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Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck & Global Entry of June 2024

Erin Hurd

ALSO CONSIDER: Best credit cards of 2024 || Best travel credit cards || Best airline credit cards || Best credit cards for airport lounge access

Airport security can be the least pleasant and most stressful aspect of air travel, which is why even occasional travelers should consider enrolling in the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry trusted traveler programs . These programs let you use expedited security lanes that can significantly reduce your wait time. But they aren't free. It typically costs $78 to apply for TSA PreCheck or $100 for Global Entry. If you have the right credit card, however, you can get the application fee reimbursed.

Some of our picks for the best credit cards that reimburse the application fee for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can be applied for through NerdWallet, and some cannot. Below, you'll find application links for credit cards from our partners, followed by the full list of our picks, as well as information about how these programs work and how your card reimburses you for the fee.

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NerdWallet's credit cards content, including ratings and recommendations, is overseen by a team of writers and editors who specialize in credit cards. Their work has appeared in The Associated Press, USA Today, The New York Times, MarketWatch, MSN, NBC's "Today," ABC's "Good Morning America" and many other national, regional and local media outlets. Each writer and editor follows NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity .

Show summary

NerdWallet's Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck & Global Entry of June 2024

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for Simple travel rewards

Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for Richer rewards for frequent travelers

The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for Luxury travel perks and credits

United℠ Explorer Card : Best for Airline credit card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card : Best for Hotel credit card

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card : Best for Flexible redemption options (or Bank of America® customers)

Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck & Global Entry From Our Partners

Find the right credit card for you..

Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

Simple travel rewards

Richer rewards for frequent travelers, luxury travel perks and credits, airline credit card, hotel credit card, flexible redemption options (or bank of america® customers), full list of editorial picks: best credit cards for tsa precheck and global entry, capital one venture rewards credit card.

Our pick for: Simple travel rewards

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is probably the best-known general-purpose travel credit card, thanks to its ubiquitous advertising. You earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel and 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed at a value of 1 cent apiece for any travel purchase, without the blackout dates and other restrictions of branded hotel and airline cards. The card offers a great sign-up bonus and other worthwhile perks ( see rates and fees ). Read our review.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Our pick for: Richer rewards for frequent travelers

The high annual fee on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® gives many potential applicants pause, but frequent travelers should be able to wring enough value out of this card to more than make up for the cost. Cardholders get bonus rewards (up to 10X) on dining and travel, a fat bonus offer, annual travel credits, airport lounge access, and a 50% boost in point value when redeeming points for travel booked through Chase. Points can also be transferred to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. Read our review. 

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Our pick for: Luxury travel perks and credits

The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a hefty annual fee, but travelers who like to go in style (and aren't afraid to pay for comfort) can more than get their money's worth. Enjoy extensive airport lounge access, hundreds of dollars a year in travel and shopping credits, hotel benefits and more. That's not even getting into the high rewards rate on eligible travel purchases and the rich welcome offer for new cardholders. Read our review.

Truist Enjoy Travel credit card

Our pick for: No annual fee

The rewards on the Truist Enjoy Travel credit card are fairly straightforward and unremarkable — 2X on travel, 1X elsewhere. What makes this card noteworthy is that it offers a statement credit toward the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry despite having a $0 annual fee. Read our review.

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Our pick for: Flexible redemption options (or Bank of America® customers)

Like some other travel cards at its price point, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card gives you bonus rewards on travel and dining. But you also earn a higher rate on "other" spending than many competing cards offer. There's a great sign-up bonus and some other good perks. And if you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® customer, your rewards get even better. Read our review.

United℠ Explorer Card

Our pick for: Airline credit card

The United℠ Explorer Card earns bonus rewards not only on spending with United Airlines but also at restaurants and on eligible hotel stays. And the perks are outstanding for a basic airline card — a free checked bag, priority boarding, lounge passes and more. Read our review.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

Our pick for: Hotel credit card

If you stay at the brands of InterContinental Hotel Group, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card can be well worth its annual fee for the free anniversary night alone, and you’ll enjoy Platinum Elite status as long as you have the card. Read our review.

OTHER RESOURCES

Credit cards that pay for tsa precheck and global entry.

Dozens of cards reimburse the application fee for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, usually by providing a credit on your statement when the fee is charged to your card. Some cards specifically allow you to redeem rewards points toward the fee. Here are some of the most popular consumer credit cards with a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry benefit.

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry

Credit cards that offer a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry benefit will typically reimburse you for the application fee for either program, but not both. Whichever fee hits your card, that's the one that will be reimbursed, and that starts the clock on when you'll next qualify for the benefit.

TSA PreCheck allows you to use expedited security lanes at U.S. airports. Global Entry gives you the same benefits as TSA PreCheck, as well as faster customs screening when you arrive in the U.S. from abroad. Since Global Entry gives you more benefits (and if your credit card is footing the bill either way), it's usually the better bet, especially if you ever travel internationally.

» MORE: TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which is better for you?

What are Clear and Nexus?

Some credit cards offer benefits for trusted traveler programs besides (or in addition to) TSA PreCheck and Global Entry:

Clear gets you through security faster at more than 40 airports in the United States. It lets you quickly access identification documents and verify your identity by scanning your fingerprints or eyes. This process allows you to skip the TSA ID check and go directly to security. Cost starts at $189 for a standard annual membership.

Nexus , a joint program of the U.S. and Canadian governments, allows travelers to go back and forth between the countries more easily. Cost is $50 for five years.

How to apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

For tsa precheck.

Getting a credit card that reimburses your application fee is the easy first step. Once you have your card, submit your online application  for TSA PreCheck. Then, you’ll be directed to schedule an in-person appointment at a TSA Enrollment Center , where you’ll spend about 10 minutes undergoing a background check and fingerprinting. You can expect a decision on your application within about three to five days, though some applications can take up to 60 days.

Upon approval, you'll receive a “known traveler” number, which you’ll need to enter when you book a flight. Using your “known traveler” number will likely earn you the TSA PreCheck logo on your boarding pass. And with that, you can enter the expedited TSA PreCheck line.

Note that TSA uses unpredictable security measures, and having TSA PreCheck approval is not a guarantee that you can access the PreCheck line.

“All travelers will be screened, and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening,” according to a statement from the TSA.

For Global Entry

Global Entry includes the perks of TSA PreCheck — plus a bit more. You get an expedited customs line upon landing in the U.S. In most cases, you’ll simply scan your passport or U.S. permanent resident card at a Global Entry kiosk, complete the customs declaration form, scan your fingerprints and move along.

To get started,  apply for Global Entry online ; you’ll likely receive conditional approval. After that, you’ll need to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center  (typically located at a U.S. international airport, though some virtual appointments are available, too).

It can be tough to find available appointments, so be flexible with your schedule — and check back often if there’s no availability.

What else you need to know

How credit cards reimburse the fee for tsa precheck or global entry.

If your card offers a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry benefit, you must pay the application fee with that card. The charge on your card will later be reimbursed as a statement credit. You'll only be reimbursed for the first program fee charged to the card.

If you use a form of payment other than your qualifying credit card, you won’t be reimbursed for the fee.

How often you get the TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit

Upon approval, membership in these trusted traveler programs lasts for five years and must be renewed (for another fee). The frequency with which credit cards reimburse those fees varies by card. In many cases, cards offer the benefit every four years, giving you plenty of time to renew before your membership expires. Other cards only reimburse the fee every five years. Pay close attention to how your membership expiration date lines up with your card benefits. In some cases, you may need to delay renewal or use a different credit card with these benefits to get your fee renewal reimbursed.

Paying the fee doesn't guarantee approval for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

Using the benefit on your credit card when you apply for trusted traveler programs just means that the cost of the application fee will be refunded to you on a later statement. It doesn't guarantee that you'll actually be approved for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. You still have to go through the programs' background and security checks. Like anyone else applying for these programs, you could apply, pay the fee and be rejected.

If you want a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit card …

Getting approved TSA PreCheck or Global Entry isn’t the easiest process, and it isn't cheap. To save on the fee, you’ll first need a credit card that offers a statement credit. From there, you’ll be able to apply to the government’s expedited security clearance programs essentially for free.

While the whole process can certainly feel painful, you’ll be grateful once you see that long line for regular security and know you can bypass it.

NerdWallet's Claire Tsosie and Sally French contributed to this article.

To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card , see this page .

Last updated on June 5 , 2024

Methodology

NerdWallet's credit cards team selects the best credit cards in each category based on overall consumer value. Factors in our evaluation include fees, promotional and ongoing APRs, and sign-up bonuses; for rewards cards, we consider earning and redemption rates, redemption options and redemption difficulty. A single card is eligible to be chosen as among the "best" in multiple categories. Learn how NerdWallet rates credit cards.

Frequently asked questions

Credit cards that reimburse the application fee for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry usually charge an annual fee. A notable exception is the Truist Enjoy Travel credit card . The spending rewards on this card aren't spectacular, but the fee reimbursement gives it significant value all by itself.

Meanwhile, some cards with a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry benefit might waive the annual fee in the first year. As of November 2022, for example, the United℠ Explorer Card had an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $95.

