Best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck of April 2025
Navigating airport security can be a major travel headache, but Global Entry credit cards and TSA PreCheck credit cards offer a way to streamline the process. CardRatings editors have examined the perks of these programs, and are here to help you understand which credit cards waive application fees for cardholders. Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck memberships can significantly improve your airport experience, cutting down on those dreaded long lines. While many of us enjoy the excitement of travel, bypassing the stress of lengthy security lines is a perk everyone is sure to appreciate, particularly when time is of the essence.
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CardRatings’ top picks for the best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck
Streamlining your airport experience is easier than ever with Global Entry credit cards and TSA PreCheck credit cards. Many premium travel rewards cards offer statement credits to reimburse the application fees for these valuable programs. Here’s a look at some of the top contenders that can help you breeze through security and customs.
Why we like it
This is a great card for travelers who aren't committed to one particular airline or hotel brand as it rewards you for every purchase made, and those rewards can be redeemed towards almost any travel purchase.
This is a great card for travelers who aren't committed to one particular airline or hotel brand as it rewards you for every purchase made, and those rewards can be redeemed towards almost any travel purchase.
- Earn unlimited double miles on every purchase made; not just travel purchases.
- This card does not charge foreign transaction fees, so you can have peace of mind while using it internationally.
- Flexible miles that can be redeemed with travel partners if you choose – otherwise, just erase your travel purchases by redeeming your miles to cover their cost.
- Having airline transfer partners has been a great improvement to this card, however, the partners included are not necessarily the most common.
Why we like it
This card rewards your for your travel purchases plus dining purchases, and it doesn't charge any foreign transaction fees to it's great for traveling both near and far. Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠, making the value of the rewards a great deal. Lastly, with up to $300 annually in travel credit reimbursement, largely offsetting the annual fee should be a piece of cake for frequent travelers.
This card rewards your for your travel purchases plus dining purchases, and it doesn't charge any foreign transaction fees to it's great for traveling both near and far. Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠, making the value of the rewards a great deal. Lastly, with up to $300 annually in travel credit reimbursement, largely offsetting the annual fee should be a piece of cake for frequent travelers.
- The everyday points earning with this card is excellent with three points per $1 spent on dining and on travel that isn't eligible for the annual $300 travel statement credit reimbursement and one point per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, there's extra earning possible for travel booked through Chase Travel.
- The travel perks that come with this card are numerous including up to $300 in statement credits to cover travel purchases made each account anniversary year.
- The bonus points earned with the card are extremely valuable and can be redeemed for 50% more when you redeem them through Chase Travel as well as being transferable at a 1:1 rate to a number of airport and hotel loyalty programs.
- As a card geared heavily towards frequent travelers, if you are not someone who travels often the cost of this card can be difficult to justify.
- This card charges a fee for each authorized user you add to the account, so that's something to keep in mind if you are considering adding authorized users.
Why we like it
In addition to covering the cost of your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership, this card makes traveling more comfortable thanks to a number of additional travel perks like travel credits and airport lounge access. As far as premium credit cards go, we think the annual fee for this one is well worth the price.
In addition to covering the cost of your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership, this card makes traveling more comfortable thanks to a number of additional travel perks like travel credits and airport lounge access. As far as premium credit cards go, we think the annual fee for this one is well worth the price.
- Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection.
- The $300 annual credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel can significantly offset the cost of the annual fee.
- Enjoy complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and the Partner Lounge Network.
- The rewards offering is great, but to really get the most value out of earning rewards, you'll need to book your trips through Capital One Travel.
- The annual fee for this card isn't too daunting considering the numerous perks that come with the card, but still, you should consider if you'll utilize the card's perks enough to offset the annual fee before you make any final decisions.
Why we like it
If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards client you can earn a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase made making the rewards this card offers an incredible value. Plus, the annual fee is quite low for a card that offers Global Entry/TSA Precheck reimbursement as a perk.
If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards client you can earn a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase made making the rewards this card offers an incredible value. Plus, the annual fee is quite low for a card that offers Global Entry/TSA Precheck reimbursement as a perk.
- With no foreign transaction fees, you can use this card while traveling abroad without worry.
- One of the best ways to earn additional rewards with this card is if you are a Preferred Rewards client at Bank of America. You can earn 25%-75% more on every purchase depending on your Preferred Rewards tier (tiers are based on total account balances).
- Cardholders enjoy travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
- The points earning on the card for travel is not the best on the market, with two points earned per $1 spent.
- If you are not a Preferred Rewards client at Bank of America, the value of the rewards earned is only okay.
