.png){kind=icon}
Global Entry vs. SENTRI
If you're a frequent traveler looking to save time at borders and airports, Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry and SENTRI can be a game-changer. But which one is right for you?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of Global Entry and SENTRI, highlighting what they offer, how they differ, and which travelers they benefit most.
✈️ What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program designed for international air travelers. It provides:
- 🛬 Expedited entry into the U.S. from international flights
- 🖥️ Self-service kiosks at 75+ major U.S. airports
- ✅ TSA PreCheck included
- 📅 Valid for 5 years
Best for: International air travelers looking to fast-track U.S. customs and security screening.
🚗 What Is SENTRI?
SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) is a CBP program that facilitates faster land border crossings from Mexico into the U.S. It offers:
- 🚙 Dedicated lanes at U.S.–Mexico land borders
- 🛃 Expedited processing at select air and sea ports
- ✅ Includes Global Entry & TSA PreCheck (for U.S. citizens and LPRs only)
- 📅 Valid for 5 years
Best for: Travelers who frequently drive or cross by land from Mexico into the United States.
🔍 Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Global Entry | SENTRI |
|---|---|---|
| 🛬 International Air Travel | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (if U.S. citizen or LPR) |
| 🚗 Land Border from Mexico | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| 🚘 Land Border from Canada | ❌ No | ❌ No (Use NEXUS instead) |
| ✈️ TSA PreCheck Included | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (U.S. citizens & LPRs) |
| 💲 Cost | $100 (5 years) | $122.25 (5 years) |
| 👤 Eligibility | U.S. citizens, LPRs, and select nationals | Anyone (with vetting) |
| 📍 Dedicated Land Lanes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (U.S.–Mexico border) |
| 🧒 Children Need Accounts | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
🤔 Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Global Entry if you:
- Frequently travel by air internationally
- Want faster customs clearance at U.S. airports
- Also want TSA PreCheck included for domestic flights
🚙 Choose SENTRI if you:
- Regularly drive or cross by land from Mexico
- Want access to dedicated land border lanes
- Still want air benefits (if you're a U.S. citizen or LPR)
💡 Important: SENTRI includes Global Entry & TSA PreCheck only for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. If you're not in that category, you’ll get land access only.
Both Global Entry and SENTRI offer incredible convenience, but your choice should depend on how and where you travel most.
- Go Global if you're mainly flying internationally
- Go SENTRI if you're crossing the U.S.–Mexico border often by car