If you have the right credit card, you can essentially get TSA PreCheck or Global Entry for free. It typically costs $85 to apply for TSA PreCheck and $100 for Global Entry. Dozens of travel credit cards come with a benefit that reimburses that cost when you use the card to pay the fee. The reimbursement usually appears as a credit on your statement.

Keep in mind that these cards don't guarantee that you'll be approved for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. You still have to go through the program's background and security checks, and you could be rejected. But the statement credit means it ultimately won't cost you anything to apply.

Not only can you pay for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry with a credit card, doing so could save you the cost of the application fee. Multiple credit cards — including general-purpose travel cards and airline- and hotel-branded cards — provide a credit to offset the fee. The credit usually renews every four to five years.

Several cards issued by American Express — but not all AmEx cards — offer a reimbursement for the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Cards that do provide a reimbursement include The Platinum Card® from American Express , the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card , as well as the small-business versions of those cards. Terms apply.

Several credit cards issued by Chase — but not all Chase cards — offer a reimbursement for the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Cards that do provide a reimbursement include the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , as well as select United Airlines credit cards.

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Full List of 30+ Credit Cards That Come With a Global Entry Credit [2024]

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Full List of 30+ Credit Cards That Come With a Global Entry Credit [2024]

Table of Contents

What is global entry, credit cards that cover the cost of global entry, our top pick for the best card that offers a global entry credit, final thoughts.

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You’ve probably seen them at the airport before… people who whisk through airport security and customs, like George Clooney in “Up In The Air,” before you can even finish taking your shoes off. How do they do it? They aren’t celebrities, or even airline employees — more likely than not they’re just taking advantage of a government program called Global Entry.

In this post, we will show you what Global Entry is, why any traveler who values their time should want it, and better yet how you can get it paid for by using a travel rewards credit card.

Global Entry is one of 5 Trusted Traveler Programs offered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. When you have Global Entry, you get an expedited immigration and customs security screening process when returning to the U.S. from any international travel.

To apply for Global Entry, you need to pay a $100 application fee, fill out and submit your application, and then have an interview at your local Global Entry enrollment center. Once you’re approved, your membership is good for a period of 5 years.

With Global Entry, instead of waiting in a long line with everyone else waiting to clear customs, you’ll head to an expedited section with a special kiosk where you will scan your passport, have your photo taken, verify your identity, and receive a printed form confirming your information. From there you can jump to the front of the customs line, answer any questions the agent has, and be on your way.

Instead of waiting in line with hundreds of people for an hour or more, you can be through the entire customs process in as few as 5 minutes. As if that weren’t enough, Global Entry includes a TSA PreCheck membership , giving you expedited security screening when on flights from within or departing from the U.S. According to the TSA , 94% of TSA PreCheck members wait less than 5 minutes during screening.

So if you’re looking for a way to improve your overall airport experience by spending significantly less time waiting in line, getting a Global Entry membership is a great way to do just that.

When it comes to credit cards that offer a Global Entry credit, you have over 30 options to choose from!

We’ll first detail a summary of our favorite cards, each offering a $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years. Then we’ll break down every credit card that offers a Global Entry credit, by credit issuer, to help you determine which card is the best option for you.

Our Favorite Cards That Offer Global Entry

American express, the platinum card ® from american express (top pick).

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with  no credit score impact.

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
  • $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card ® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: CLEAR ® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck ® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck ® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

American Express Membership Rewards

Global Entry Benefit: Up to $100 statement credit every 4 years

Card Earnings:

  • 5x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines or with AmexTravel.com
  • 5x points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
  • 1x point per $1 on all other purchases

Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card can be a great option for those seeking additional ways to obtain a higher level of status — or to maintain their current status — with the airline.

A key feature of this card is the ability to earn bonus Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning a handful of valuable benefits with the airline.

  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta purchases
  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases made directly with hotels
  • 2x SkyMiles per $1 spent at restaurants (including takeout and delivery) and U.S. supermarkets
  • $350 annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
  • Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Receive $2,500 Medallion ® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Earn $1 Medallion ® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
  • Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Receive Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ® : Receive $100 back for Global Entry or up to $85 back for TSA PreCheck ® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $350 Annual Fee.
  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

  • 3x miles per $1 on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels
  • 2x miles per $1 at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets
  • 1x mile per $1 all other eligible purchases

Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card

Between great perks and the potential to earn plenty of SkyMiles, this card is a must-have for frequent Delta travelers.

As a small business owner and frequent Delta flyer, the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card is your go-to credit card.

You like knowing you’re earning 3x SkyMiles per dollar for purchases with Delta; benefits like no foreign transaction fees, priority boarding, and a free checked bag for each flight only sweeten the deal ( rates & fees ).

Plus, you can redeem your SkyMiles for travel on Delta and its partner airlines, saving you money. It’s a no-brainer!

  • Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta and hotel purchases
  • 1.5x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases of $5,000 or more, up to 50,000 additional SkyMiles per calendar year
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 65,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Enjoy a Companion Certificate each year after renewal of your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Earn 1.5X miles* on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. Terms and miles cap apply. *If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply.
  • Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion ® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $20 of purchases with your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card Members save 15% when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • With the $120 Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
  • Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members. Ticket must be purchased on or after February 1, 2024 to be eligible to receive a complimentary upgrade.
  • Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $200 after using your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
  • Terms and limitations apply.
  • APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

  • 3x miles per $1 on Delta purchases and eligible hotel purchases
  • 1.5x miles per $1 on purchases of $5,000 or more
  • 1x mile per $1 everywhere else

Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
  • 1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases
  • Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.
  • $650 annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • No bonus categories other than Delta purchases
  • Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Reserve your piece of history with the new limited edition Boeing 747 Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card design.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club ® and bring up to two guests or immediate family members at a rate of $50 per person per visit when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Receive four Delta Sky Club ® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly together on Delta. After that, you may bring up to two guests at a per-visit rate of $50 per person, per location.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion ® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Earn $1 Medallion ® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+ ® , or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • $240 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • $650 Annual Fee.

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

  • 3x miles per $1 on Delta purchases
  • 1x mile per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card is a premium card option for small business owners who are both frequent travelers and Delta loyalists.

While the annual fee may be steep, the card comes loaded with perks and benefits that all frequent Delta flyers are sure to love. Let’s take a look at what makes the card unique, and why it may be a great fit for your wallet.

  • 3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
  • 1.5x miles per dollar on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and office supply stores, plus all eligible purchases after you spend $150,000 in a year
  • High annual fee
  • Does not earn many miles for purchases outside of Delta spend
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Reserve your piece of history with the new limited edition Boeing 747 Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card design.
  • Enter Delta Sky Club ® at no cost. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
  • Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion ® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card.
  • With the $240 Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
  • Save 15% when booking Award Travel on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
  • As a benefit of Card Membership, you can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $60 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $240 per round-trip flight.
  • When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion ® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion ® Studio Partner.
  • Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $250  after using your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
  • Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel overseas.

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

  • 1x mile per $1 on all purchases
  • 1.5x miles per $1 on all purchases after spending $150,000 on the card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card  is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy   program
  • 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
  • Steep annual fee of $650 ( rates and fees )
  • 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card
  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy ® . 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy ® . Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. 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.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ® : Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck ® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy ® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits 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. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Marriott Bonvoy

  • 6x points per $1 on Marriott stays
  • 3x points per $1 at U.S. restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges , along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 150,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

  • 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
  • Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
  • Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
  • High annual fee of $695 ( rates & fees )
  • Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards ® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card ® , here.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
  • $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR ® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card ® .
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • APR: 19.49% - 28.49% Variable

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 150,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

  • 5x points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com
  • 1.5x points per $1 on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (up to $2 million in purchases per calendar year)

Bank of America

Bank of america ® premium rewards ® credit card.

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is a great travel rewards card for those looking for a simple approach to earning and redeeming rewards.

The Bank of America ® Premium Rewards ® credit card  is a great option for anyone looking for a travel rewards card with a simple approach to how you earn and redeem your rewards.

From travel and purchase protections to airline incidental and Global Entry credits, there is plenty to love about the Bank of America Premium Rewards card.

Plus, those that hold status in the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program can get even more value from the card by boosting their rewards by 25% to 75%!

  • 2x points per $1 on travel and dining purchases
  • 1.5x points per $1 on all other purchases
  • Up to $100 annual airline incidental statement credit
  • $95 annual fee
  • Points are worth a fixed 1 cent per point, so it isn’t possible to get outsized redemptions via airline and hotel transfer partners
  • Receive 60,000 online bonus points – a $600 value – after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • No limit to the points you can earn and your points don’t expire.
  • Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America ® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill ® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck ® /Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Low $95 annual fee.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
  • APR: 20.24% - 27.24% Variable

Annual Fee: $95

  • 2x points per $1 on all travel and dining purchases

Mastercard ® Black Card™

Global Entry Benefit: $100 statement credit every 4 years

Annual Fee: $495

  • 1x point per $1 on all purchases

Mastercard ® Gold Card™

Annual Fee: $995

Capital One

Capital one spark miles for business.

Capital One Spark Miles for Business

The Capital One Spark Miles card is a low-annual-fee business card that earns 2x transferable miles on every $1 you spend. (Information collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One.)

The Capital One Spark Miles for Business is a great option for business owners looking for an uncomplicated rewards card that earns double miles on every purchase they make and offers access to transfer partners, all for a low annual fee.