- While redemption of points is straightforward and flexible for travel purchases, there are no travel partners that you can transfer the points to take advantage of specific valuable redemption options.
Why we like it
This card is all about loyalty. If you're a regular American Airlines traveler, you could very well offset the annual fee on this card plus enjoy a number of extra perks like first free checked bags and complimentary access to the Admirals Club. Citi is a CardRatings advertiser
This card is all about loyalty. If you're a regular American Airlines traveler, you could very well offset the annual fee on this card plus enjoy a number of extra perks like first free checked bags and complimentary access to the Admirals Club. Citi is a CardRatings advertiser
- Earn an ongoing four AAdvantage® bonus miles for every dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases and one AAdvantage® bonus mile for every dollar spent on other eligible purchases.
- Access to the Admirals Club for yourself and up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you is one of the best perks of this card.
- The new cardmember welcome bonus could translate to a free flight or two, depending on your travel destination and dates.
- While the points earning with the card is good, you are limited to point redemptions with American Airlines and partner airlines.
- The AnnualFees annual fee is quite high and can be difficult to justify for casual travelers or those who cannot take advantage of the American Airlines specific travel perks.
Why we like it
If you're loyal to a particular airline, you might as well get rewarded for it, right? This card does just that with free checked bags, some lounge access and more.
If you're loyal to a particular airline, you might as well get rewarded for it, right? This card does just that with free checked bags, some lounge access and more.
- With the ability to check your first bag for free this card is great for those who frequently travel on United.
- Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club with two one-time passes each year, awarded each account anniversary.
- With no foreign transaction fees, this card can be a great companion on your next great international adventure.
- If you don’t frequently travel on United, the perks of the card may be harder to justify as you won’t be able to take advantage of the United specific benefits.
- The annual fee, while not the highest in the travel reward category, is still noteworthy and should be considered before deciding to apply for this card.
- The everyday rewards earning with the United card is not the best on the market, so you may be able to maximize your rewards earning with a more general travel rewards credit card.
Why we like it
There are a lot of premium Delta perks offered with this card, including first checked bag free on Delta flights, a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your card, bonus Medallion Qualifying Miles, and of course, Global Entry reimbursement - and more! American Express is a CardRatings advertiser
There are a lot of premium Delta perks offered with this card, including first checked bag free on Delta flights, a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your card, bonus Medallion Qualifying Miles, and of course, Global Entry reimbursement - and more! American Express is a CardRatings advertiser
- Receive a Companion Certificate on a Main Cabin round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply.
- Not only does this card earn bonus rewards on Delta purchases, but it rewards cardholders in other popular categories as well.
- This is a great card to travel internationally with as it doesn't charge fees on foreign transactions.
- The annual fee is a bit steep, so you'll want to be sure you'll utilize all the added benefits of the card to be sure you'll offset the cost of membership.
- As with any co-branded card, this is really best for loyal Delta travelers. If you rarely travel with Delta, you might want to consider another option.
Why we like it
New cardholders can unlock a significant welcome bonus, plus a free annual night and bonus nights on extended point redemptions at IHG properties. This card offers exceptional value for IHG loyalists.
New cardholders can unlock a significant welcome bonus, plus a free annual night and bonus nights on extended point redemptions at IHG properties. This card offers exceptional value for IHG loyalists.
- A signup_reward point bonus earned after spending signup_bonus_spend_amount in the first three months of opening an account is a nice way to start your relationship with this card.
- When rewards points are redeemed for any consecutive four-night stay at an IHG hotel, you get to enjoy another night free with the IHG® card.
- Purchases made at IHG properties have incredible points earning rate of 26 points per dollar spent.
- If you do not frequently stay at IHG hotels, this card can be hard to justify as the everyday points earning is not as good as many general travel rewards credit cards.
- While the AnnualFees annual fee is on the lower end of premium travel rewards credit cards, it is still worth considering.
Why we like it
If you're searching for a luxury hotel experience, this credit card can help you have it - and the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit can help you get there more quickly. The annual fee is steep, but for the right type of traveler, the card's numerous premium benefits easily help to offset the cost.
If you're searching for a luxury hotel experience, this credit card can help you have it - and the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit can help you get there more quickly. The annual fee is steep, but for the right type of traveler, the card's numerous premium benefits easily help to offset the cost.
- After you speed through the security line, wait for your flight in comfort thanks to unlimited airport lounge visits when you enroll in Priority Pass Select membership. Membership offers unlimited access to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights, enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
- Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases, card members are eligible to select an Earned Choice Award benefit. Benefit options include: Five Suite Night Awards, a free night valued at 85K points, and mattress and box spring $1,000 discount from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
- Terms apply. Enrollment may be required for select benefits.
