Applying for Global Entry is about to get more expensive, but some major credit card issuers are stepping up to offset the cost for their cardholders. Citi and Chase have announced increased Global Entry statement credits for select travel rewards cards, just in time for the fee hike set to take effect on October 1.
Citi will raise its Global Entry fee statement credits to $120 every four years for the Citi®/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® and the Citi Prestige® Card. Meanwhile, Chase will do the same for several of its popular cards, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, United℠Explorer Card, and IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card.
The fee increase, from $100 to $120 for a five-year Global Entry membership, was announced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) due to rising operational costs. This change prompted questions about whether card issuers would adjust their benefits to accommodate the higher fee, and Citi and Chase have answered that call.
Global Entry provides travelers with expedited passport control and access to TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security checkpoints. With the fee hike approaching, now is the time for cardholders to take advantage of these enhanced benefits and make the most of their travel rewards cards.
As other credit card issuers may follow suit in adjusting their Global Entry benefits, travelers should stay informed and consider applying for Global Entry before the fee increase in October. With the added convenience and savings offered by these credit card perks, now is a great time to take advantage of Global Entry for smoother international travel experiences.