  • Unlimited 2x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
  • 5x miles per $1 spent on hotel and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 2 complimentary visits to a Capital One Lounge per year
  • Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, $95 after that
  • Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles – equal to $500 in travel – once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won’t expire for the life of the account
  • Unlimited 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
  • Skip the lines with up to a $100 statement credit on TSA PreCheck ® or Global Entry
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year; $95 after that
  • Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases
  • APR: 26.24% (Variable)

Capital One Miles

  • 5x miles per $1 on hotel and rental car bookings through  Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Capital One Venture Rewards Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card   is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

  • 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
  • $95 annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • Limited elite benefits
  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
  • 5x miles per $1 on hotel and rental car bookings through Capital One Travel

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

  • 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 5x miles per $1 on flights purchased through Capital One Travel
  • $395 annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 5x miles per $1 on flights booked through Capital One Travel

Chase Sapphire Reserve ®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

  • 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
  • 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
  • 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
  • $550 annual fee
  • Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Member FDIC
  • APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable

Chase Ultimate Rewards

  • 10x total points on hotels and car rentals if purchased through Chase Travel
  • 5x points on air travel if purchased through Chase Travel
  • 3x points on all other travel
  • 1x point on all other purchases

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The perfect card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Platinum Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

If you regularly visit IHG hotels throughout the year, then the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is probably a perfect card to have in your wallet.

The IHG Premier card offers a great bundle of perks and benefits, including automatic Platinum elite status, an annual free night certificate, and travel protections.

  • Up to 26x points per $1 on IHG stays
  • 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants
  • 3x points per $1 on all other purchases
  • $99 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable points
  • Earn 140,000 Bonus Points
  • Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG ® hotel stay.
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck ® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
  • IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental ® , Crowne Plaza ® , Kimpton ® , EVEN ® Hotels, Indigo ® Hotels & Holiday Inn ®
  • APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
  • Up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG hotel
  • 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, gas stations, and restaurants
  • 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

The IHG Premier Business card is the perfect option for business travelers who regularly stay at IHG hotels.

IHG Rewards and Chase have teamed up to offer the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Card, a compelling option for those who travel often for their business and stay at IHG hotels.

In this review, we will cover all of the benefits of the card, including earning rates, perks, fees, and more to help you determine whether the card is a good fit for your travel goals.

  • Up to 26x total points per $1 spent on IHG Hotels and Resorts
  • 5x points per $1 spent on travel, at gas stations, select advertising, and restaurants
  • 3x points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • $99 annual fee
  • Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels and Resorts
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, select advertising, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier Business cardmember
  • IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at hotels such as InterContinental ® , Crowne Plaza ® , Kimpton ® , EVEN ® Hotels, Indigo ® Hotels & Holiday Inn ®
  • 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, gas stations, restaurants, and select business purchases

Aeroplan ® Credit Card

Aeroplan® Credit Card

The Aeroplan card is a great option for Air Canada flyers looking to earn more points and receive automatic elite status.

Flyers based in the U.S. may think they wouldn’t have a need for a card like the Aeroplan ® Credit Card , it might be much better suited for you than you think.

Not only does Air Canada offer fantastic award redemptions, but adding the card to your wallet makes the program even more rewarding by offering elite status, more points, travel coverage, and more. Let’s take a closer look and see why the Aeroplan card might make a lot of sense for you.

  • 3x points per $1 on Air Canada purchases, at grocery stores, and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
  • 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month (up to a maximum of 1,500 bonus points)
  • Receive Aeroplan 25K status for the remainder of the calendar year, plus the following calendar year, and continue to extend it beyond that by spending $15,000 on the card per calendar year
  • Earn 70,000 bonus points
  • Earn 70,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
  • $95 Annual Fee
  • Redeem points for both international and domestic flights with the Aeroplan ® Credit Card.
  • Fly to another continent and travel the world with the Aeroplan ® Credit Card.
  • Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
  • 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month - up to 1,500 points per month.
  • APR: 21.74% - 28.74% Variable
  • 3x points per $1 on dining, grocery stores, and Air Canada
  • 2x points per $1 on purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants
  • 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases

Southwest ® Rapid Rewards ® Performance Business Credit Card

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

Southwest frequent flyers will love the upgraded boarding positions, inflight Wi-Fi credits, and bonus points on each cardmember anniversary.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards ® Performance Business Credit Card is a phenomenal option for business owners who are Southwest frequent flyers. It helps you earn more points on all of your business expenses, offers upgraded boarding certificates and Wi-Fi credits, and helps you reach higher levels of Southwest elite status. 

  • 4x points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases
  • 3x points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases
  • 2x points per $1 spent on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services
  • $199 annual fee
  • Doesn’t earn transferable rewards
  • Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 9,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
  • Earn 4X pts on Southwest ® purchases.
  • Earn 3X points on Rapid Rewards ® hotel and car rental partners.
  • Earn 2X points on rideshare.
  • Earn 2X points on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services and 1X points on all other purchases.
  • 4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available.
  • APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
  • 4x points on Southwest purchases
  • 3x points on Rapid Rewards hotel and car partners
  • 2x points on rideshare, social media and search engine advertising, and internet, cable, and phone services

United Club℠ Infinite Card

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

The United Club℠ Infinite Card  is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club Infinite card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

  • 4x miles per $1 on United purchases
  • 2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
  • Complimentary United Club membership
  • $525 annual fee
  • Earn 80,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
  • Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United ®  purchases
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access ® travel services
  • 10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada
  • Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
  • APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
  • 1x miles per $1 on all other purchases

United℠ Explorer Card

United℠ Explorer Card

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card , because this card does all that and more!

  • 2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
  • 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
  • First checked bag free for you and up to 1 traveling companion
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee
  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United ® purchases
  • Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck ® or NEXUS fee credit
  • 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
  • Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
  • Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

  • 2x miles per $1 on United purchases, restaurants, and hotel stays

United Quest℠ Card

United Quest℠ Card

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

The newest addition to United’s lineup of cards is the United Quest℠ Card . With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.

With an annual fee that falls between the United℠ Explorer Card and United Club℠ Infinite Card , the United Quest card makes for a fantastic card option for United frequent flyers.

  • 3x miles per $1 on United purchases
  • 2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services
  • $125 annual United credit
  • Does not offer airport lounge access
  • Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
  • Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United ® purchases
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and priority boarding
  • Up to a $125 United ® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
  • Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
  • 2x miles per $1 on travel, dining, and streaming services

Citi Prestige ® Card

Hot Tip:  At this time, the Citi Prestige card is no longer available for new applicants.

Global Entry Benefit: $100 statement credit every 5 years

  • 5x points per $1 on airfare and dining purchases
  • 3x points per $1 with hotels and cruise lines

Hot Tip:  While the Citi Prestige card offers you a Global Entry credit every 5 years, which is 1 year less than most cards on the list, Global Entry memberships are valid for 5 years. 

Citi ® /AAdvantage ® Executive World Elite Mastercard ®

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Access to Admirals Clubs, tons of added benefits, and a way to spend towards elite status make this a great option for American Airlines loyalists.

The Citi ® /AAdvantage ® Executive World Elite Mastercard ® is a go-to card thanks to its exclusive perks and benefits for people who love to fly American Airlines. With a complimentary Admirals Club membership, free checked bags, inflight discounts, and the ability to earn Loyalty Points for every $1 you spend, there is plenty to love about the card.

  • Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage ® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening
  • Earn 10 miles per $1 spent on eligible car rentals booked through aa.com/cars
  • Earn 10 miles per $1 spent on eligible hotels booked through aa.com/hotels
  • $595 annual fee
  • Doesn’t earn many miles on all other eligible purchases
  • Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage ® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
  • Admirals Club ® membership for you and access for up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
  • Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage ® mile earned from purchases
  • First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 8 companions traveling with you on the same reservation
  • APR: 21.24% - 29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 

American Airlines AAdvantage Frequent Flyer Program

  • 4x miles per $1 on American Airlines purchases
  • 10x miles per $1 on eligible car rentals booked through aa.com/cars
  • 10x miles per $1 on eligible hotels booked through aa.com/hotels

City National Bank

Crystal ®  visa infinite ® credit card.

Annual Fee: $400

  • 3x points per $1 on travel, transit, and dining purchases

HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard ® Credit Card

Global Entry Benefit: $100 statement credit every 4.5 years

Annual Fee: $395

  • 3x points per $1 on airfare, hotels, and car rentals
  • 2x points per $1 on dining purchases

Navy Federal Credit Union

Navy federal credit union visa signature ® flagship rewards card.

Annual Fee: $49

  • 3x points per $1 on travel
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

PenFed Credit Union

Penfed pathfinder ® rewards visa signature ® card.

  • 3x points per $1 on all travel purchases

Provident Credit Union

Provident world+ travel visa signature card.

