U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will be increasing fees for some Trusted Traveler Programs, including Global Entry, starting October 1, 2024. The Global Entry application fee will rise to $120 from its current $100 cost, representing a 20% increase. The programs impacted also include SENTRI and NEXUS, which provide expedited entry into the U.S. from Mexico and Canada respectively. NEXUS will see a significant 140% increase from its original $50 cost. These adjustments are being made to ensure the continuation and effective management of these programs, as the fees have not been updated in over 15 years.
While Global Entry fees are increasing, TSA PreCheck will remain unaffected by this price hike. Individuals with premium credit cards from companies like American Express, Chase, Capital One, and U.S. Bank that cover the current $100 Global Entry application fee may see changes. While some credit cards offer travel credits that can cover the higher fee, it will be up to the individual companies to decide if they will continue covering the full expense. Chase Bank has not announced any updates regarding this issue, and responses from other credit card companies have not been immediate.
A positive change coming with the fee adjustments is the elimination of application fees for minors for these Trusted Traveler Programs. As long as a parent or legal guardian is already enrolled or actively applying for the programs, minors will no longer need to pay the application fee. Previously, members under 18 were required to pay the full $100 fee. This change will help make the programs more accessible for families and encourage more minors to enroll in Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS.
As of August 2023, Global Entry had over 12 million members who enjoy the benefits of expedited entry into the U.S. from international travel. Members of these programs must renew their memberships every five years, with renewal fees being required each time. The increase in fees for Trusted Traveler Programs will not impact members of TSA PreCheck, which provides expedited security screenings at airports across the country.
Overall, the fee adjustments being made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry are aimed at ensuring the continued operation and effectiveness of these programs, which have not seen fee increases in over 15 years. While the cost of applying to these programs will increase, minors will no longer be required to pay an application fee, making the programs more accessible for families. Members of premium credit cards that cover the Global Entry fee may need to review their benefits, as the increase could impact coverage. Despite the changes, the benefits of expedited entry and security screening provided by these programs remain valuable for frequent travelers.
