Traveling should be exciting, not stressful — but long airport security lines and customs waits can take the fun out of a trip. Programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry speed up the airport experience and let you skip hassles like removing shoes and laptops. While enrollment isn’t free, many travel credit cards reimburse your application fee. The best credit cards for Global Entry or TSA Precheck can also unlock perks like lounge access that make your journey smoother.
| Scenario | LendingTree's recommendation |
|---|---|
| I want the best card overall | Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card |
| I want a card to use for simple rewards | Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card |
| I want the best card for dining and travel | Chase Sapphire Reserve® |
| I want luxury perks | American Express Platinum Card® |
| I want to earn free hotel stays | IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card |
| I want luxury hotel perks | Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card |
| I want an American Airlines card | Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® |
| I want a United Airlines card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
| I want a card with military benefits | PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card |
| I want a Bank of America card | Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card |
| I want a card with no annual fee | Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card |
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® cards. We use an objective rating and ranking system that evaluates over 200 credit cards from more than 50 issuers. All recommendations are made by LendingTree’s editorial team, completely independent of affiliate partnerships or compensation. Every card is selected based on its merit and ability to help people achieve their financial goals. We use the following criteria to make our picks:
We calculate the value of rewards and perks for the average cardholder using Bureau of Labor statistics data and an annual spend of $20,000, minus the annual fee. This value includes the card’s sign-up bonus, annual bonus (including free night certificates) and travel perks like lounge access and travel credits. We look at the average rewards earned over two years to balance out a card’s ongoing value with its first-year value.
We consider how easy the rewards are to use, looking at factors like expiration dates, minimum thresholds to redeem, blackout dates and the availability of flexible redemption options, like travel statement credits and cash back.
We also compare a card’s benefits, such as purchase protections, travel protections and elite status benefits against benefits from other cards.
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
|
Winner
|
$395 | 2X - 10X miles
| 75,000 miles
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
| |
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
|
Everyday spending
|
$95 | 2X - 5X Miles
| 75,000 miles
75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
| |
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
|
Dining and travel
|
$795 | 1X - 8X points
| 125,000 points
Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
| |
American Express Platinum Card®
|
Luxury travel perks
|
$895 | 5X points
| As high as 175,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
| |
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card*
|
Free hotel stays
|
$99 | 3X - 26X points
| 140,000 Bonus Points
Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
| |
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
|
Luxury hotel perks
|
$650 | 2X - 21X points
| 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
| |
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®*
|
American Airlines
|
$595 | 1X point
Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
| 70,000 miles
Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
| |
The New United℠ Explorer Card*
|
United Airlines
|
$150 | 1X - 2X miles
| 60,000 miles
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
| |
PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card*
|
3.1
Military members
|
$95 | 1.5X - 4X points
| 50,000 points
50,000 bonus points when you spend $3,000 in the first 90 days
| |
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
on Bank Of America's secure site |
Bank of America
|
$95 | 1.5X - 2X points
| 60,000 points
60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
|
on Bank Of America's secure site |
Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card*
|
No annual fee
|
$0 | 2% unlimited cash back
Unlimited 2% cash back on everyday purchases
| N/A |
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® every four years
Compared to other premium travel credit cards, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has one of the lowest price tags. And yet it earns valuable transferable miles and offers many luxury travel perks — including Priority Pass™ lounge access, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit up to $120 and a generous travel credit up to $300 for bookings through Capital One Travel.
The $300 travel credit alone can nearly offset the $395 annual fee, getting you lounge access for a very low cost. Add in generous ongoing rewards — at least 2X miles on every purchase and even higher earnings on Capital One travel portal bookings — and it’s easy to see why this card punches well above its weight in the premium travel space.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® every four years
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers. As one of the lowest-priced cards on our list, it’s an easy entry point for beginners. Every purchase earns simple, flexible rewards at a high rate — plus bonus miles on travel. And like its premium sibling, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, you can transfer miles to more than 20 airline and hotel loyalty programs for even greater value.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck®/NEXUS every four years
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is often heralded as the best travel rewards card — for good reason. Cardholders enjoy an annual travel credit up to $300, a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck®/NEXUS credit and Priority Pass™ lounge access, all on top of industry-leading rewards. You’ll earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases.
