airports. TSA PreCheck can be added to Global Entry membership once a traveler is accepted. CLEAR is a private biometric-based "fast pass" that gets business and leisure travelers to the front of the U.S. security line.

But why choose one when you can easily sign up for all?

At Navan, we believe in-person connections drive businesses forward, but too often, the process of getting there is full of delays, poor booking experiences, and long airport lines. Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR help travelers get through security, customs, and immigration faster—so they can focus on being there rather than the journey itself.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved travelers to use expedited customs and immigration processing when re-entering the U.S. from an international trip. Global Entry membership also includes TSA PreCheck, making both arrivals and departures smoother for business and leisure travelers.

When departing, TSA PreCheck lets travelers access expedited security lanes where they can keep their shoes, belts, laptops, and liquids inside their bags. On arrival back to the U.S., Global Entry kiosks now use facial recognition technology instead of fingerprints to identify travelers and complete the customs process without paperwork.

Additionally, Global Entry members can use expedited entry benefits in select international locations, including Abu Dhabi, Dublin, and Montreal.

How much does U.S. Global Entry cost?

U.S. Global Entry costs $120 for 5 years. Given that TSA PreCheck costs $78 on its own, it is worth the extra $15 to get access to both services. You can apply for both U.S. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck in the same application, and the coverage period is the same.

Some credit cards reimburse the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, making it an even better value.

Where is U.S. Global Entry available?

Travelers can use Global Entry at approximately 75 airports in the U.S., major Canadian airports, and select international locations such as Abu Dhabi, Aruba, Bermuda, Dublin, Grand Bahamas, and Nassau. In addition, more than 200 U.S. airports offer TSA PreCheck lanes for domestic travel.

Are you eligible for U.S. Global Entry?

In addition to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, Global Entry eligibility has expanded to include citizens of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Germany, India, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.

Applying for Global Entry

Business travelers need to apply and be pre-approved for the U.S. Global Entry program. The application process includes a background check and an in-person interview, but we know business travelers are short on time, so we highlight the easiest ways to enroll below.

To apply, you must create a Trusted Traveler account, complete an application, and pay a $120 non-refundable application fee. If the application is approved, business travelers will be notified to schedule an interview, which takes place at U.S. Global Entry Enrollment Centers within international airports in the United States, Canada, or Qatar. Applicants must bring a valid passport and a second form of ID.

Tip: If you’re already traveling internationally, you can complete your Global Entry interview upon arrival in the U.S. Many major airports now offer Enrollment on Arrival (EoA), where CBP officers conduct interviews for approved applicants as they go through customs. This is a convenient option for frequent travelers.

U.S. Global Entry members will also receive a U.S. Global Entry Card to use at land and sea ports of entry.

What’s included in TSA PreCheck?

U.S. Global Entry members who opt in are immediately eligible for TSA PreCheck. It gives business travelers access to dedicated security lanes at over 200 U.S. airports and faster screenings because members don’t need to remove their shoes, laptops, or liquids when passing through security screening. According to the TSA, 92% of TSA PreCheck members wait less than five minutes for screening.

To receive the added TSA PreCheck benefits, U.S. Global Entry members must enter their membership number in the “Known Traveler Number” field when booking reservations or enter it into their frequent flyer profile within Navan.

What is CLEAR?

CLEAR is a private biometric identity verification program that moves travelers quickly through airport security.

Instead of showing an ID and boarding pass to a TSA agent, CLEAR members scan their eyes or fingerprints at a CLEAR kiosk and head directly to the front of the security line — either regular or TSA PreCheck depending on whether TSA PreCheck is on the boarding pass. Business travelers will still have to remove their shoes and laptops unless they belong to TSA PreCheck or U.S. Global Entry.

CLEAR is available at 70+ U.S. airports, stadiums, and other venues nationwide and is expected to grow. Clear costs $189 per year, but some airlines such as United and Delta provide free CLEAR membership for customers with a certain status.

The Navan Recommendation

Navan is dedicated to making the travel experience as frictionless as possible. Fast-track programs like Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR help travelers avoid long airport lines, reducing stress and saving time.

We recommend travelers sign up for all three fast-track options so they can get where they’re going as efficiently as possible. Adding them only makes sense.

Simplify business travel. Sign up for a demo today.