Best credit cards of current year

Best Global Entry and TSA PreCheck credit cards of December 2024

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck membership can make for a smoother airport experience. CardRatings editors break down the perks and discuss which credit cards waive application fees for cardholders. View More

There are many things to love about traveling, but we think it’s safe to say that waiting in long airport security lines probably isn’t one of them – especially if you’re in a hurry.

Whether you’re the type of person who shows up to the airport three hours early, or you don’t usually arrive until the very last minute, expedited security screening can help reduce traveling-related stress for everyone. There are a few options out there that can help you speed through the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) security lines and through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s international checkpoints with ease, though it’s the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs that are most familiar to many travelers, and it’s application fee reimbursements to these two programs that many credit card issuers offer as a perk to cardholders. Depending on the credit cards you carry in your wallet, you may have access to this bliss for free. We feature some of those credit card options from our partners below. View Less

author Jennifer Doss
Terms apply; see the online credit card application for full terms and conditions of offers and rewards.

List of Winners

  • CardName – Best for Flexible Travel Redemption
  • CardName – Best for Point Redemption Value
  • CardName – Best for Travel Benefits
  • CardName – Best for Bank of America Customers
  • CardName – Best for American Airlines Rewards
  • CardName – Best for United Airlines Rewards
  • CardName – Best for Delta Airlines Rewards
  • CardName – Best for Hotel Rewards
  • CardName – Best for Premium Hotel Benefits
  • CardName – Best for Luxury Travel
  • CardName – Best for Small Businesses
  • CardName – Best for Free Companion Travel

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Cardholder Favorite
editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
75,000 miles Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within three months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel!
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $120 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

Bonus: Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within three months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn unlimited two miles per dollar spent on every purchase, plus earn five miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Additional travel benefits: No foreign transaction fees; redeem your miles - just make your travel purchases and redeem your miles for a statement credit; MasterRental Insurance; and more.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • 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.

CONS:

  • The $95 annual fee is worth keeping in mind.
  • Having airline transfer partners has been a great improvement to this card, however, the partners included are not necessarily the most common.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 83.3 76.0
Rewards Program Satisfaction 8.2 7.7
Customer Service 8.0 7.2
Website/App Usability 8.4 8.2
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.9 7.9
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 8.5 7.2

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
60,000 points Earn 60,000 points – worth $900 in travel through Chase Travel℠, after you spend $4,000 in the first three months
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $120 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

Bonus: Earn an introductory 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of opening an account. Points are worth $900 when redeemed through Chase Travel.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Receive $300 in statement credit each year (based on your account anniversary) to cover travel expenses like airfare and hotels. After earning that reimbursement, earn five points on flights and 10 points on car rentals and hotels booked through Chase Travel. Earn three points per $1 spent on dining and on other travel purchases (after you've earned your annual reimbursement) and one point on all other purchases.

Additional travel benefits: No foreign transaction fees; points are worth 50% more when redeemed through Chase Travel; complimentary airport lounge access after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass Select; special benefits at a variety of top hotels and resorts worldwide such as complimentary room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; auto rental coverage; lost luggage reimbursement; trip delay reimbursement; and more.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • 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.

CONS:

  • As a card geared heavily towards frequent travelers, if you are not someone who frequently travels this card can be much more difficult to justify.
  • If you plan to add an authorized user, the $75 annual fee for each additional user is also quite steep.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 75.6 83.2
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.5 8.2
Customer Service 7.6 8.3
Website/App Usability 7.7 8.3
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.1 8.7
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.3 8.4

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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Cardholder Favorite
editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
75,000 miles Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in the first three months
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $120 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

Bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. Additionally, enjoy 10,000 bonus miles every year, starting on your first account anniversary.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel, and 2X miles on all other purchases.

Additional travel benefits: Receive $300 annual credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel. Additionally, enjoy unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network.

