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Travelers seeking a quicker airport experience through U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Trusted Traveler Programs will now have to pay 20% more for the privilege. As of October 1, the cost for applying or renewing participation in programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI has risen from $100 to $120. This change standardizes fees across the board, though minors under 18 whose parents are enrolled in Global Entry are exempt from paying.
The NEXUS program, designed for frequent travel between the U.S. and Canada, saw the most significant increase, with the fee more than doubling from $50 to $120. Global Entry, first launched in 2008, streamlines the customs process for frequent travelers entering the U.S., utilizing dedicated lanes and biometric technology to expedite the process.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the fee hike is essential for maintaining and managing the expanding program, which now serves a growing number of international travelers. Once approved, Global Entry membership lasts five years and can be renewed online.
Despite the price hike, Global Entry and other Trusted Traveler Programs remain popular, particularly with international travelers, including U.S. permanent residents and eligible citizens from 15 other countries like Mexico, Germany, and India. For those looking to save time at U.S. airports, the new fee may be a small price to pay for the convenience offered by these programs.
