Is TSA PreCheck Easier to Get Than Global Entry?
The question of whether TSA PreCheck is easier to obtain than Global Entry often arises among travelers. While both programs serve to expedite the travel process, they differ in terms of requirements, fees, and benefits. In this article, we will compare the two programs to help you determine which one is better suited for your needs.
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry: An Overview
TSA PreCheck is a program that allows frequent travelers to undergo a TSA-approved background check and expedited screening process at airports in the United States. The program ensures that eligible travelers spend less time in security lines, making travel more convenient and efficient.
Global Entry, on the other hand, is a customs and border protection program for frequent international travelers. It offers expedited access to customs and immigration facilities, as well as screening at U.S. airports, and allows entry into Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries.
Conditions for Getting TSA PreCheck and Global Entry
TSA PreCheck imposes fewer restrictions on its applicants. To qualify, individuals need to pass a background check, which includes a non-face-to-face interview, submission of fingerprints, and a photo. These submissions can usually be done online, though in-person interviews are occasionally required.
On the other hand, Global Entry has more stringent requirements. In addition to the background check, applicants need to undergo an in-person interview during which a photo and fingerprints are taken. This process can be more time-consuming and inconvenient for those who live in smaller cities or areas without Global Entry screening facilities.
Requirements and Fees
The main requirement for TSA PreCheck is a background check. The fee for joining TSA PreCheck is $85 for five years. While the cost of Global Entry is $105 for five years, it offers additional benefits beyond expedited travel, such as access to customs screening for reentry into the U.S. and at certain air and sea ports in other countries.
It's important to note that with Global Entry, you not only get expedited screening for domestic travel but also 72 hours of expedited customs and immigration processing upon reentering the United States after being abroad. Additionally, you can use Global Entry facilities to clear customs and immigration at a variety of international airports, making it a more comprehensive program with broader utility.
Travel Benefits and Specific Requirements
TSA PreCheck focuses primarily on helping travelers move more quickly through airport security. Once you have been pre-approved, you can CISP (Consolidated Screening of In-Flight Passengers) lanes at airports to reduce security wait times.
Global Entry not only provides expedited screening but also offers access to federal buildings for business travel, making it a more versatile option for both business and leisure travel. Furthermore, Global Entry holders do not need to obtain a REAL ID to fly, simplifying the travel process for many.
Conclusion
In summary, while TSA PreCheck may be easier to obtain due to less stringent requirements and fewer in-person steps, Global Entry offers a broader set of benefits and is a better fit for frequent international travelers. If you frequently travel internationally and plan to visit countries such as Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, Global Entry presents a more appealing option.
On the other hand, if your main concern is reducing time spent in airport security lines for domestic travel, TSA PreCheck could be the better choice. However, even if you only save $15 on the Global Entry fee, the additional benefits of the program might make it a worthwhile investment.
Ultimately, the decision to apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry depends on your specific travel needs and priorities. Carefully considering the facts and benefits of each program will help you make the best choice for your travel requirements.