Credited needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • When you pay your monthly wireless bill with your card, your cell phone is protected for the next calendar month. So, you can get reimbursed if your cell phone is stolen or damaged ($50 deductible).
  • $300 annual credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel can significantly offset the cost of the annual fee.
  • If you book a trip and then find a better price, Capital One will match it. Just let them know within 24 hours of booking and they will refund you the difference.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 80.2 71.9
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.7 7.1
Customer Service 7.9 7.4
Website/App Usability 8.5 7.4
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.5 6.9
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 8.2 7.2

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
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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 this Global Entry/TSA Precheck perk.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
60,000 points Earn 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 90 days
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $120 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

Bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points - worth $600 - after you spend at least $4,000 in the first 90 days of opening your account.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn unlimited two points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases. But wait; there's more: If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards client, you can earn 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase made.

Additional travel benefits: No foreign transaction fees; up to $100 in statement credit each year to cover your incidental airline fees; trip delay reimbursement; lost luggage reimbursement; baggage delay insurance; auto rental collision damage waiver; and more.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • 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).
  • The new card member bonus of 60,000 bonus points – worth $600 – after you spend $4,000 in the first 90 days of opening your account is generous.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 78.3 83.1
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.9 8.2
Customer Service 7.8 8.4
Website/App Usability 7.7 8.6
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.1 8.3
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.8 8.3

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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 free checked bags and complimentary access to the Admirals Club. Citi is a CardRatings advertiser

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
70,000 miles Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first three months of account opening.
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 credit once every five years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

Bonus: Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first three months of account opening.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn four AAdvantage® bonus miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn one AAdvantage® bonus mile for every $1 spent on everything else. You earn one Loyalty Point per eligible mile earned with your card.

Additional travel benefits: Plenty, including no foreign transaction fees on purchases and free first checked bags for you and up to eight companions traveling on the same domestic itinerary. Also worth noting: complimentary access to Admirals Club lounges around the globe.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • 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 is quite good.

CONS:

  • 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.
  • The minimum spend requirement of $10,000 to earn the limited time bonus is quite high and may be difficult to reach for many.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 77.4 76.1
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.6 7.7
Customer Service 7.5 7.8
Website/App Usability 8.3 7.7
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.1 7.6
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.7 7.3

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
LTO: 60,000 miles Limited-time Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/Nexus/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Up to $120 for the application fee when you apply for either Global Entry, Nexus TSA PreCheck every four years.

Bonus: Limited-time Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays; and 1x mile on all other purchases

Additional travel benefits: No foreign transaction fees; free first checked bag (a savings up to $160 per round-trip) when you use your card to purchase your ticket; 25% back on United in-flight purchases; two, one-day passes to the United Club each year for your anniversary, and more.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • With the ability to check your first bag for free this card is great for those who frequently travel on United.
  • The new card member bonus is healthy (see the Card Details tab for more) and can certainly help you get well on your way to your dream destination vacation.
  • With no foreign transaction fees, this card can be a great companion on your next great international adventure.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 74.0 75.5
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.2 7.7
Customer Service 7.4 7.7
Website/App Usability 7.6 7.6
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.1 7.9
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.3 6.9

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
60,000 milesEarn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your card. Card members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.

Bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn three miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases and directly at hotels, two miles spent at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, and one mile on all other eligible purchases.

Additional travel benefits: No foreign transaction fees, first checked bag free on Delta flights, a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your account, bonus MQMs and more.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • Receive a Companion Certificate on a Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for round-trip domestic flights and no more than $250 for round-trip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • 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.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Previous Score
Overall Score 81.4 86.2
Rewards Program Satisfaction 8.0 8.7
Customer Service 8.4 8.8
Website/App Usability 8.2 8.5
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.6 8.4
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 8.1 8.3

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
Why We Like It: The welcome offer of 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, is a solid bonus for this card, and the up to 26 points per $1 spent at IHG properties might be unbeatable.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
140,000 bonus pointsEarn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/Nexus/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 ($120 starting 10/1/24) credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus application fee.

Bonus: Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG hotel or resort. Earn 5X points at gas stations and restaurants as well as on travel and 3 points per $1 on all other purchases.