Annual Fee: $45, waived the first year

  • 2x points per $1 on all travel purchases

SunTrust Travel Rewards Credit Card

Annual Fee: $89

  • 3% cash-back on travel purchases
  • 2% cash-back on dining purchases
  • 1% cash-back on all other purchases

Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card

Global Entry Benefit: $85 statement credit every 4 years

Annual Fee: $0

  • 2x miles per $1 on airfare, hotels, and car rentals

UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card

  • 3x points per $1 on airfare
  • 2x points per $1 on gas and groceries

SKYPASS Select Visa Signature ® Card

Annual Fee: $450

  • 2x miles per $1 on airfare, car rentals, and hotels

U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite ® Card

  • 5x points per $1 on hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center
  • 3x points per $1 on travel purchases and mobile wallet spending

U.S. Bank FlexPerks ® Gold American Express ®

Annual Fee: $85

  • 5x points per $1 on hotels and car rentals booked directly in the FlexPerks Rewards Center
  • 3x points per $1 at restaurants
  • 2x point per $1 on airfare and at gas stations

Amex Platinum Card

Amex Platinum Upgraded Points LLC 24 Large

Why is the Amex Platinum card our favorite card to use for Global Entry? Because not only does it provide a Global Entry credit, it is also the very best card for airport lounge access by allowing cardholders to visit Centurion Lounges ,  International American Express Centurion Lounges ,  Plaza Premium Lounges ,  Delta Sky Clubs  (when flying Delta same-day), Escape Lounges , select Virgin Clubhouses , select Lufthansa Lounges (when flying Lufthansa same-day), and of course,  Priority Pass lounges  upon enrollment.

Amex Platinum cardholders also get up to $200 annual airline fee credit , up to $200 annual Uber credit , and up to $100 annual Saks Fifth Avenue credit .

Any frequent traveler will love the premium travel perks that come with the Amex Platinum card, which is why it is our top choice!

As you can see, you really have no shortage of options when it comes to cards that will reimburse you for your $78 to $100 Global Entry application fee. If you’re someone who wants an improved airport experience that helps drastically cut down on your wait times when clearing security and clearing customs, then getting Global Entry is the perfect way to do just that.

Better yet, you can have your cake and eat it, too, because holding one of the above credit cards allows you to apply for Global Entry at no additional cost to you!

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa ® or Mastercard ® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Enrollment required through Capital One website or mobile app. Upon enrollment, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024.  Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com ) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier.  Additional terms apply. The information regarding the Mastercard ® Black Card™, Mastercard ® Gold Card™, Expedia ® Rewards Voyager Card from Citi, Crystal ® Visa Infinite ® Credit Card, Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature ® Flagship Rewards Card, Provident World+ Travel Visa Signature Card, SunTrust Travel Rewards Credit Card, Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card, UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card, SKYPASS Select Visa Signature ® Card, U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite ® Card and U.S. Bank FlexPerks ® Gold American Express ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

The information regarding the Bank of America ® Premium Rewards ® credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information for the Citi Prestige ® Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Citi ® /AAdvantage ® Executive World Elite Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the PenFed Pathfinder ® Rewards Visa Signature ® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Information regarding the Capital One Spark Miles for Business was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.   For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® card, click here . For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees for the Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for global entry.

If you are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or citizen of a participating country, then you are eligible to apply for Global Entry.

Applicants may not qualify for Global Entry participation if they:

  • Provide false or incomplete information on the application
  • Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges, including outstanding warrants
  • Have been found in violation of any customs, immigration, or agriculture regulations or laws in any country
  • Are subjects of an investigation by any federal, state or local law enforcement agency
  • Are inadmissible to the U.S. under immigration regulation, including applicants with approved waivers of inadmissibility or parole documentation
  • Cannot satisfy CBP of their low-risk status or meet other program requirements

How much does Global Entry cost?

The application fee for Global Entry is $100.

How can I get a Global Entry membership paid for?

The easiest way is by holding a credit card that offers a $100 Global Entry application credit every 4 to 5 years that you hold the card.

What is the difference between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck gives a traveler expedited security screening for domestic flights, along with international flights departing from a U.S. airport.

Global Entry provides all of the benefits of TSA PreCheck, plus expedited U.S. customs screening when returning to the U.S. from an international destination.

The price of TSA PreCheck is $78, and the price of Global Entry is $100. Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, it almost always makes sense to opt for that program.

Can I use my Global Entry credit for someone else?

Yes, you are allowed to use the Global Entry application credit provided from your credit card for anyone you’d like.

What is the best credit card for Global Entry fees?

Our favorite travel rewards card that provides a Global Entry credit is the Amex Platinum card thanks to all of the premium benefits it offers, like industry-leading airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and annual credits to help offset the card’s annual fee.

Which countries offer Global Entry?

U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of the following countries are eligible for Global Entry membership:

  • United Kingdom
  • South Korea
  • Switzerland
  • Mexican nationals

Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck access?

Yes, a Global Entry membership includes TSA PreCheck, but a TSA PreCheck membership does not include Global Entry.

Because of this, you’ll likely be better off by applying for Global Entry so that you’ll get the benefits of both programs.

How long does it take to get approved for Global Entry?

The entire process, from having your application approved to scheduling your interview, can take anywhere from 2 to 6 months depending on how booked up your local CBP office is with interviews.

To expedite this, you might be eligible for Global Entry Enrollment on Arrival , which allows Global Entry applicants who are conditionally approved to complete their interviews upon arrival into the U.S. at eligible airports. This eliminates the need for you to schedule an interview at a local enrollment center to complete your interview process.

What happens at a Global Entry interview?

The interviews are usually pretty quick and painless, often lasting less than 10 to 15 minutes, but your mileage may vary.

Common questions usually include asking you about items from your application, your previous travel history and future travel plans, along with why you want Global Entry.

Is Global Entry worth it?

If you’re someone who hates waiting in line, values your time, and wants an improved airport experience, then yes getting Global Entry is 100% worth it.

It is even more worth it if you are able to get the application fee paid for just for holding a credit card, making it a win-win scenario!

Is Global Entry a Known Traveler Number?

Yes, your Global Entry number is a Known Traveler Number that you can include on your flight reservations to make sure you receive the TSA PreCheck expedited security benefits when you arrive at the airport.

Is Global Entry a Real ID?

Yes, your Global Entry ID card is considered a Real ID.

How long does a Global Entry membership last?

A Global Entry membership lasts for 5 years.

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About Jarrod West

Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.

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Find the best credit card for you

Get reimbursed for your global entry or tsa precheck application fee with these credit cards, we reviewed dozens of travel cards to find ones that offer global entry and tsa precheck credits, to save you the application fee..

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Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Even if you only fly a few times a year, the hassle of waiting in airport security or customs lines is enough to justify signing up for TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry. These two U.S. government programs are designed to minimize the time spent waiting in queues, which is a pretty nice travel perk.

These programs aren't free, but some travel credit cards will reimburse your application fees. The Global Entry application fee is normally $100 ($120 starting Oct. 1, 2024) and TSA PreCheck costs at least $78. Global Entry is more expensive, but it includes TSA PreCheck benefits. Once you're approved, these memberships are valid for five years.

If you're considering applying for these trusted traveler programs, CNBC Select has rounded up the top travel credit cards that offer Global Entry and/or TSA PreCheck credit.

Best cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

  • Best for authorized users: The Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Best for travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
  • Best for airport lounge access: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
  • Best for dining: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • Best for low annual fee: Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
  • Best for intro annual fee: U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

Best for authorized users

The platinum card® from american express.

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 1X points on all other eligible purchases

Welcome bonus

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.

Regular APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Balance transfer fee

Foreign transaction fee, credit needed.

Excellent/Good

See rates and fees , terms apply.

Read our The Platinum Card® from American Express review .

  • Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $695 annual fee
  • No special financing offers on new purchases

Who's this for? The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a large array of benefits, many of which are also available to authorized users.

Standout benefits: Most credit cards with a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit only reimburse a single cardholder per account. However, with the American Express Platinum Card , you can add The Companion Platinum Card members for no additional fee (see rates and fees ) and each cardholder gets their own Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit.

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for travel rewards

Capital one venture rewards credit card.

5 Miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

N/A for purchases and balance transfers

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Credit needed

Terms apply.

  • 5 miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit up to $100 every 4 years
  • No introductory APR
  • There’s a $95 annual fee

Who's this for? The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers no shortage of travel benefits and rewards.

Standout benefits: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card earns versatile Capital One miles. You'll earn 5X miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 2X miles per dollar spent on all other spending. These rewards can be used to offset travel expenses or transferred to a large number of partner airline and hotel loyalty programs.

Best for airport lounge access

Capital one venture x rewards credit card.

Unlimited 2X miles on all eligible purchases, and 5 Miles per dollar on flights and 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars when booked via Capital One Travel portal

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Foreign transaction fees

Read our Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review.

  • Large welcome bonus
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Up to $100 statement credits for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • High annual fee
  • No introductory 0% APR period

Who's this for? The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a competitive rewards program and luxury perks.

Standout benefits: In addition to rewards and up to $100 in statement credits for either  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® , cardholders also receive airport lounge access. You'll have access to over 1,300 Priority Pass airport lounges, as well as Capital One and Plaza Premium lounges (enrollment required). This benefit extends to authorized users you add to your account. You can add up to four authorized users for no additional fee and they each can enroll in their own Priority Pass membership.

