Global Entry vs. SENTRI: Which One’s Right for You?
6 Min Read | Published: May 5, 2024
This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.
Global Entry and SENTRI are great options for travelers looking to reduce time spent at airports and borders. See which program is right for you.
At-A-Glance
- Global Entry and SENTRI are both Trusted Traveler Programs that could help you to save time when traveling.
- The right Trusted Traveler Program for you will depend on your preferences and the type of travel that you do.
- Certain credit cards may offer reimbursement for the Global Entry application fee. This may be in the form of statement credit.
Global Entry and SENTRI (also known as Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) are two well-known programs that help travelers get to where they need to go with fewer hassles. However, there are some important differences to be aware of. In this article, we’ll look at the benefits of both of these Trusted Traveler Programs, so you can make an informed decision and see which one is right for you.
Features of Global Entry
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) pre-clearance program. Global Entry gives pre-approved, low-risk travelers expedited clearance upon arrival into the United States. Global Entry travelers benefit from reduced wait times at security and customs1 and can be used at both U.S. land and seaports of entry.2
Global Entry includes SENTRI and NEXUS, though you may have to pay additional fees. You can use your Global Entry card in SENTRI or NEXUS lanes when traveling from Mexico or Canada. However, you can’t use the Global Entry card for NEXUS lanes when traveling to Canada.3
Did you know? Global Entry has more than 10 million members.4
How to Apply for Global Entry
Getting a Global Entry card takes more effort upfront but can save you time in the long run. It’s especially valuable for frequent travelers, or anyone who is looking to reduce the time they spend in lines at the airport. Here are the steps to apply for Global Entry.5
- Create a Trusted Traveler Program account: The first step to apply for Global Entry is to create an online account. Visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler Program page to get started.
- Fill out your application: From your online account, you can then choose the program you wish to join and complete the application.
- Schedule an interview: If your application is accepted, you’ll need to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.
- Pay the fee: In order to complete your application, you’ll need to pay a non-refundable fee. Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s page, How to Apply for Global Entry for the latest information on pricing. Note that using an eligible (and enrolled) travel credit card could make you eligible for reimbursement. This may be in the form of statement credit.
Features of SENTRI
SENTRI is a popular program that provides expedited entry into the United States from Mexico when arriving via designated land border crossings. Additionally, SENTRI members can use NEXUS lanes when entering the United States from Canada by land.6 A SENTRI pass is valid for five years.7
SENTRI cardholders also get Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® benefits. SENTRI members who want to use Global Entry must provide their fingerprints and document information to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. SENTRI members can use Global Entry kiosks when entering the United States by air.8
How to Apply for SENTRI
Here are the steps to apply for SENTRI.9
- Confirm your eligibility: First, you’ll want to make sure you’re eligible for the SENTRI program. SENTRI doesn’t have a citizenship or age requirement, but people under the age of 18 need a parent or guardian’s permission to join SENTRI.
- Create a Trusted Traveler account: Like Global Entry applicants, you need to create an account first. Visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler Program page.
- Complete your application and pay the fee: From your Trusted Traveler Program account, follow the prompts to apply for SENTRI. You will need to pay a nonrefundable $122.25 fee. Visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler Program page for the latest information on pricing.
- Attend interview: If your application is conditionally approved, you’ll be invited to schedule an interview at a SENTRI Enrollment Center. You may be required to bring a valid passport, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance to the interview.
Global Entry vs. SENTRI: Which One’s Best?
The best Trusted Traveler Program for you depends on your needs and travel habits.
For example, if you frequently travel to the United States through Canada and Mexico’s land borders, SENTRI may make the most sense for you. SENTRI also includes access to Global Entry. On the other hand, Global Entry may be best for travelers who frequent international destinations and would like expedited entry back into the U.S., and who don’t travel by vehicle to Mexico or Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Global Entry holders can use SENTRI lanes to enter the United States. However, you must register your vehicle with U.S. Customers and Border Protection to use SENTRI lanes. If you register your vehicle in SENTRI during your Global Entry application, there is no extra fee. Registering your vehicle after the fact will incur a fee.
You may not be eligible for SENTRI if you have pending criminal charges or have been convicted of a criminal offense. Additionally, providing false information in your application may disqualify you from the SENTRI program.
The Takeaway
Global Entry and SENTRI are great options for travelers who want to reduce the amount of time they spend at airports and borders. It’s important to choose a program that aligns with your specific needs and travel patterns.
1 “Global Entry Trusted Traveler Program Enrollment,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
2 “Global Entry card,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
3 “Using Global Entry card in the SENTRI or NEXUS lanes,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
4 “CPB hosting enrollment events in Jacksonville for conditionally approved Global Entry applications,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
5 “How to apply for Global Entry,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
6 “Benefits of SENTRI,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
7 “Trusted Traveler Programs,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection (PDF)
8 “Global Entry frequently asked questions,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
9 “How to apply for SENTRI,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Theresa Stevens is a personal finance writer based in Boston, Massachusetts. Her work has been featured in Forbes Advisor, Bankrate, USA TODAY Blueprint and more.
All Credit Intel content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express.
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