Additional travel benefits: Enjoy a reward night after each account anniversary year at eligible IHG hotels worldwide. Plus, enjoy a reward night when you redeem points for any stay consecutive four-night stay at an IHG hotel; Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a cardholder; IHG Rewards Club Bonus points are redeemable at hotels such as InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Kimpton, EVEN Hotels, Indigo Hotels & Holiday Inn.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months 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 $1 spent.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 79.8 78.2
Rewards Program Satisfaction 8.1 7.8
Customer Service 7.8 8.5
Website/App Usability 7.6 7.6
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.4 8.3
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.9 7.1

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
95K Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first six months of card membership.
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $120 statement credit every four years after you apply for Global Entry or every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership through any Authorized Enrollment Provider for TSA PreCheck when you pay the application fee with an eligible card.

Bonus: Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first six months of card membership.

Annual Fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines; 2X points on all other eligible purchases.

Additional travel benefits: The luxury perks offered with this card are numerous. Here's just a taste of what membership offers: As a Marriott Bonvoy Elite member you can earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at participating hotels for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member; Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases, card members are eligible to select an Earned Choice Award benefit; 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; Each calendar year you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status; Priority Pass select enrollment, which gains you unlimited access to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries; cell phone protection; and more. Terms apply. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • 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.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 77.1 74.9
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.7 7.5
Customer Service 7.7 7.5
Website/App Usability 7.9 7.4
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 7.9 7.6
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.5 7.4

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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.

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
80,000 points Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases in the first six months
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $85 credit once every 4.5 years when you use your card to pay your TSA PreCheck application fee (through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider), or $120 credit once every 4 years when you use it for Global Entry application fee. This benefit is also available to additional card members on the account. Additionally, you can receive up to $199 statement credit for your CLEAR® Plus membership (subject to auto-renewal).

Bonus: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn 5X points per $1 spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year); 5X points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com; and one point on other eligible purchases.

Additional travel benefits: Enjoy access to the Global Lounge Collection, the only credit card airport lounge access program that includes proprietary lounge locations around the world; earn a $200 airline fee credit each calendar year to cover things like baggage fees and more at one pre-selected qualifying airline; enjoy Uber VIP status and Uber Cash up to $200 annually; and more. Terms Apply. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • The welcome bonus is solid at 80,000 Membership Rewards points earned once spending $8,000 in the first six months.
  • 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. In fact, the benefits are worth more than $1,400 in your first year.

CONS:

  • 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.
  • With many travel related perks and benefits, for those that do not frequently travel the Platinum Card® can be harder to justify.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 77.1 77.8
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.9 7.7
Customer Service 7.5 8.1
Website/App Usability 7.4 7.8
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.3 7.9
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.4 7.6

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

card_name discontinued_disclaimer 

editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
Why We Like It: This card comes with a lucrative rewards program, airport lounge access, elite status with hotel brands Marriott and Hilton and business platinum travel service. You'll also get a $200 airline fee credit each year. Enrollment required for select benefits

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
150,000 points Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $20,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: This card reimburses you once every 4.5 years for your TSA PreCheck or every 4 years for your Global Entry application fees, and that credit is available to each cardholder on the account so your employees can also take advantage of this offer.

Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $20,000 on eligible purchases within your first three months of card membership.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn five points per $1 spent when booking flights and prepaid hotels booked through the American Express Travel website and one point per $1 on other eligible purchases. Earn an extra half-point (or 1.5 points) per $1 on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more (up to a cap) as well as on eligible purchases with U.S. construction material and hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software and cloud system providers, and shipping providers.

Additional travel benefits: Lots, but here are some worth highlighting: You can earn up to $200 annually in statement credit to cover incidental airline fees – checked bags, in-flight meals, seat upgrades, etc. – on a qualifying airline that you pre-select; no foreign transaction fees; use Membership Rewards Pay with Points for all or part of a flight with your selected qualifying airline, and you can get 35% of the points back, up to 1 million bonus points per calendar year; CardName cardholders are also eligible to enroll in complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status and Hilton Honors Gold status; and more.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • Earning 150,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months of account membership is a generous offer.
  • Get 50% more Membership Rewards points. That'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 to it makes a great international travel companion.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 75.1 80.3
Rewards Program Satisfaction 7.5 8.1
Customer Service 7.4 8.0
Website/App Usability 7.9 7.8
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 7.3 8.1
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 7.6 8.1

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

card_name discontinued_disclaimer 

editor_rating
 
foreign_transaction_fee annual_fees
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).