Best for dining

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

22.49% - 29.49% variable

5%, minimum $5

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

  • $300 annual travel credit for travel purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit up to $100 every four years
  • Priority Pass™ Select lounge access at 1,000+ VIP lounges in over 500 cities worldwide
  • Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel via Chase Travel℠
  • Special benefits at The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection
  • Complimentary year of Lyft Pink membership
  • High annual fee, but it can be offset by taking advantage of all the card’s perks
  • Estimated rewards earned after 1 year: $1,469
  • Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $3,346

Rewards totals incorporate the points earned from the welcome bonus

Who's this for? Chase Sapphire Reserve® is enormously popular among travelers for its luxe perks and strong rewards program.

Standout benefits: Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders receive up to $300 in travel credit annually. This simple benefit can offset more than half of this card's annual fee. You'll also receive 3X points on dining, including takeout and delivery and 10X points on Chase Dining purchases. Additionally, Chase will be raising the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee reimbursement from up to $100 to up to $120 starting Oct. 1, 2024, to match the upcoming fee increase.

Best for low annual fee

Bank of america® premium rewards® credit card.

Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Receive 60,000 online bonus points — a $600 value — after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

21.24% - 29.24% variable APR

4% of the amount of each transaction

See our methodology , terms apply.

  • Up to $100 annual airline incidental credit
  • Priority Pass™ Select membership
  • 25% to 75% more points for Preferred Rewards members
  • No fee charged on purchases made outside the U.S.
  • $95 annual fee

Information about the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

Who's this for? The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is a great choice for people who have a qualifying relationship with the bank because you can earn increased rewards.

Standout benefits: All cardholders earn 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. However, Preferred Rewards members earn 25% to 75% more points on every purchase, depending on the balance in your Bank of America® banking and/or eligible Merrill accounts. If you qualify for the highest tier — Platinum Honors, which requires a minimum $100,000 three-month average combined balance — you could earn up to 3.5 points for every $1 you spend on travel and dining purchases and up to 2.62 points for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.

Best for intro annual fee

U.s. bank altitude® connect visa signature® card.

5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 4X points on travel, gas stations, and EV charging stations through September 8, 2024, after that 4X on your first $1,000 each quarter (wholesale clubs and discount stores/supercenters excluded), 2X on dining, streaming services and at grocery stores (discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs excluded effective September 9, 2024), 1X point on all other eligible purchases

Earn 50,000 bonus points when you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening. That's a $500 value redeemable towards travel and more.

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, $95 thereafter

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Either 3% of the amount of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater

See  rates and fees , terms apply.

  • Excellent rewards rate for travel
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit
  • No transfer partners
  • Lounge access is limited to four visits per year

Who's this for? If you want to save on your trusted traveler program application fees but hate paying annual fees, the  U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is for you.

Standout benefits:  Cardholders get up to $100 in statement credits toward their  TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry® membership  and a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. However, starting Sept. 9, 2024, this card will have a $0 annual fee while keeping its Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit.

Find the best credit card for you by reviewing offers in our  credit card marketplace  or get personalized offers via  CardMatch™ .

More on our best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

The Platinum Card from American Express is a premium card with robust benefits that are hard to match, including many annual statement credits, entertainment benefits, extensive airport lounge access and elite status perks.

  • 5X points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year)
  • 5X points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
  • 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases

Earn 80,000 points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months of card membership.

$695 (see rates and fees )

Notable perks

If you take advantage of every Amex Platinum statement credit offer, you can receive over $1,500 back every year. These credits include:

  • Up to $200 annual hotel credit for eligible prepaid bookings through Fine Hotels and Resorts or The Hotel Collection
  • Up to $200 annual airline fee credit
  • Up to $300 per calendar year Equinox credit (enrollment required)
  • Up to $100 annual Saks Fifth Avenue credit (up to $50 back twice per year; enrollment required)
  • Up to $189 credit to enroll in CLEAR® Plus (subject to auto-renewal)
  • Up to $240 annual digital entertainment credit (enrollment required)
  • Up to $155 annual Walmart+ credit. (Plus Ups are not eligible. Subject to auto renewal)
  • Airport lounge access, including Delta Sky Clubs and Amex Centurion Lounges
  • Up to $200 annual Uber credit. Benefit renews annually. (Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to only the basic card member)
  • $100 fee credit for Global Entry or up to $85 for TSAPreCheck

You can also enroll to receive Gold elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy, and you'll have access to rental car benefits with Avis, National and Hertz. On top of that, the card comes with comprehensive travel and shopping protections, as well as *cell phone protection . Terms apply.

* Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

[ Return to card summary ]

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers convenient travel benefits for a reasonable annual fee.

  • 5X miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

With the Capital One Venture Rewards card, you can get up to $100 back when you use the card to pay for your  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee. You also won't pay any foreign transaction fees and can take advantage of travel and purchase insurance perks. These protections include extended warranty protection, travel accident insurance and rental car collision damage waiver.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium credit card with a myriad of benefits that help offset the cost.

  • 10X miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel portal
  • 5X miles per dollar on flights booked via Capital One Travel portal
  • 2X miles on all other eligible purchases

Every four years, card members can receive up to $100 in statement credits for either  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® . But this card's real value is available through other benefits. When you book eligible travel through Capital One Travel you'll receive up to $300 in credit every year. In addition, cardholders receive 10,000 bonus miles every card anniversary.

Cardholders (including up to four free authorized users) receive unlimited complimentary visits to Priority Pass airport lounges (enrollment required). This perk includes Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium airport lounges. When you pay for your monthly wireless phone bill with the card, you'll be covered by its cell phone protection for up to $800 per claim ($50 deductible).

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® has everything you could want in a premium travel card, including statement credit offers, airport lounge access and valuable insurance perks.

  • 10X total points per dollar on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase Travel℠*
  • 10X points per dollar on Lyft purchases through March 2025
  • 5X total points per dollar on flights purchased through Chase Travel℠*
  • 3X points per dollar on other travel*
  • 3X points per dollar on dining
  • 1X points per dollar on all other purchases

*After the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually

Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

This card's trusted traveler program application fee credit applies to Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS fee credit (once every four years), and as of Oct. 1, 2024, the credit is increasing to up to $120 to account for the increased Global Entry fee.

Card members also receive up to $300 in annual travel credit, which is easy to earn because it applies to any eligible travel you charge to the card regardless of what site you book through. You'll also have access to an array of ongoing and limited-time benefits such as:

  • Priority Pass airport lounge access
  • Two years of complimentary Lyft Pink All Access membership (worth $199 a year) when activated by Dec. 31, 2024
  • At least 12 months of complimentary DashPass membership when activated by Dec. 31, 2024
  • $5 in DoorDash credit each month through Dec. 31, 2024

The card also has some of the best travel and purchase protections, such as primary rental car collision coverage, trip delay protection , trip interruption/cancellation insurance, baggage delay protection, travel accident insurance and more. It also has no foreign transaction fees.

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is a mid-tier travel card that's especially rewarding for eligible Bank of America customers.

  • 2X points on travel
  • 2X points on dining
  • 1.5X points on all other purchases

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Cardholders can earn an application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck once every four years. You can also receive up to $100 in airline statement credit every year. Eligible purchases are also covered by trip delay insurance, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage insurance and emergency evacuation and transportation protection.

If you qualify for Bank of America's Preferred Rewards program, you can earn 25% to 75% more rewards on every purchase. That means you can earn up to 2.62X points on all purchases if you meet the requirements for the Platinum Honors Tier or higher.

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is an amazingly affordable card with benefits typically only found on more premium cards.

  • 5X points for rental cars and prepaid hotels booked through the Altitude Rewards Center
  • 4X points on travel
  • 4X points at gas stations and EV charging stations through September 8, 2024, after that 4X on your first $1,000 each quarter (wholesale clubs and discount stores/supercenters excluded) 
  • 2X points on streaming services
  • 2X points at grocery stores and on grocery delivery (discount stores/supercenters and wholesale clubs excluded effective September 9, 2024)
  • 1X points on all other purchases

Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 in the first 120 days from account opening.

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 (effective Sept. 9, 2024, the annual fee will be $0)

Cardholders can get reimbursed up to $100 for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application. You'll also receive four free visits to Priority Pass airport lounges each year. Both of these benefits are more commonly associated with credit cards that have much higher annual fees.

The card also has a solid list of travel protections, such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement and a travel accident benefit.

Is Global Entry good for TSA PreCheck?

When you have a Global Entry membership, you also receive TSA PreCheck benefits and can use the TSA PreCheck security lines at the airport.

Can you have both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

Global Entry provides members with expedited customs upon reentry from outside of the U.S. and it also includes TSA PreCheck. TSA PreCheck allows members to use dedicated PreCheck expedited security lanes at the airport, but does not include Global Entry perks.

Is Global Entry more difficult to get than TSA PreCheck

Getting approved for Global Entry is typically more complicated than enrolling in TSA PreCheck. With Global Entry you apply and once you're conditionally approved, you need to schedule an interview to complete the application process.

Bottom line

Many travel credit cards reimburse your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee, and you don't need to shell out a large annual fee to get this benefit. It's generally recommended that you apply for Global Entry rather than TSA PreCheck as it includes all PreCheck benefits and would still be covered by your card's credit.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every credit card review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of credit card products. While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See  our methodology  for more information on how we choose the best travel credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck credits.

Our methodology

To determine which cards offer the best benefits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, CNBC Select analyzed over 250 major credit cards issued through FDIC-insured banks and NCUA-insured credit unions that are widely available in the U.S. We focused only on cards that offer application fee credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. 