- If you're truly a luxury traveler the annual fee isn't hard to offeset; however, if you don't think you'll utilize the luxury perks that the card offers, this might not be the card for you.
- There are a few nice perks which can help make airline travel more comfortable, but the rewards for this card are largely hotel-based. If you're searching for a luxury airport experience you might want to consider another option.
Why we like it
As a premier luxury card, this card comes loaded with benefits. It offers airport lounge access; a travel concierge service; elite status with partnering hotel brands Marriott and Hilton; up to $200 a year in statement credits to cover incidental airline charges, like baggage fees and in-flight refreshments, charged on the card with a pre-selected airline; and more.
As a premier luxury card, this card comes loaded with benefits. It offers airport lounge access; a travel concierge service; elite status with partnering hotel brands Marriott and Hilton; up to $200 a year in statement credits to cover incidental airline charges, like baggage fees and in-flight refreshments, charged on the card with a pre-selected airline; and more.
- The welcome bonus generous and helps to start membership off on the right foot.
- You stand to earn a lot of points with 5X Membership Rewards points earned on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel.
- The perks that come with this card are numerous and can help to easily offset the annual fee. See the "additional details" tab for full details!
- Unlike typical credit cards, this card allows you to carry a balance for certain charges, but not all.
- The AnnualFees annual fee for this card does certainly come with a lot of value, however this is still one of the most expensive annual fees on the market today. It's important to ensure you're able to offset this cost before submitting an application.
Why we like it
This card comes with a lucrative rewards program, airport lounge access, elite status with select hotel brands, and business platinum travel service. You'll also get up to $200 airline fee credit each year. Enrollment is required for select benefits.
This card comes with a lucrative rewards program, airport lounge access, elite status with select hotel brands, and business platinum travel service. You'll also get up to $200 airline fee credit each year. Enrollment is required for select benefits.
- The welcome bonus for new cardholders is quite generous.
- Get 50% more Membership Rewards points - t hat's an extra half point per dollar - on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more (up to a cap of $2 million of these purchases per calendar year).
- This card does not charge foreign transaction fees so it makes a great international travel companion.
- This card comes with a lot of great perks to help offset it, but there’s no ignoring its sizable AnnualFees annual fee.
- If you are an infrequent traveler, there may be other rewards cards with lower annual fees on the market that better fit your lifestyle.
- The rewards earning categories are high for very specific purchases, but if you are looking for a card with more broad travel rewards points earning you may want to look elsewhere.
Why we like it
There's potential for new cardholders to earn a lot of bonus points, and incentive to hold on to the card long term with 9,000 points earned every account anniversary year. Plus, all points earned with this card count towards the coveted Southwest Companion Pass, which allows a designated companion to fly with you on Southwest flights for free (besides for taxes and fees).
There's potential for new cardholders to earn a lot of bonus points, and incentive to hold on to the card long term with 9,000 points earned every account anniversary year. Plus, all points earned with this card count towards the coveted Southwest Companion Pass, which allows a designated companion to fly with you on Southwest flights for free (besides for taxes and fees).
- The welcome bonus offered to new cardholders is a nice incentive.
- Plus, you are incentivized to hold on to the card moving forward, thanks to 9,000 points earned every account anniversary year.
- Enjoy airline perks like four free upgraded boardings per year and in-flight Wi-Fi credits.
- The AnnualFees annual fee is quite steep for an airline specific rewards card.
- If you do not frequently fly with Southwest, the perks of this card are not as helpful and it might be difficult to offset the annual fee.
Compare the best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck by perks and features
Want to see how our picks for the best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck stack up against each other? Our comparison tool makes it easy to compare up to threetwo cards at a time. Simply select the cards you’re interested in and we’ll automatically display their key perks and features side-by-side. With a quick glance, you can easily identify the card that best suits your needs and preferences.
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Compare the best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck by user ratings
By analyzing real-world user experiences, we have developed a robust rating system that reflects the performance and value of various credit cards based on consumer insights. This chart allows you to easily compare these ratings side-by-side, enabling informed decision-making based on the feedback of actual cardholders.
How did each of our winning cards rate according to you?
CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. Responses were given on a scale of 1-10 and respondents’ ratings were then averaged under broad topics.
How did each of our winning cards rate according to you?
CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. Responses were given on a scale of 1-10 and respondents’ ratings were then averaged under broad topics.
COST EFFECTIVENESS
REWARDS SATISFACTION
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WEBSITE/APP USABILITY
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RECOMMEND TO A FRIEND/COLLEAGUE
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Select a card below to see the results for each card.