Read our full CardName review.

Welcome Bonus
80,000 points 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
Annual Fee
AnnualFees
Regular APR
RegAPR
Credit Score
CreditScoreNeeded

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement details: This card reimburses you once every four years for your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees.

Bonus: Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: AnnualFees

Rewards: Earn four points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines purchases; three points on Rapid Rewards hotel and car partner purchases; two points on social media and search engine advertising, and on internet, cable, and phone services; and one point on all other purchases.

Additional travel benefits: Southwest is well-known for their "bags fly free" policy, where there's no cost to check your first two bags. Beyond that, users of this card can enjoy four upgraded boardings per year, inflight WiFi credits, and no foreign transaction fees.

Credit Needed: CreditScoreNeeded

PROS:

  • This card has a great new member bonus of 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
  • You are incentivized to hold on to this card with 9,000 points earned every account anniversary year.
  • Enjoy airline perks like four free upgraded boardings per year and in-flight wi-fi credits.

CONS:

  • 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.
Current Scores Past Scores
Overall Score 82.3 75.2
Rewards Program Satisfaction 8.1 7.5
Customer Service 8.3 7.5
Website/App Usability 8.0 7.6
Likelihood of Continuing to Use 8.5 7.6
Recommend to a Friend/Colleague 8.4 7.5

*Scores above reflect the results of surveys with actual cardholders. Full methodology below.

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At CardRatings.com we discuss the most up-to-date news and trends within the credit card space. Since we first pioneered the concept of online credit card reviews in 1998, our team of financial experts has provided comprehensive and unbiased credit card reviews for more than 175 cards, plus hundreds of additional resource articles to help educate everyday cardholders so they can feel more confident about their card choices. All our content is written and reviewed by industry experts. Though our content may occasionally contain references to products from our partners, we maintain strict editorial integrity and advertiser relationships and compensation never influences ratings, reviews or featured products. The difference between editorial content and advertising must always be clearly stated. Learn more.

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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 $78 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?

Because being a part of the Global Entry program also makes you eligible for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry membership is the best bang for your buck. You’ll get the benefits of both programs all for one enrollment fee and you won’t need to submit applications and interview for both programs. You’ll only need to apply for and interview for Global Entry membership. If approved, you’ll automatically be approved and enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program as well. Even if you only travel internationally once or twice a year, being a part of this program can still save you valuable time. Plus, if you pay for your membership with select credit cards, you don’t have to worry about a fee at all.

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.

What are the best Global Entry and TSA PreCheck credit cards?

The CardName is a great, flexible, flat-rate rewards credit card offering reimbursement for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck membership. Its annual fee is manageable, and it earns two miles per dollar on every purchase made so there’s no need to keep track of bonus caps or category spend, plus it earns five miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. It also offers a number of other great travel benefits such as MasterRental Insurance, and 24-hour travel assistance services. For the price, it’s a hard card to beat. If you’re a serious traveler and would like something with more travel perks, the CardName is another great option to consider. A generous welcome bonus, an annual $300 travel statement credit, complimentary airport lounge access, and the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership application reimbursement more than offset the annual fee the first year, and numerous other travel perks help to offset it moving forward. Plus, with this card, points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, so you stand to quickly rack up a ton of points to put towards future travel.

Business owners may want to consider CardNamediscontinued. In addition to Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership reimbursement, it offers an annual $200 statement credit to cover incidental airline fees, complimentary airport lounge access, and 35% points back when you use Membership Rewards® Pay with Points for all or part of a flight with your selected qualifying airline (up to 1 million bonus points back per calendar year). The card’s numerous travel benefits go a long way in offsetting its annual fee.