We compared each card on a range of features, including rewards (e.g., cash back, points and miles), annual fees, welcome bonuses, introductory and standard APR and balance transfer fees and foreign transaction fees. We also considered additional perks (e.g., ongoing travel or merchant statement credits), cardholder protections (e.g., purchase protection, $0 liability protection and travel insurance), the application process when available (e.g., is there a credit pull or required credit score) and how easy it is to redeem points (e.g., are rewards are tied to a specific brand; if transferable, to how many/which partners, can you redeem for straight cash back).    We also considered CNBC Select audience data when available, such as general demographics and engagement with our content and tools.  

For the cards that offered a rewards program, we considered consumer spending data forecasts from location intelligence firm Esri to determine where U.S. consumers are spending the most money, like on dining and travel. We used this to help determine what bonus categories are most useful for consumers. Since the value of a point or mile varies based on what they can be redeemed for, we also considered things like transferability and the ability to redeem for cash-back. 

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here .

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

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What are TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

Should i get tsa precheck or global entry, how to apply for tsa precheck, how to apply for global entry, should i choose a credit card solely for tsa precheck or global entry, other useful travel perks, how to get the most from your travel card, alternatives to a travel card with tsa precheck and global entry, our methodology.

Why You Can Trust CNET Money

CNET editors independently choose every product and service we cover. Though we can’t review every available financial company or offer, we strive to make comprehensive, rigorous comparisons in order to highlight the best of them. For many of these products and services, we earn a commission. The compensation we receive may impact how products and links appear on our site.

Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry for June 2024

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry could help cut down on the time you spend in the airport.

Jaclyn DeJohn

Jaclyn DeJohn

Jaclyn is a CNET Money editor who relishes the sweet spot between numbers and words. With responsibility for overseeing CNET's credit card coverage, she writes and edits news, reviews and advice. She has experience covering business, personal finance and economics, and previously managed contracts and investments as a real estate agent. Her tech interests include Tesla, SpaceX, The Boring Company and Neuralink.

Evan Zimmer

Staff Writer

Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.

Courtney Johnston

Courtney Johnston

Senior Editor

Courtney Johnston is a senior editor leading the CNET Money team. Passionate about financial literacy and inclusion, she has a decade of experience as a freelance journalist covering policy, financial news, real estate and investing. A New Jersey native, she graduated with an M.A. in English Literature and Professional Writing from the University of Indianapolis, where she also worked as a graduate writing instructor.

Lee Huffman

Lee Huffman

Expert Reviewer

Lee Huffman is a former financial planner and corporate finance manager, but is now a credit card expert. He quit his corporate job to write about early retirement, credit cards, travel, and insurance full-time. Huffman enjoys showing people how to travel more, spend less and live better by taking control of their finances. His work has been featured in Time Magazine, U.S. News and USA Today. He also runs a blog, BaldThoughts.com, where he shares more on credit cards, rewards and deals.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are two programs that help expedite your airport experience. TSA PreCheck offers expedited security screening, so you don’t have to wait in the long general lines. Global Entry has a slightly higher price tag, but comes with TSA benefits, in addition to expedited security screening when returning from an international trip.  The credit cards on this list provide a statement credit for the application fee credit for either program. Consider adding one to your wallet if you find yourself in an airport often.

When choosing the right credit card, consider every aspect of the card, not only its TSA PreCheck or Global Entry capabilities. Match the card’s rewards to your spending habits, and its redemption options with the way you wish to use your points.

If it charges an annual fee, check to see that it fits into your budget. If you’re traveling abroad, check for any foreign transaction fees. Pick the credit card that best fits what you’re looking to get out of it.

If your dad is anything like mine, you likely know the chaos of rushing to the airport at 5 in the morning in a sleepy daze -- six hours early in fear of missing your flight. 

Here’s a potential solution for the worriers in your family: Consider telling them about credit cards that provide complimentary TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership. These programs help expedite the airport experience, getting you through crowded security lines and to your plane faster.

You’ll need to use the card to pay for the program first, and then receive a statement credit for the cost -- either $78 for TSA PreCheck or $100 for Global Entry.

Both travel programs allow you to cut through some of the red tape at the airport and can improve your travel experience. Here’s what they offer and how they differ.

TSA PreCheck costs $78 for five years and offers a dedicated security line to expedite members through. You also don’t have to remove your shoes, belt, laptop, acceptable liquids or jacket as you go through airport security.  Global Entry costs $100 for five years and focuses more on US citizens returning to the States after a trip abroad. It expedites the path through customs for those who are deemed low-risk for security issues. Global Entry clearance also includes clearance for TSA PreCheck, so you get the value of both programs for just $22 more. With both programs, you must be preapproved before heading to the airport.  Read more: Best American Airlines Credit Cards

Which travel credit card is best to choose?

Our pick for the best card for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry is the Capital One Venture Rewards card . It’s an inexpensive option that provides good travel rewards no matter which carrier or hotel you choose and a number of useful perks.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card* strikes the best balance between annual fee, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry Credit and rewards program. The cost is $95 annually, but that fee will be worth it for many travelers. The welcome bonus -- 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on the card in the first three months as a cardholder -- is worth $750 if you redeem it for travel. Meanwhile, the 2x miles rewards rate on all of your purchases is both competitive and simple.

You get up to a $100 credit toward either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry -- but not both (this is the case with all of the picks on this list). You can renew this membership and get a new statement credit every four years.

This card also grants you two visits to Capital One Lounges throughout the year, though these lounges are currently only open at Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) airport. Two more are scheduled to open in 2023, at Denver (DEN) and Washington, DC (IAD).

For more information, see our full review of the  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

Truist Enjoy Travel credit card

The Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card* is a rare card that both offers TSA PreCheck or a Global Entry credit and  has  no annual fee . Since this card is all upside, you could apply purely for the credit, but can also earn rewards on your purchases to redeem for cash back, gift cards or merchandise. While the rewards rates aren’t as strong as other  cash-back credit cards , it’s still a great pick for those looking to skip the lines at airport security.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card* is both the youngest and least expensive of premium travel cards -- those that cost several hundred dollars annually in exchange for more luxurious travel benefits. The annual fee is $395, which you can mostly offset if you can use the $300 annual travel credit you can earn when booking travel through the Capital One Travel portal. A 10,000-mile bonus -- worth $100 toward travel -- is also awarded to you at each account anniversary.

Otherwise, the flat rewards rate and welcome bonus are identical to that of the Capital One Venture card, but you’ll get extra rewards if you book hotels, rental cars or flights through Capital One Travel. Like the other card picks, you can earn a statement credit up to $100 toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every four years, if you use your Venture X card when applying.

For more information, check out our full review of the  Capital One Venture X Credit Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers the best rewards of premium travel credit cards. Though it’s more expensive than the Venture X at $550 annually, the $300 annual statement credit for travel is much more widely applicable since you don’t have to book your travel through Chase in order to earn it.

The welcome bonus and rewards earn you Chase Ultimate Rewards points. You can redeem these points for 50% more than their cash-back value if you redeem them for travel through the Chase Travel portal. So, for instance: The Sapphire Reserve’s welcome bonus earns you 75,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 on the card in the first three months. While this can be redeemed for a statement credit for $750, it’s worth $1,125 when redeemed as travel points through Chase’s portal.

In addition to the up to $100 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every four years, you also get Priority Pass Select membership that lets you visit over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. For more details about the rewards and travel perks, see our full review of the  Chase Sapphire Reserve .

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card from American Express isn’t known for its rewards -- but it makes up for it with its extensive credits, including (you guessed it) a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (Up to $85 every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck or $100 every 4 years for Global Entry). If you can take advantage of some of the other credits, you should be able to make up for the $695 annual fee. Some of the other travel-related credits include:

  • Up to $189 statement credit for CLEAR® Plus membership each year. Whereas TSA PreCheck expedites physical screenings at airports, Clear expedites your document processing by scanning and recognizing your face and eyes. Clear must be renewed every year, which your Platinum Amex will reimburse you for.
  • Unlimited access to participating locations in the Global Lounge Collection for you and up to two guests, depending on the lounge and location.  This includes AmEx Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club Lounges, Priority Pass lounges and more. With over 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries, The Platinum Amex has more access to airport lounges than the other cards on this list.
  • Up to $200 airline fee statement credit per calendar year.  This doesn’t include flight costs themselves, but will cover incidental travel fees on one selected qualifying airline, including things like checked bags and in-flight refreshments.

To read about the other annual credits this card offers, check out our full review of  The Platinum Card from American Express .

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Avoid the headache of long TSA or customs lines

Reach your plane faster

Gain access to travel rewards

Get covered by travel protections

Most cards have an annual fee

Missing credit card payments could damage your credit

Having access to another line of credit could encourage you to overspend

If you can benefit from both programs, you should opt for Global Entry since it also offers you access to TSA PreCheck. However, Global Entry has a stricter approval process, so if you mostly fly domestically and don’t want to deal with additional scrutiny, TSA PreCheck is a better option.

To apply for TSA PreCheck, start by submitting an online application . This should take about five minutes to complete. Once your application is approved, you must schedule an appointment at an enrollment center (locations found within the application). The enrollment center will take your fingerprints for a background check, and the whole process should take about 10 minutes. Once you’re approved for TSA PreCheck, enter your dedicated “Known Traveler Number” to your flight bookings or your frequent flyer accounts to speed through security. Remember, you’ll have to renew your membership every five years, and you’ll want to pay the fee with the right credit card to earn the statement credit.