Yes, the annual fee is steep at $795, but its credits can offset much of the cost. Plus, with the Chase TravelSM portal’s boosted redemptions (up to 100% more value on select bookings) and 1:1 transfers to more than 10 airline and hotel partners, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers unmatched flexibility and outsized rewards potential.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry every four years or up to an $85 credit for TSA PreCheck® every 4.5 years.* Plus, get up to a $209 CLEAR® Plus credit every year (excluding taxes and fees, subject to auto-renewal).
For luxury travelers, the American Express Platinum Card® sets the standard. It offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit*, one of the highest rewards rates on flights and prepaid hotels and even extends the credit to eligible additional cardholders. While the annual fee is steep at $895, the perks more than make up for it.
This card is also unrivaled when it comes to airport lounge access. You’ll enjoy access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection® for eligible card members, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges* and Delta Sky Clubs® (with visit limitations) when flying eligible Delta flights. For frequent flyers, it’s hard to top the card’s blend of rewards and luxury.
“The American Express Platinum Card® basically pays for my patience — Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® keep me breezing through lines so I can spend more time in lounges. The added travel perks make my trips both more enjoyable and less stressful.”
— Megan Greuling, Head of Corporate Communications and SEO at LendingTree
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS every four years
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offers the best chance of scoring hotel award nights of any of the cards that we surveyed. With a large welcome offer, generous earnings on IHG hotels stays and an annual Anniversary Free Night, you can cover at least a few nights with your card each year. Add in up to $120 toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS, and this card helps you get to your next getaway in style.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry every four years or up to $85 credit for TSA PreCheck® every four and a half years (enrollment required)
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a top credit card for Marriott loyalists looking for luxury perks. The Annual Free Night Award’s value* value can offset much of the annual fee, and cardholders also enjoy dining statement credits at eligible restaurants worldwide.
For even more indulgence, the card adds Priority Pass™ Select membership**, plus a property credit for eligible purchases at the Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis when you stay two nights or more. Combined with a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card makes luxury travel feel effortless.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® every four years
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is the ultimate luxury card for American Airlines loyalists. For a $595 annual fee, cardholders receive a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit, plus a complimentary Admirals Club membership valued at up to $850. Add in free checked bags and priority airport access, and this card more than pays for itself if you’re a frequent American Airlines flyer.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck®/NEXUS every four years
Unlike most mid-tier airline cards, The New United℠ Explorer Card stands out by offering a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit. Perfect for United loyalists and Star Alliance flyers, it delivers free first checked bags, priority boarding and two annual United Club passes — all for an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $150.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $120 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® every four years
The PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card is a standout pick for military members seeking TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry benefits. With PenFed Honors Advantage membership — available to active military or qualifying checking account holders — the annual fee is waived. That means you can enjoy Global Entry/TSA PreCheck, airport lounge access and premium travel perks without paying an annual fee.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $100 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® every four years
The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is a natural fit for existing Bank of America customers. As part of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards® program, it boosts your earnings with a 25% to 75% rewards bonus based on your account balances. Plus, the $95 annual fee is easily offset with perks like a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® credit and an annual airline incidental credit up to $100 — making this card both rewarding and practical.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years
The Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card is one of the few credit cards that offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit with no annual fee. You’ll need a Fidelity account to apply, but in return, you get a top-tier cash back card with unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase. Add in solid travel perks — like no foreign transaction fees and an Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver up to $75,000 — and this card delivers outsized value at zero cost.