Determining the best card for you though will depend on your spending habits. If you spend heavily with United Airlines, you might be better off with the CardName. If you’re loyal to IHG®, the CardName might be the best fit for you. Consider where you spend the most money and choose a card that fits those spending habits. Global Entry or TSA PreCheck reimbursement will just be the cherry on top!

How to get Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck have an application process that includes an online component as well as an in-person appointment.

For Global Entry, you’ll first create a Trusted Traveler Program account through the Department of Homeland Security. With TSA PreCheck, you can simply submit an online application through the Transportation Security Administration without having to set up an account.

Once your account is set up or your application submitted, the next step is to schedule an appointment. For Global Entry, you’ll need to wait for your application to be processed and conditionally approved before scheduling an interview. TSA PreCheck typically prompts applicants to schedule their appointment at the end of their online application.

The TSA PreCheck appointment should only take 10 minutes and includes a review of identification documents, such as a driver’s license and birth certificate, and fingerprinting to be used in a background check. Global Entry interviews require that you bring your passport and may include questions about what you do for a living and why you want to enroll in Global Entry.

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?

Once you reach the appointment phase of the application process, it doesn’t take long to receive your Known Traveler Number.

In fact, you should receive it at the end of your Global Entry interview or within 3-5 days of completing the TSA PreCheck application process and appointment. However, residual delays from the pandemic as well as pent-up travel demand mean it could take as long as 30 days to receive your Known Traveler Number from TSA PreCheck.

Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security has noted that it can take more than 90 days for Global Entry applications to be processed, and some people online say they have been waiting six months or more. For that reason, the government recommends people apply for TSA PreCheck if they generally only travel within the U.S. and don’t have any plans for international travel in the next six months. If you do have international travel plans in your future and want the benefits of Global Entry membership, you’ll want to apply as soon as you can.

Are Global Entry and TSA PreCheck worth it?

Without a doubt. Anyone who has waited in a long security line while watching others breeze through TSA PreCheck without having to remove their shoes or laptop can understand the appeal of these programs.

Even infrequent travelers may find that being able to skip long lines and avoid the hassle of regular security procedures is worth the cost and time involved in the application process. Of course, there is no cost if you have a rewards credit card that will reimburse you the fee. What’s more, your Known Traveler Number is good for five years, and in some cases, you may be able to skip the interview process when renewing your number.

Beyond having access to a shorter TSA PreCheck security lines, Global Entry allows international travelers to skip customs processing lines when re-entering the country. They can use self-serve kiosks instead. They may also have access to expedited customs services in other countries.

Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck passengers don’t have to remove any of the following items from their person or carry-on while going through airport security:

  • Shoes
  • Laptops
  • 3-1-1 liquids
  • Belts
  • Light jackets

If you are a parent, your children, age 12 and under, automatically get access to the TSA PreCheck line along with you.

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 CardName offers reimbursement for Global Entry membership, but the CardName does not.

author
Jennifer Doss
CardRatings Executive Editor

Jennifer Doss is a credit card analyst and the executive editor of CardRatings.com. She has worked as both a print and online journalist and has over a decade of experience in the media industry. Her published work has covered a broad range of topics, from finance and technology to travel and dining. Through extensive travel experiences and her personal interest...Read more


Survey Methodology: CardRatings commissioned Op4G in September 2023 to conduct surveys among 1,869 cardholders nationwide. CardRatings website analytics from Jan. 1, 2023-Aug. 31, 2023 were used to determine a selection of the most popular cards and additional cards were included to add survey breadth. Responses to each of nine questions were given on a scale of 1-10 and respondents’ scores were then averaged under broad topics. To determine the overall score, responses from questions 1-8 were summed and the answer to “How likely are you to recommend this card to a friend, coworker or family member?” was double weighted. “Current Scores” reflect scores from the most recent survey (2023); “Past Scores” reflect scores from the 2022 survey.

Ranking 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.

Disclaimer:

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.

This content is not provided by any company mentioned in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed here are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any such company. CardRatings.com does not review every company or every offer available on the market.