The application for Global Entry is a little more stringent, but if you’re approved, you’ll also be cleared for TSA PreCheck. It requires a rigorous background check and an in-person interview to be completed at one of 380-plus nationwide enrollment centers. You can complete the interview at some airports upon arrival when returning from an international trip. If you’ve had trouble with the law in any country, you’re unlikely to be approved for this security clearance.

To use the Global Entry feature, visit the designated Global Entry kiosks in applicable airports when returning to the US. These automated kiosks verify your passport, fingerprints and customs documentation. Once verified, the Global Entry member can go to the baggage claim to pick up their luggage and leave. Global Entry membership lasts for five years, and you can submit your renewed application within 365 days of your membership expiration date. Being approved for Global Entry also gives you access to TSA PreCheck. Simply enter your Global Entry member number into the “Known Traveler Number” when booking your flights.

You shouldn’t choose a credit card based solely on one of its perks -- it’s more important that all of its card features benefit you. If you find yourself in airports frequently, this could be a great benefit to have, but if not, this perk won’t mean much to you.

Along with the additional benefits the card offers, its rewards should match how you spend, and it should offer the redemption options you want. That could mean redeeming for past travel expenses or using point transfers to get a greater value from your rewards.

You also want to look out for fees -- if you can’t offset an annual fee with rewards, a welcome bonus or other features, it might not be the right pick for you.

Most travel cards with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry statement credits also come equipped with a number of other useful perks. These perks include airport lounge access to help reduce stress during a layover or travel protections that could save you money in certain unexpected situations.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve, Venture and Venture X, for example, all include an impressive array of travel protections. Luxury travel cards like the Reserve and Venture X also offer annual travel credits that help to offset the premium annual fee.

While a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee credit is a good way to get extra value from your card, it’s not the only way. You’ll also want to use the card’s other perks, too, in order to maximize the value of your card. Many travel cards include benefits like annual travel credits, airport lounge access or priority boarding. If you’re paying an annual fee , you’ll want to be sure you can take full advantage of the card whenever you can.

The other way to ensure you get the greatest value from your card is to use your rewards strategically. That usually means transferring your points to the issuer’s hotel and airline partners. While redeeming for travel can typically ensure you’ll get at least 1 cent per point, you could see a per-point value of 2 cents or more by using point transfers. Also, keep an eye on your membership length, credit expert Lee Huffman cautioned. “Pay attention to how often you can use the credits,” he said. “While many cards have a four-year cycle, others have a 4.5-year or 5-year cycle for these credits. If you aren’t careful, your application fees may not be reimbursed.”

You can apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry on your own without a credit card that can cover the cost of an application. While there is an upfront cost, these memberships break down to $20 or less per year. Even if you travel just once a year, the cost can be well worth it. There are other security clearance programs available for enrollment, like CLEAR or NEXUS. CLEAR is a privately run program that’s more expensive but allows you to bypass the ID verification component altogether, and NEXUS focuses on expediting travel between the US and Canada.

TSA PreCheck costs $78 and lasts for five years. Global Entry costs $100 for a five-year membership.

Some airline credit cards that offer a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit include:

  • Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
  • Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
  • United Club℠ Infinite Card
  • United℠ Explorer Card
  • United Quest℠ Card

Some hotel credit cards that offer a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit include:

  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
  • Choice Privileges Select Mastercard

If you have children who are 12 or younger, they can accompany a parent or guardian through the TSA PreCheck lane at airport security without their own TSA PreCheck membership. Children older than 12 must have their own membership to use the TSA PreCheck lanes.

When it comes to Global Entry, every person who comes through -- regardless of age -- must have a Global Entry membership.

CNET reviews credit cards by exhaustively comparing them across set criteria developed for each major category, including cash-back, welcome bonus, travel rewards and balance transfer. We take into consideration the typical spending behavior of a range of consumer profiles -- with the understanding that everyone’s financial situation is different -- and the designated function of a card.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card from American Express,  click here .

* All information about the Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card have been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

The Best Credit Cards for Free TSA PreCheck and Global Entry in 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us and terms apply to offers listed (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate credit cards to write unbiased product reviews .

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card, U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card, American Express® Green Card. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

Frequent travelers know that having TSA PreCheck or Global Entry makes your airport experience significantly more pleasant. With a TSA PreCheck membership, you'll have access to an expedited security screening line, and Global Entry members can get faster customs screening when they return to the U.S. from abroad. Luckily, many of the best credit cards can get you these benefits for free.

Chase Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 5x points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

22.49% - 29.49% Variable

Earn 75,000 bonus points

Good to Excellent

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel credit can effectively shave $300 off the annual fee if you use it
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong travel insurance
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong bonus rewards on travel and dining
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Very high annual fee

If you're new to rewards credit cards you may want to start elsewhere, but if you know you want to earn Chase points and you spend a lot on travel and dining, the Sapphire Reserve is one of the most rewarding options.

  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Member FDIC

Best Credit Cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

The platinum card® from american express, capital one venture x rewards credit card, capital one venture rewards credit card, chase sapphire reserve®, marriott bonvoy brilliant® american express® card, ihg one rewards premier credit card, united℠ explorer card, citi® / aadvantage® executive world elite mastercard®, delta skymiles® platinum american express card, delta skymiles® reserve american express card, u.s. bank altitude® connect visa signature® card, u.s. bank altitude® reserve visa infinite® card, bank of america® premium rewards® credit card.

Many of the best travel rewards cards — including the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express — will reimburse you for the cost of the Global Entry application (which includes access to TSA PreCheck), or the TSA PreCheck application fee, usually once every four to four and a half years.

And if you already have one of these Trusted Traveler memberships, you can use your card to pay for a friend or family member's application fee and still get reimbursed.

Compare the Best Credit Cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

American Express The Platinum Card® from American Express

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 per calendar year) and on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Earn 1X Points on other purchases.

See Pay Over Time APR

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Long list of travel benefits, including airport lounge access and complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott (enrollment required)
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual statement credits with Saks and Uber
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Bonus categories leave something to be desired
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. One of the highest annual fees among premium travel cards

If you want as many premium travel perks as possible, The Platinum Card® from American Express could be the right card for you. The annual fee is high, but you get a long list of benefits such as airport lounge access, travel statement credits, complimentary hotel elite status, and more.

  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Capital One Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Earn unlimited 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 2 miles on all other purchases.

19.99% - 29.99% variable

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Excellent welcome bonus and miles earning
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Premium perks including airport lounge access and credits for certain purchases
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Visa Infinite benefits including travel and shopping protections
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. High annual fee
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Annual travel credits only apply to Capital One Travel purchases

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is one of the best credit cards for frequent travelers, with top-notch benefits and a wide range of built-in protections. It comes with a generous welcome bonus and credits that can help offset the annual fee — which is much lower than similar premium cards.

  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

Capital One Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Earn 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase.

Earn 75,000 miles

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No bonus categories to keep track of
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes up to a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Other credit cards offer higher rewards in certain categories of spending

If you want an easy, no-fuss travel rewards credit card, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great fit. For a moderate annual fee, it offers plenty of value, useful benefits, and a substantial welcome bonus.

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase-or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program. Earn 3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. Earn 2 points on all other eligible purchases.

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual statement credits can save you money on Marriott stays
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You get a free reward night each year after your renewal month
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Other cards are more rewarding for earning points on your spending

If you're loyal to Marriott, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card can help you save money and improve your stays, thanks to automatic Marriott Platinum elite status and lots of opportunities to earn additional points.

  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. 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.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits 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. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • $650 Annual Fee.

Chase IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG Hotel & Resorts. Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Earn 140,000 bonus points

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Anniversary reward night can be worth more than the annual fee
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Could offer better rewards on non-IHG purchases

If you stay at IHG properties even just a few times a year, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a great way to save money on your hotel stays and enjoy extra benefits. The annual free night alone can easily be worth much more than the annual fee, and perks like up to $50 in United TravelBank Cash and valuable annual spending incentives make the card even more compelling.

  • Earn 140,000 Bonus Points
  • Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
  • IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®

Chase United℠ Explorer Card

Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Earn 50,000 bonus miles

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual fee is waived the first year
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Earns bonus miles on several purchase categories, including dining
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes an application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Gets you a free checked bag on United when you pay with the card
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not the most rewarding card for most non-United travel purchases

The United Explorer card is the best all-around credit card for United flyers, offering a generous range of benefits for a modest annual fee. Cardholders receive a free checked bag, priority boarding, and inflight discounts on United flights, plus two one-time United Club airport lounge passes each year for your anniversary.

  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases
  • Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
  • 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
  • Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
  • Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary

American Express Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

Earn 3x Miles on Delta purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 3x Miles at hotels when purchase made directly with the hotel. Earn 2x Miles on dining at restaurants worldwide, and for takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 2x Miles on groceries at U.S supermarkets. Earn 1X Miles on all other purchases.

