TSA PreCheck orGlobal Entry ?

Deciding to get TSA PreCheck or Global Entry is a pretty straight forward process! First, know the different functions of each. Then compare the timelines for completing each application. Collect the needed documents ahead of time and simply apply online before setting up your appointment or interview.

THE DIFFERENT PURPOSES

The TSA PreCheck streamlines security screening at the departing gates of the USA airports. Global Entry streamlines the international arrival process at 75 USA airports when returning to USA from traveling abroad. If you are applying for Global Entry, there is no need to apply for TSA PreCheck because TSA PreCheck is included in your Global Entry! Both options save you time spent in security lines at the airport. Both expire in 5 years. The Global Entry approval is much more involved than the TSA approval process.

BENEFITS of TSA PreCheck

• While going through departure flight security checks you do not have to remove

• your shoes,

• your laptop,

• your 3-1-1 liquids,

• your belt, or

• your light jacket

• Expires in 5 years

• Renewal costs less than first time application

  
  

BENEFITS of Global Entry

• No processing lines for international arrivals

• No paperwork to fill out

• Access to expedited entry

• Available at major U.S. airports

• Expires in 5 years

All in all, you have less waiting, fewer headaches, more time, and a better flying experience when you have your Global Entry.

APPLICATION PROCESS for TSA PreCheck

1. Apply online in less than 5 minutes

2. Visit Enrollment Location at your scheduled time for a 10 minute process of

   1. Getting your enrollment documents verified

   2. Fingerprinting

   3. Photo taken

   4. Pay fee which is currently $85

3. Once approved which usually happens in 3-5 days, your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is sent to you.

4. In less than 10% of the cases, your approval may take up to 60 days.

5. 90% of the applicants receive their KTN with in 3-5 days.

APPLICATION PROCESS for Global Entry

1. Apply online

   1. Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account

   2. Complete online application which currently includes a $100 non-refundable application fee.

   3. Schedule an interview at Global Entry Enrollment Center while applying online.

2. Enroll in person

   1. Schedule an appointment for interview

      1. with an Enrollment Center (designated airports listed on the website)

      2. Enrollment of Arrival option allows applicants who are conditionally approved to complete their interviews upon arrival into the United States at an Enrollment on Arrival location.

   2. Bring with you your valid passport and on other form of ID such as a driver's license. 

3. In less than 20% of the cases, your approval may take up to 6 months or more to be approved.

4. 80% of the applicants receive their Global Entry Card within 2-3 weeks.

TRAVEL TIPS

• Check your credit cards to see if their perks include paying for your TSA PreCheck (KTN) and or Global Entry Card. Some of the travel oriented credit cards will pay your application fees for you!

• Make sure you go to the official homeland security website to apply for TSA PreCheck and/or Global Entry. There are websites out there that try to attract you and charge you a middle-man fee for filling the form out for you. Here is the official website. https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs

• Plan ahead. Be on the safe side and apply for your TSA PreCheck 60-90 days before travel. It is best to apply for The Global Entry Card 6-7 months before travel.

• Collect all your documents before scheduling your appointments. If you have had a legal name change they will want to see an official copy of documents such as a marriage license and/or divorce decree or other related documents.

• Do not apply for both. Choose Global Entry when you know you will be traveling internationally at least 4 times in a year or at least once a year for the next 4 years.

• Once you have a Known Traveler Number (KTN) always provide it to your travel agent at the beginning of the travel planning process. Whether it is you or the travel agent booking your airline tickets, the KTN number needs to be given to the airlines at the time of booking. The airport security will want to see the KTN number on your ticket in order to allow all the benefits of the TCA PreCheck.

• And my favorite travel tip of all, enjoy your trip!

Streamline your airport security process.