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and NEXUS are three of five Trusted Traveler Programs offered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The best option for you depends on where you travel.
| Global Entry | TSA PreCheck | NEXUS | CLEAR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Available for | U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents and citizens of select countries | U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and U.S. lawful permanent residents | U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents, plus Canadian and Mexicans who meet requirements | U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents and citizens of select countries, Canadian citizens |
| Best for | International travel | Domestic travel | Traveling to Canada | International and domestic travel |
| Reduces waiting time in airport security | ||||
| Includes TSA PreCheck benefits | ||||
| Kids included in membership | 18 years or younger are free but require an application with parental consent | 17 and younger are eligible with an enrolled parent | Kids under 17 join free with an adult | |
| Enrollment center locations | 90+ | 1,200+ | 8 (in Canada) | 50+ |
| Valid for | Five years | Five years | Five years | One year |
| Cost | $120 | $76.75 to $85 | $120 | $209 |
| Reduces time waiting in customs |
→ Check out our comparison of CLEAR vs. TSA PreCheck
Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck require an online application and an in-person interview at an enrollment center. From application to approval, TSA PreCheck is usually faster, while Global Entry takes longer since an in-person interview is required. Most applicants with clean records are approved quickly. Manual reviews may take a couple months or longer.
Tip: Check regularly for closer interview dates.
Wait times for Global Entry interviews can be long, so if your schedule is flexible and you’d prefer a closer date, check the website daily to see if any spots open up. You can also use paid tools like Get Global Entry or Global Entry Spotter app, which scans the site regularly and texts you about openings.
→ Read LendingTree’s 2025 guide to TSA PreCheck
Tip: Try enrolling on arrival.
Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) lets you complete your Global Entry interview at select U.S. airports when returning from abroad, using your passport or permanent resident card and proof of residency. Another option, Enrollment on Departure (EoD), lets conditionally approved travelers complete the interview before leaving the United States. However, it’s currently available only at Miami (MIA) and Dulles (IAD).
There are more than 90 locations nationwide (including U.S. territories), yet depending on where you live, the nearest option may be a long distance from your home. See where your closest center is below.
Global Entry can take as little as two weeks, but in some cases, it stretches to 24 months, largely depending on interview wait times at local enrollment centers. Wait times can range from same-day availability to a full year. NEXUS applicants face similar delays.
By contrast, TSA PreCheck is typically much faster, with most approvals in three to five days, though some applications may take up to 60 days.
→ Read more about Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck
After you’ve been approved, using Global Entry and TSA PreCheck is simple — but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure everything goes smoothly at the airport:
Yes — for frequent flyers, both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are well worth it. The time savings quickly add up, and if your credit card covers the fee, applying is a no-brainer.
Global Entry costs $120 and includes TSA PreCheck, giving you faster security at U.S. airports plus expedited reentry after international trips. If you mostly travel domestically, TSA PreCheck alone is a smart buy — even for just a couple of trips a year. You’ll skip long security lines and keep your shoes and belt on, with kids under 13 included for free.
For travelers heading to Canada, Global Entry works for air travel, but NEXUS is the better option if you cross the border frequently.
Yes — Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck membership, and so does NEXUS. For travelers who head abroad, Global Entry or NEXUS delivers the most value, combining faster U.S. security screening with expedited international reentry.
Global Entry costs $120 and includes TSA PreCheck ($85 on its own). For international travelers, that makes Global Entry the smarter pick, since you’ll breeze through both U.S. security and customs.
Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are valid for five years. Most credit cards that cover the fee offer reimbursement every four to four-and-a-half years, giving you plenty of time to renew before your membership lapses.
For your interview, bring a valid passport and a second form of ID (such as a driver’s license or state ID). You’ll also need proof of residency — like a utility bill, mortgage or rental statement, or bank statement. Lawful permanent residents must also present their permanent resident card.
Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is the number listed under “PASS ID” in the upper left-hand corner on the back of your Global Entry card.
Most cards apply the credit to both initial applications and renewals (unless stated otherwise in your agreement). Always check your card’s policy on how often the credit is issued before renewing TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Most cards issue the statement credit within one to three billing cycles, though some are faster. For example, Reddit users report seeing the credit within just a few days. Keep in mind you’ll still need to pay the charge upfront and pay your balance as usual to avoid interest or late fees.
To see rates & fees for American Express cards mentioned on this page, visit the links provided below:
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 related to the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, The New United℠ Explorer Card, PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card and Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature® Card has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.