The Cost of Global Entry is Increasing for the First Time in 15 Years

by Anthony Losanno
Global Entry Kiosks

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US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced today that it’s increasing the fees on three of its Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP). NEXUS, SENTRI, and Global Entry will each cost $120 after October 1st.

This is the first increase in cost that the agency has levied in the past 15 years. The new fees will be:

  • SENTRI (which allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States using dedicated primary lanes at Southern land border ports) will shift from an “a la carte” fee structure to a uniform cost of $120.
  • NEXUS (a joint program managed by CBP and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) that allows dedicated processing between the US and Canada) will increase from $50 to $120.
  • Global Entry, which has saved me countless hours when entering the United States, will see a nominal increase from $100 to $120.

Per the CBP:

On April 2, a final rule was published in the Federal Register, harmonizing the fees for the NEXUS, Global Entry, and SENTRI programs, better reflecting the program costs. The new fees, which have not been updated in over 15 years, will go into effect October 1, 2024.  As these programs have matured and expanded, updating the fee structures is critical to the continuation and management of the programs.”

Global Entry 2

I have not actually paid the fee for Global Entry, ever. Many premium credit cards offer $100 fee reimbursement. This can be used for the cardholder or a family member once every four years. The Platinum Card® from American Express picked up the tab for my last renewal. In addition to the increased costs, families will see one benefit (and hopefully not slow down other travelers). Children under the age of 18 will now be allowed to go with their parents or guardians if they are enrolled in Global Entry.

Anthony’s Take: These programs are definitely worth the cost and even with the increases can provide value if you travel even once per year (especially if you have a credit card that can reimburse you for the fee).

(Image Credits: US Customs and Border Protection.)

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