The debate over global entry vs TSA PreCheck has become even more relevant in July 2025 as travel picks up globally. With the TSA announcing wait time spikes at major U.S. airports this summer and CBP processing record numbers of international arrivals, understanding the difference between these two trusted traveler programs is critical for anyone planning to fly soon
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Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck: What’s the Real Difference?
With air travel now back to (and in some cases beyond) pre-pandemic levels, many travelers are weighing the benefits of expedited security programs. Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck is the most common comparison, but choosing the right one in 2025 depends on your travel habits—especially international travel.
Both programs offer faster airport processing, but they serve different purposes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Covers Domestic Travel | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (includes TSA PreCheck) |
| Covers International Travel | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Application Fee (2025) | $78 (valid for 5 years) | $100 (valid for 5 years) |
| Interview Required | ✅ Yes (at TSA centers) | ✅ Yes (at CBP offices) |
| Approval Time | 3–5 days (on average) | 4–6 weeks (sometimes longer) |
Key Points Summary:
- TSA PreCheck is ideal for frequent domestic flyers.
- Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and helps with customs on international arrivals.
- Global Entry costs $22 more and takes longer to get approved.
- Both require background checks and in-person interviews.
- Global Entry users are reporting longer wait times for appointments in 2025 due to demand.
Choosing Between Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck in 2025
If you’ve got an international trip on the calendar, Global Entry is the smarter option. It includes all TSA PreCheck benefits and allows you to skip long lines at U.S. customs upon arrival from abroad. But there’s a catch in 2025: demand for Global Entry is at an all-time high.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), appointment slots for Global Entry interviews are fully booked months in advance at many major enrollment centers. Travelers in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles are experiencing delays of up to 90 days just to get an interview.
If you’re only flying domestically or need quick approval, TSA PreCheck is still the fastest path. The TSA now partners with multiple enrollment providers, and applicants are being approved within one week, on average.
Here’s how to decide:
- Pick TSA PreCheck if:
- You fly domestically more than 2–3 times a year.
- You need approval quickly (less than 10 days).
- You don’t travel abroad often.
- Choose Global Entry if:
- You travel internationally at least once a year.
- You’re okay waiting a few weeks for approval.
- You want the full benefits of expedited customs and TSA security.
What Travelers Are Saying in 2025
Social media and travel forums are buzzing with recent experiences. On Instagram, users like @JetSetJenna report that their Global Entry interviews were rescheduled twice due to system overloads, while others on Reddit’s r/travel subreddit are praising TSA PreCheck’s speed and convenience.
One YouTube creator, “TravelWithTroy,” recently posted a side-by-side airport comparison of both services. His verdict? TSA PreCheck was faster for departure, but Global Entry saved him 45 minutes upon returning from Europe.
In short, your choice comes down to where you’re going—and how often.
Conclusion:
With both programs designed to save travelers time, your decision between global entry vs TSA PreCheck should reflect your personal travel plans. For domestic-only flyers, TSA PreCheck offers the fastest and most affordable route. But if you’re crossing borders, Global Entry’s added customs benefits are worth the extra cost and wait.
Stay tuned for the latest global entry vs tsa precheck developments and real-time updates. What are your thoughts on the current situation? Tell us in the comments!