Non-U.S. Citizens and Global Entry: Who Qualifies for TSA PreCheck Benefits?
Discover which foreign travelers can unlock expedited U.S. customs and security with Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, including new 2025 updates.
Expedited U.S. Customs Entry Is Not Just for Americans
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are two of the most sought-after programs for travelers aiming to minimize wait times at U.S. border security and airport checkpoints. Until recently, these programs were mostly seen as perks for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. But due to international agreements, a growing list of countries now allows their own citizens to apply for Global Entry and gain access to TSA PreCheck at over 200 U.S. airports, streamlining their entry into the United States and improving the overall travel experience.
The latest addition to this list is Australia, joining as of 2025, reflecting an expanding commitment to ease travel for low-risk, frequent international visitors.
What Are Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), providing expedited screening for pre-approved, low-risk travelers arriving in the United States. TSA PreCheck is included for all Global Entry members, permitting access to dedicated lanes at airport security with less intrusive screening, such as keeping shoes and belts on and leaving laptops in bags.
Benefits include:
- Faster U.S. customs clearance via kiosks at major airports.
- Expedited security lines at nearly every U.S. airport.
- Reduced paperwork and hassle for frequent travelers.
- Five-year membership for most eligible applicants.
Non-U.S. Countries with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Access
Participating Countries
Eligible nationals from select countries can apply for Global Entry following reciprocal agreements. The current full list is:
| Country | Notes |
|---|---|
| Argentina | Active |
| Australia | Eligible from 2025 (trial/rollout phase) |
| Bahrain | Active |
| Brazil | Active |
| Canada | Eligible via NEXUS program |
| Colombia | Active |
| Croatia | Active |
| Dominican Republic | Active |
| Germany | Active |
| India | Active |
| Japan | Active |
| Mexico | Active |
| Netherlands | Active |
| New Zealand | Active |
| Panama | Active |
| Republic of Korea | Active |
| Singapore | Active |
| Switzerland | Active |
| Taiwan | Active |
| United Arab Emirates | Active |
| United Kingdom | Active |
This roster is regularly updated as bilateral negotiations advance and border arrangements strengthen.
Spotlight: Australia’s Global Entry Debut (2025)
Australia’s inclusion marks a significant update. Beginning in January 2025, up to 1,000 frequent Australian travelers (those entering the U.S. at least five times over the previous year) will have ‘first dibs’ on Global Entry as part of a pilot program. After successful legislative passage, broader access opens for all eligible Australians. This staged rollout reaffirms the close partnership between the two nations.
Additional requirements for Australians include a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission before submitting their application to U.S. authorities. On approval, Australians gain five-year access, with renewal required afterward.
How to Apply for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck as a Non-U.S. Citizen
- Confirm eligibility: Check if your citizenship qualifies under active international agreements.
- Online Application: Submit through the Trusted Traveler Program website.
- Fee payment: Pay the nonrefundable application fee ($100–$120 depending on the current rate and country-specific steps).
- Additional security checks: Some nations require preliminary clearances or background checks, which may incur extra fees or delays.
- Conditional approval and interview: After a background review, schedule an in-person interview with a CBP officer. The ‘Enrollment on Arrival’ service at select U.S. airports allows interviews during entry travel.
- Bring documents: Passport, residential ID, and any specific paperwork required (proof of overseas clearances).
- Activation: Once approved, travelers can immediately use TSA PreCheck lanes and Global Entry kiosks.
For detailed steps per country, consult the CBP website and the relevant international agreement page for additional requirements.
Saving on TSA PreCheck and Global Entry: Credit Card Perks
Travelers can offset the Global Entry application fee by leveraging premium credit cards offering reimbursement:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- United℠ Explorer Card
- Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Many cards offer up to $120 in statement credit, usually every four to five years; check your card’s terms for eligible cycles and benefits.
Mobile Passport Control and Other International Programs
Some foreign travelers already benefit from alternative U.S. border control innovations. Australians (plus citizens of 40 Visa Waiver Program countries) can use Mobile Passport Control, a free app to speed up customs clearance through digital document submission and dedicated lines at over 30 U.S. airports. Unlike Global Entry, no pre-registration is required, but it does not provide TSA PreCheck benefits.
For travelers entering Australia, U.S. citizens age 16+ can use SmartGate lanes by simply presenting their valid U.S. passport at facial recognition kiosks, bypassing manual checks — no advance application or fee necessary.
Comparing the Main Benefits: Global Entry vs. Mobile Passport Control vs. SmartGate
| Program | Eligible Users | Main Benefits | Additional Fee | Includes TSA PreCheck? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global Entry | U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and nationals of select countries | Expedited customs entry, dedicated kiosks, five-year access | $100–$120 (plus possible national background fees) | Yes |
| Mobile Passport Control | U.S. citizens and nationals of 41 Visa Waiver Program countries | App-based customs form, QR code for faster entry at 30+ U.S. airports | No | No |
| SmartGate | U.S. citizens arriving in Australia, age 16+ | Facial recognition at border kiosks, no paperwork, quick entry | No | No |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which countries’ citizens can apply for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?
Citizens of Argentina, Australia (starting in 2025), Bahrain, Brazil, Canada (via NEXUS), Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Panama, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom can apply, subject to international agreement requirements.
Is Global Entry available to all Australians?
Not immediately. Starting January 2025, only frequent travelers will be eligible during the trial phase. Full rollout to all qualifying Australian citizens will follow pending legislative approval.
What is the cost for non-U.S. citizens applying for Global Entry?
The nonrefundable application fee generally ranges between $100–$120, and some countries require additional national clearances with possible extra fees.
Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck privileges?
Yes. All Global Entry members, regardless of citizenship, gain TSA PreCheck access for airport security at over 200 U.S. airports.
Are there alternatives for expedited customs if I am not eligible for Global Entry?
Yes. Mobile Passport Control is available to U.S. citizens and Visa Waiver nation travelers at many U.S. airports, while SmartGate streamlines entry for U.S. citizens into Australia.
Can I apply for Global Entry while outside the U.S.?
Yes, eligible non-U.S. applicants may start online applications and schedule an in-person interview either at select U.S. airports or abroad (limited locations).
How long does Global Entry membership last?
Global Entry grants a five-year membership after initial approval. Renewal requires reapplication and fee payment.
Key Takeaways for International Travelers
- More than 20 countries now permit their citizens to join Global Entry and enjoy TSA PreCheck, provided they meet specific eligibility and additional screening requirements.
- Application processes vary. Australian travelers face added background checks and a phased rollout.
- Credit card benefits can offset the cost of participation for frequent travelers.
- Mobile Passport Control and programs like SmartGate offer alternatives for expedited entry into the U.S. and Australia.
- International expansion signals a more seamless global travel future for trusted, low-risk travelers.
Whether crossing borders for business or leisure, understanding these evolving security and screening opportunities gives international travelers a distinct advantage in navigating today’s airports.
