US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently announced a 20% increase in Global Entry fees, bumping the cost to $120 from $100.
For frequent travelers who value skipping those airport lines, it’s another hit to the wallet—but is it still worth it?
What Exactly is Global Entry?
If you’re unfamiliar with Global Entry, it’s part of the Trusted Traveler Programs that allow pre-approved travelers to fast-track through US customs and immigration. Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck, making it popular with frequent fliers looking to save time at security.
When Do the New Fees Start?
Starting October 1, 2024, applicants for Global Entry will have to pay the new $120 fee. This is the first price hike since Global Entry’s launch in 2008, making it a significant increase for anyone renewing or applying for the program in the coming months.
Children under 18 can apply for free when a parent is applying or is already a Global Entry member, adding extra value for families.
The Justification Behind the Hike
CBP has defended the fee increase, citing rising administrative costs and the need to maintain and improve program operations. CBP has cited the need to maintain and enhance program operations as part of their reasoning for the fee hike. But not everyone is convinced that the extra $20 is justified.
Are Travelers Getting Anything in Return?
The fee hike comes without any announced enhancements to the Global Entry program itself. For travelers, this raises the question: why the sudden jump? Frequent travelers may be willing to pay, but many are wondering what improvements, if any, are in the pipeline.
What Do Critics Say?
Critics have raised concerns about the fee increase, arguing that it could make Global Entry less accessible for many travelers. While CBP cites rising costs as justification, many are questioning whether the fee hike will translate into tangible benefits for users. Calls for greater transparency in how these fees are used have grown louder.
Rising Fees Across Trusted Traveler Programs
Global Entry isn’t the only program seeing a fee hike. Nexus, another Trusted Traveler Program used for travel between the US and Canada, is also increasing its fee by $20, from $50 to $70. It’s part of a broader trend of rising fees across government travel services.
What Are the Alternatives?
For those balking at the price hike, TSA PreCheck remains a lower-cost option at $85 for five years. While it doesn’t cover international travel, it’s a cheaper alternative for domestic travelers looking to speed up their airport experience.
The Real Cost of Frequent Travel
With fees rising for programs like Global Entry and Nexus, many travelers are reconsidering the value of these programs. While they offer convenience, the growing costs might make some pause before renewing or applying.
The Broader Issue of Travel Costs
This price increase also reflects a broader trend in rising travel costs. From airfare to hotel stays, travelers are already feeling the pinch, and now even expedited travel services are becoming more expensive.
Global Entry’s Popularity
Despite the fee increase, Global Entry remains incredibly popular, with over 9 million members. In 2023, international travel saw a strong recovery, with a significant rise in demand for Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry. But will this new fee hike slow down demand?
What’s Next for Global Entry?
CBP has hinted that further upgrades to the program could be coming, but specifics remain unclear. For now, travelers will have to decide whether paying $120 for five years of hassle-free travel is worth the investment—or if it’s time to reconsider.
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rebekah Zemansky.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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