Is Global Entry Worth It? Here’s My Experience (and Why You Should Consider It)

Recently, I returned home from an international trip and landed at Chicago O’Hare Airport — and I saw firsthand just how valuable Global Entry can be. The line for immigration was so backed up that travelers with connections in less than three hours were almost guaranteed to miss their flights.

Luckily, I didn’t have to worry about a connecting flight this time — but Global Entry has helped me dozens of times at other ports of entry where making my next flight was a real race against the clock.
Thanks to Global Entry, I walked straight to a kiosk, completed my customs process within minutes, and was already waiting for my baggage while most passengers were still stuck in line.

After seeing similar horror stories posted on social media over the past couple of weeks, I knew I had to help others understand why Global Entry is absolutely worth it — especially if you travel internationally at least once a year.

In this blog, I’ll explain what Global Entry, Mobile Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck are, how they work, and why Global Entry is one of the best travel investments you can make.

What Is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) trusted traveler program designed to expedite your re-entry into the United States after international travel.
Instead of waiting in long immigration lines, Global Entry members use a designated kiosk to complete their process quickly — often in just a few minutes.

Key Benefits of Global Entry:

• Skip long immigration lines when arriving in the U.S.

• Includes TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic flights

• Valid for 5 years for a one-time $100 fee

• Available at most major U.S. airports

• Saves hours after international flights

Is Global Entry worth it?
If you value your time, reduced stress, and smoother travel experiences, the answer is a resounding yes.

What Is Mobile Global Entry?

For even faster re-entry, Mobile Global Entry allows eligible travelers to use their smartphone instead of a kiosk.
Using the CBP One™ app, you can submit your travel documents and photo as soon as you land, then simply show your receipt to a CBP officer on your way out.

Benefits of Mobile Global Entry:

• Complete customs inspection on your phone

• No need to wait for a kiosk

• Available at select airports (with more locations being added)

If you’re wondering, is Mobile Global Entry worth it? — the extra speed and convenience make it a clear yes if you’re already a Global Entry member.

What Is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a separate trusted traveler program that speeds up security screening for domestic flights.
It allows travelers to use special TSA lanes where you can keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on — and leave laptops and liquids in your bag.

Key Benefits of TSA PreCheck:

• Shorter security lines at over 200 U.S. airports

• Less hassle during security checks

• $78 application fee (valid for 5 years)

Good to know:
When you get Global Entry, you automatically receive TSA PreCheck benefits too — adding even more value to your membership.

Is Global Entry Worth It Compared to TSA PreCheck?

Bottom Line:
If you fly internationally even once per year, the time saved using Global Entry more than justifies the cost and application effort.

How to Apply for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

How to apply for Global Entry:

1. Apply online at the Trusted Traveler Programs website.

2. Pay the $100 non-refundable fee.

3. Schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.

4. Complete the interview, fingerprinting, and background check.

5. Upon approval, start traveling smarter for the next 5 years!

How to apply for TSA PreCheck only:

1. Apply at the TSA PreCheck website.

2. Pay the $78 application fee.

3. Attend a quick 10-minute background check.

4. Start using TSA PreCheck lanes after approval.

Important to Know About Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Before you apply, here are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Global Entry is only for U.S. travelers returning to the United States after an international trip.

• Global Entry does not let you skip immigration lines in other countries — it’s only for entry back into the U.S.

• TSA PreCheck, which is included with Global Entry, is only valid at U.S. airports for domestic security screening.

• When traveling internationally, you’ll still need to follow normal arrival procedures in foreign airports — Global Entry doesn’t apply there.

• Some credit cards give statement credits for Global Entry and TSA Pre-Check

Knowing this ahead of time helps set the right expectations and ensures you get the most out of your trusted traveler benefits!

Final Thoughts: Is Global Entry Worth It?

From personal experience — yes, Global Entry is absolutely worth it.
It saved me hours at immigration at Chicago O’Hare, and it’s saved me countless headaches on other trips as well.

If you travel internationally even once a year, Global Entry will pay for itself in time saved, missed connection stress avoided, and overall peace of mind.
And with TSA PreCheck included, you’ll enjoy a better airport experience both abroad and at home.

Don’t wait until you’re stuck in an endless immigration line — apply for Global Entry today and make every trip smoother.
Your future self at baggage claim will thank you!