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How to get Global Entry for free (yes, really)

Why pay $120 when you can glide through customs for free?

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luggage carousel in an airport
Eric Prouzet / Unsplash

After my first Global Entry experience, I knew I wanted it forever. 

If you travel even just a couple of times a year, Global Entry can make your trips feel a whole lot easier. You get to breeze through U.S. Customs and Border Protection when returning from international trips, and it comes with TSA PreCheck built in (meaning shorter security lines, no need to remove your shoes, and less pre-flight stress).

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But not everyone is excited to shell out the $120 application fee. The good news is, if you’re wondering how to get Global Entry for free, there are actually several legit ways to do it. You just need to know where to look.

1. Check your credit card perks

computer on table with credit card and wallet next to it
Sora Shimazaki / Pexels

According to The Points Guy on YouTube, many credit cards can help you get Global Entry for free. 

And after researching, this seems to be by far the easiest and most common way to get Global Entry for free.

Many premium travel credit cards will reimburse you for the Global Entry application fee. All you have to do is pay for the application with the card, and the credit will appear on your statement (usually within a few weeks). 

The benefit typically renews every five years, just like Global Entry does.

Here are a few popular cards that offer this perk:

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve
  • The Platinum Card from American Express
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
  • Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card
  • United Explorer Card

Even some airline and hotel co-branded cards offer this benefit, so it’s worth checking the fine print on any travel card you already carry.

2. Use airline or hotel loyalty points (rare but possible)

Passengers stand in line waiting to get to their seats.
Chris Brignola / Unsplash

Occasionally, airline and hotel loyalty programs offer Global Entry reimbursements or let you redeem points to cover the cost. This isn’t super common, but it does pop up now and then as a limited-time promotion.

3. Get Global Entry for free as a work perk

A man in a suit listening to music while hauling his luggage in the airport
Westend61 GmbH / Alamy

Some employers, especially those in consulting, tech, or companies with frequent travel, offer Global Entry reimbursement as a professional benefit. 

If you’re traveling for business, ask your HR department or travel coordinator whether this is something they’ll cover. It might not be something they advertise, but a quick email could save you $120.

4. Military or government travelers may qualify

Person about to get in line at the airport.
Song_about_summer/Shutterstock / Shutterstock

If you’re active-duty military or work for a federal agency, you might already have access to TSA PreCheck for free. 

While Global Entry isn’t always covered, some branches or programs may reimburse it for official travel. Check with your base or agency’s travel office to see what’s available to you.

5. Ask family or friends with eligible credit cards

Man holding a passport in his hand at the airport
Global Residence Index / Unsplash

You don’t have to be the primary cardholder to benefit from the credit card reimbursement. If someone you know has a card that offers a Global Entry credit and they haven’t used it, they can use their card to pay for your application and get the fee reimbursed.

It doesn’t affect your application process at all, it’s just a different card on file for payment.

Final thoughts: How to get Global Entry for free

man looking at flight schedule in airport
Erik Odiin / Unsplash

Global Entry is one of those travel perks that pays off in convenience alone.

But the fact that you can get it for free makes it even better. Whether it’s through a premium credit card, your job, or a helpful friend, there’s no need to pay the $120 fee out of pocket if you play your cards right.

So before you apply, take five minutes to check your wallet or reach out to your employer. You just might already have access to one of the easiest upgrades in travel!

Kelly Baker
Kelly Baker
Kelly is a writer who loves good books, baking homemade bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family. Read Full Bio
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