Survey methodology: CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. CardRatings’ website analytics from Jan. 1, 2024-Oct. 31, 2024 were used to determine a selection of the most popular cards. Responses to 10 questions were given on a scale of 1-10. For nine of these questions, respondents’ scores were averaged under broad topics. The overall rating represents an average of respondents’ responses to their overall rating of each card. “Cardholder favorite” cards are those scored in the top 10 overall.
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Frequently asked questions
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program available to eligible U.S. citizens which helps to expedite traveler screening through participating TSA security checkpoints. TSA PreCheck travelers do not have to take off shoes, belts, or jackets, or remove electronics or liquids from their bag at participating airports. Membership cost $85 and is valid for five years.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States through the use of automatic kiosks at select airports.
With Global Entry membership, upon international arrival in the United States, you go to these kiosks, present your machine-readable passport or U.S. permanent resident card, have your fingerprints scanned for identity verification, and complete a customs declaration. You’ll then get a receipt and be sent on your way to the baggage claim area.
With a Global Entry membership you’ll automatically be enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program, meaning you’ll have access to the benefits of both programs, through just one enrollment fee and process.
Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which is better?
Global Entry offers exceptional value, as membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck. This eliminates the need for separate applications and interviews, streamlining the process into a single enrollment. By applying for and being approved for Global Entry, you gain access to both programs. Even infrequent international travelers can benefit from the significant time savings.
We further break down how Global Entry and TSA PreCheck compare, as well as answer commonly asked questions about the two programs in our Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck comparison guide.
How to get Global Entry and TSA PreCheck
Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck require online applications and in-person appointments. Global Entry requires a Trusted Traveler Program account and conditional approval before scheduling an interview. TSA PreCheck applicants apply directly online and schedule their appointment immediately. The TSA PreCheck appointment is quick, involving ID verification and fingerprinting. Global Entry interviews are more extensive, requiring your passport and may include questions about your background.
Learn more about how to apply in our Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck comparison guide.
How long does it take to be approved for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?
You’ll typically get your Known Traveler Number quickly after your appointment: immediately after a Global Entry interview, or within a few days for TSA PreCheck. However, due to backlogs, TSA PreCheck can take up to 30 days, and Global Entry can take over 90 days, or even six months. Therefore, if you only travel domestically, apply for TSA PreCheck. If you need Global Entry for international travel, apply well in advance.
Are Global Entry and TSA PreCheck worth it?
Yes, Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are worth it for most travelers. They save significant time in security and customs, reduce hassle by eliminating the need to remove shoes and electronics, and the benefits last for five years.
Should I get Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?
Global Entry provides the best value since it comes with TSA PreCheck as well as the ability to bypass long customs processing lines when entering the country. However, if you never travel internationally and want to receive your Known Traveler Number more quickly, TSA PreCheck might be a better fit for you.
Be aware, though, that if you receive TSA PreCheck membership and want to later upgrade to Global Entry, you’ll have go through the regular Global Entry application process. There is no expedited way for TSA PreCheck members to upgrade their account.
Does Chase Sapphire cover Global Entry?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers reimbursement for Global Entry membership, but the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card does not.
Which credit cards reimburse for Global Entry?
Many travel rewards credit cards offer reimbursement for the Global Entry application fee. These cards often include premium travel benefits and are designed for frequent travelers.
All the cards listed above offer Global Entry application reimbursement as a perk of card membership. Our editors consider these the best credit cards for Global Entry.
Which credit cards pay for TSA PreCheck?
Numerous travel-focused credit cards offer reimbursement for the TSA PreCheck application fee. These cards typically aim to enhance the travel experience and often include other travel-related benefits.
All the cards listed above offer TSA PreCheck application reimbursement as a perk of card membership. Our editors consider these the best credit cards for TSA PreCheck.
Does the Southwest credit card pay for Global Entry?
Yes, Global Entry application reimbursement is a perk of the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card.
Meet the editorial team
Rating methodology: CardRatings’ experts review the fine print, details, perks, rewards and features of hundreds of cards and compare them side-by-side with similar cards. A card that makes an excellent balance transfer card may not make a great cash-back rewards card even though it offers those rewards. While the Best of the Year list is announced annually, that list – and all other “best of” lists on CardRatings – are regularly reviewed and updated as issuers change the terms and features of each card often.
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For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
The information in this article is believed to be accurate as of the date it was written. Please keep in mind that credit card offers change frequently. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this article. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. See the online credit card application for full terms and conditions on offers and rewards. Please verify all terms and conditions of any credit card prior to applying.
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