TSA precheck vs. Global entry: What’s the difference?

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are two programs run by the Department of Homeland Security in the United States and are designed to help you, the traveler, save time and effort at airports. Sounds convenient? It is. However, when comparing the two programs, they differ significantly in their application and target audience.

While TSA PreCheck is designed for navigating security screening with ease at domestic airports in the United States, Global Entry helps international travelers enter the United States. In this article, we’ll explain what characterizes the programs, what benefits they provide, and who they’re suitable for. We’ll also examine the costs and requirements for applying. It’s also interesting to see how membership in one program can also include the benefits of the other.

Especially during a business trip, these regulations make staying at the airport easier and make the entire process much more efficient.

In terms of fees, the current price for TSA PreCheck is $85 and membership lasts for five years. The application for TSA PreCheck can be conveniently made online on the official website.

After the online application, a personal interview is conducted, which also includes taking fingerprints. Unfortunately, you cannot avoid this process, but this is the only way you as a member will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) after approval. This number must be provided to activate TSA PreCheck status when booking a flight.

Benefits of TSA precheck

• Faster security check

With TSA PreCheck, waiting times at security checks are significantly reduced, resulting in faster security checks. In practice, 99% of TSA PreCheck users wait in line for less than 10 minutes.

• Convenience

With TSA PreCheck, you avoid some annoying security checks, so you can simply wear shoes, belts and light jackets. Your laptop and liquids can stay in your luggage, which makes the process more pleasant.

• Special security areas

Many large airports in the USA have their own TSA PreCheck areas, which often have shorter queues and thus reduce waiting time.

• Benefits for frequent flyers

For business travelers who fly often, TSA PreCheck can be a huge relief. This is mainly due to less stress and more buffer at the end, as hardly any time has to be invested in security checks.

For travelers who only travel within the USA and tend to fall into the category of frequent flyers, TSA PreCheck is ideal. More convenience and efficiency with minimal bureaucratic effort. This means you can enjoy your trip through the USA without the usual interruptions caused by lengthy security procedures.

What is global entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. registration program for trusted U.S. travelers (= low-risk travelers) who can benefit from simplified and faster entry control after a security check before entry and subsequent approval.

By participating in the CBP Global Entry program, you as a traveler entering the U.S. can go through the identity checks at the border crossings independently and automatically. This saves you valuable time that you would otherwise lose.

The U.S. Global Entry program is operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and is available at more and more airports in the U.S. and recently also at Florida’s first port of entry.

The program is aimed particularly at business travelers with multiple entries per year, diplomats and flight personnel. The program has grown significantly in recent years and is becoming increasingly popular with many travelers to the U.S. According to CBP statistics, there are currently more than 12 million Global Entry users.

If you fly a lot and mainly use international airports, Global Entry can be very convenient for you, as it can often avoid long waiting times when entering the USA. Currently, the fee for the Global Entry program is 120 USD and membership is also valid for five years. Many travelers do not even know that with Global Entry you can automatically have access to the benefits of TSA PreCheck. It is an unbeatable advantage in many situations when traveling.

How to apply for global entry?

German citizens must undergo a border police pre-screening at a Federal Police service office, but only at selected German airports.

Does global entry include TSA precheck?

The Global Entry program also includes the benefits of TSA PreCheck. This means that as a Global Entry member, not only is entry into the U.S. expedited, but security screening on domestic flights is also faster.

This has a pleasant effect for travelers from abroad and is particularly evident in the significant reduction in waiting time, both when entering the country and at security checks within the USA. If you travel to the USA regularly, Global Entry has a double benefit for you.

Global entry vs. TSA precheck

TSA PreCheck aims to speed up security checks for domestic flights in the USA, while the Global Entry program facilitates entry after international flights. The two programs are aimed at frequent travelers, but differ in terms of costs, scope and application procedures.

Similarities TSA precheck vs Global entry

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry both offer their own advantages. However, they also have some similarities that we will look at in more detail in the following section.

Both programs are designed for frequent travelers who prefer to use their time at the airport as efficiently as possible. Whether it is the fast-track security check or the structured application process, both programs are designed to take the strain off travelers who are on the move regularly.

• Less time

Both programs reduce waiting times at security and immigration checks and help you reduce unnecessary travel stress.

• Application process

 Both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry require an online application, a fee and a security check. An in-person interview is also part of the process.

• Validity period

 Both memberships are valid for five years, making them a long-term solution for frequent travelers.

• Known Traveler Number (KTN)

 Members receive a Known Traveler Number that they can provide when booking to automatically receive benefits.

• Target audience

 Both programs are available to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents. Global Entry is also available to citizens of certain other countries.

Bottom line: Why it matters for business travelers

For business travelers, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are essential programs that simplify and speed up the airport experience.

Both programs help business travelers travel efficiently, which ultimately leads to a more productive workday.