The Global Entry application fee is $120, but millions of travelers pay $0 — because their credit card covers it automatically.
If you're planning to apply for Global Entry (or SENTRI or NEXUS), checking your card benefits before paying is one of the easiest ways to save money. Here is our official credit card reimbursement list for 2026.
How the Reimbursement Works
Most cards use a statement credit system. You pay the CBP application fee with your eligible card on the official Trusted Traveler Programs website, and the reimbursement appears on your statement automatically — no forms, no receipts to submit. The timing varies from a few days to a few billing cycles.
The credit typically applies to:
- Global Entry ($120)
- TSA PreCheck ($78)
- NEXUS ($50 for U.S. citizens)
Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, using the credit on Global Entry gives you the best value.
Top Cards with Global Entry Credits
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Credit amount: Up to $120 every 4 years Annual fee: $550
The Chase Sapphire Reserve reimburses Global Entry or TSA PreCheck once every four years. It also carries a $300 annual travel credit that offsets most of the annual fee. A solid all-around travel card with strong points earning on travel and dining.
American Express Platinum
Credit amount: Up to $120 every 4.5 years (primary + each authorized user with their own card) Annual fee: $695
Amex Platinum is particularly useful for families. Each authorized user who has their own Platinum card gets their own Global Entry credit separately, which can cover multiple family members over time. The card comes with a long list of other travel perks — lounge access, hotel status, airline fee credits — that can justify the higher annual fee.
Capital One Venture X
Credit amount: Up to $120 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Annual fee: $395
One of the more accessible premium travel cards. The Venture X offers the Global Entry credit plus a $300 annual travel credit and strong miles earning. Annual fee is lower than Amex Platinum or CSR, making it a great entry point for premium card benefits.
Citi Prestige
Credit amount: Up to $120 every 5 years Annual fee: $495
The Citi Prestige offers a Global Entry credit alongside a generous hotel benefit (fourth night free on hotel bookings). Note that this card is no longer available to new applicants, but existing cardholders retain their benefits.
United Explorer Card & Other Co-Branded Airline Cards
Credit amount: Varies ($100–$120) Annual fees: $95–$250
Several airline co-branded cards also include Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credits, including select United, Delta, and American Airlines cards. Coverage amounts and frequency vary — check your specific card's current benefits.
If You Don't Have an Eligible Card
If none of your current cards offer the Global Entry credit, it may be worth opening one before you apply — especially if the card's welcome bonus and other travel perks justify the annual fee.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture X are popular choices for travelers who want a strong all-around card with the Global Entry credit built in.
That said, even at $120 out of pocket, Global Entry is extremely good value: $24/year to skip immigration and customs lines on every international return, with TSA PreCheck included. For frequent travelers, it pays for itself on the first or second trip.
After You Pay — Don't Forget the Interview
Once your credit card covers the fee and your application is submitted, the next step is clearing the background check (2–6 months) and then scheduling your in-person interview.
This is where most people get stuck. At busy enrollment centers like JFK, LAX, and O'Hare, interview appointments can be booked out 6–11 months in advance. The official CBP portal doesn't notify you when cancellations open up — you'd have to manually refresh it around the clock. If you already have Global Entry and are just looking to cover your next cycle, check out our Global Entry Renewal Guide for current timeline expectations.
A Global Entry appointment scanner like Appt Helper monitors the CBP portal 24/7 and sends you an instant SMS or email alert the moment a slot opens at your preferred enrollment center. Most users secure an interview within 2–5 days rather than waiting almost a year.
Credit card benefits change frequently. Always verify current benefit terms directly with your card issuer before applying. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.