Earn 85,000 bonus miles

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Earns bonus miles at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual companion certificate can help you recoup most, if not all, of the annual fee
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You get a free checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights

Delta's mid-tier card is a good choice for frequent flyers who can take advantage of money-saving benefits like a free checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights, an annual companion certificate, and a statement credit for the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee. However, if you're unlikely to maximize these perks or you don't fly Delta that often, a travel credit card with a lower annual fee is a better choice.

  • Earn 85,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
  • Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
  • Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $350 Annual Fee.

American Express Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Earn 3x Miles on Delta purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 1X Miles on all other purchases.

Earn 95,000 bonus miles

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual companion certificate benefit, which is valid for domestic first class and Comfort+ as well as the main cabin
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Access to Delta Sky Clubs and American Express Centurion Lounges when you're flying Delta
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Earns 3x miles on Delta purchases
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer bonus miles on non-Delta purchases

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is one of the best airline credit cards for frequent Delta flyers who can use benefits like airport lounge access, which can make the $650 annual fee worthwhile.

  • Earn 95,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club® and bring up to two guests or immediate family members at a rate of $50 per person per visit when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Receive four Delta Sky Club® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly together on Delta. After that, you may bring up to two guests at a per-visit rate of $50 per person, per location.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • $240 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

U.S. Bank U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center. Earn 4X points on travel, gas stations, and EV charging stations. Earn 2X points on streaming services, plus, a $30 credit for annual streaming purchases like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify®, Apple Music, Disney+, HBO Max and more. Earn 2X points at grocery stores, grocery delivery, and dining. Earn 1X point on all other eligible purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% Variable

50,000 points

Excellent/Good

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Great earning rate on travel and at gas stations (4x points = 4% back)
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Bonus points on streaming services plus $30 yearly streaming credit can save you money
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit is worth up to $100
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Annual fee after the first year
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No airline or hotel transfer partners

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is a good choice if you're looking for a card that earns a substantial welcome bonus along with strong bonus categories for a moderate annual fee. It also offers excellent perks like Priority Pass airport lounge access, SmartDelay protection, cell phone protection, a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit, and an annual streaming credit.

U.S. Bank U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

Earn 1-5x points on purchases

21.24% - 28.24% Variable

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Substantial welcome bonus and great earning opportunities, especially with mobile wallets
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. $325 annual travel and dining credit can offset most of the $400 annual fee
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Top-notch travel insurance and protections
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. You must have an existing relationship with US Bank to be approved
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited to a 12-month complimentary Priority Pass membership with only four free visits for cardholder (plus a guest) included

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card is a premium credit card with benefits that have no trouble offsetting the annual fee. One of its most unique (and valuable) qualities is its ability to earn 3x points on all purchases made through a mobile wallet, so if you use payment methods like Apple Pay or Samsung Pay, you'll have no problem accruing points in a hurry.

  • The information related to the U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card has been collected by Business Insider and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
  • Earn 50,000 points worth $750 on travel after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening
  • Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards
  • Earn 3X points for every $1 on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet
  • Earn 1X point per $1 spent on all other eligible net purchases
  • Use your mobile device to instantly redeem points for almost any purchase

Bank of America Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.

Earn 60,000 online bonus points

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Statement credits can help you recoup the annual fee
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Earns 1.5 points per dollar on purchases outside of bonus categories
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good welcome bonus
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. To earn the highest rewards rate, you need to qualify for Bank of America's Preferred Rewards program, which requires a minimum of $20,000 in eligible accounts

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is ideal for folks who want a travel credit card with strong points earning and top-notch benefits without a high annual fee.

  • Low $95 annual fee.
  • Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 - 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
  • Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Best Global Entry and TSA PreCheck Credit Card Reviews

Annual Fee: $695

The Platinum Card® from American Express is consistently one of the top-ranking cards for air-travel rewards. Among the best benefits is an annual airline incidental fee credit of up to $200 for checked baggage fees, lounge day passes, and more at one selected airline**, and extra points on flights booked directly with airlines or American Express Travel.

To start, you can 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. That's worth about $1,440 in travel, according to Business Insider's valuation of Amex points.

Though this is not an airline rewards card, Amex Platinum Card cardholders have access to some of the best airport lounges in the world, including Delta Sky Clubs while flying with Delta Airlines, over 1,400 Priority Pass lounges around the world**, and the luxurious American Express Centurion Lounges .

American Express gives a statement credit to offset the application fee of either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (up to $100 every four years). You'll see the credit appear on your account within eight weeks of payment.

American Express Platinum Card Review

Annual Fee: $395 ( rates and fees )

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Capital One's first premium card, is packed with benefits that can more than offset the annual fee. It offers a hefty welcome bonus of 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. That's worth about $1,275 in travel, according to Business Insider's valuation of Capital One miles.

Other benefits include $300 per year in credits toward travel booked through Capital One, Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, and Capital One airport lounge access (even for authorized users), a 10,000-mile bonus on each account anniversary (worth $100 in travel), and Visa Infinite travel and purchase benefits.

Once every four years, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card cardholders can receive a statement credit to reimburse you for the cost of either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (up to $100). 

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Review

Annual Fee: $95 ( rates and fees )

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the best travel rewards cards available. The simple rewards structure means that it's easy to earn miles on all your everyday purchases — you'll earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases. You can redeem miles toward travel at a flat rate of 1 cent each, or transfer them to Capital One's airline and hotel partners , including Air Canada Aeroplan , British Airways, and Wyndham.

With the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, you can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within three months from account opening (worth about $1,275 in travel, based on Business Insider's valuations).

Capital One gives a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, but you won't see the credit on your statement until two billing cycles after paying the application fee.

Capital One Venture Card Review

Annual Fee: $550

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers new cardholders 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening (worth about $1,350 in travel according to Business Insider's valuation of Chase points).

The Chase Ultimate Rewards® points you'll earn with the card are simple and lucrative, with 5x points on air travel and 10x points on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards (after earning the $300 annual travel credit) and 3x points on all other travel and dining. For booking travel, you can book flights, hotels, rental cars, and more through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal , and redeem points for 1.5 cents each.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, and you'll see the credit appear on your account 24 hours after paying the application fee.

Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card Review

Annual Fee: $650

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is Marriott's premium credit card, and despite a high annual fee, it offers perks that can be well worth it for frequent Marriott guests. It comes with an intro bonus offer of 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.

Cardholders receive a free night worth up to 85,000 points after each annual card renewal month, and up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide. It also offers Priority Pass airport lounge access**, automatic Marriott Platinum elite status, and 25 elite night credits each calendar year. 

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card offers a statement credit of up to $100 for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four years.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex Card Review

Annual Fee: $99

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is offering a welcome bonus of 140,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Based on Business Insider's estimate of IHG points value, that's worth around $910 in travel.

IHG is an often-overlooked option, but this credit card is one of our picks for best hotel credit cards ; it's made for travel enthusiasts and making the most out of stays at IHG properties

The card's most significant reward is a reward anniversary night each year that is valid on hotels costing up to 40,000 points. Additionally, cardholders earn 10x points with IHG properties (up to 26x points), though IHG points are nowhere near as valuable as others listed in this article.

This card also earns 5x points at restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores, and 3x points on all other purchases. Cardholders are also eligible for a fourth reward night when using points to book a hotel stay of three or more consecutive nights at eligible properties.

You're eligible for a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS statement credit up to $100 every four years, and you'll see the statement credit on your account within 24 hours of making that payment.

There's a small-business version of this card as well: the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card also comes with a NEXUS, Global Entry, or TSA PreCheck fee credit of up to $100 every four years.

Here's our IHG One Premier Business credit card review with more details.

Annual Fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $95

The United℠ Explorer Card comes with a welcome bonus offer of 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open. That's worth around $650 in flights, according to our valuation of United miles.

Cardholders earn 2x miles for every dollar spent on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays, and 25% back on inflight purchases. To sweeten your airline experience, you and one companion on the same reservation can check your first bag for free when you use your United℠ Explorer Card to book your ticket (a savings of up to $140 per round trip), and you'll get two one-time passes for the United Club each year on your anniversary.

You're eligible for a NEXUS, Global Entry, or TSA PreCheck statement credit up to $100 every four years, and the credit will post to your account 24 hours after making the payment.

The premium United credit cards — United Quest℠ Card and United Club℠ Infinite Card — also offer a Global Entry fee reimbursement, but their annual fees are much higher.

United Explorer Card Review

Annual Fee: $595

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is American Airlines' top-of-the-line co-branded option, with full Admirals Club access for cardholders and immediate family members or up to two guests. Buying an Admirals Club membership would cost you $550, so if you really want to access American's airport lounges, this card can be a good deal.

Other benefits include a first bag checked for free on domestic AA itineraries, priority boarding on American flights, and the ability to earn 10,000 Loyalty Points toward American elite status after spending $40,000 on the card during the qualifying status year.

The Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit is available once every five years.

Citi AAdvantage Executive Card Review

Annual Fee: $350

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is offering a welcome bonus of 85,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.. According to our estimate of Delta miles value, that's worth about $935 in flights.

It earns 3x miles on eligible Delta purchases and on purchases made directly with hotels, in addition to 2x miles at restaurants including takeout and delivery and U.S. supermarkets. 

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card also offers a Delta companion certificate each year upon renewal. This lets you bring along someone on an itinerary in the main cabin — they'll just pay taxes and fees that max out at $75.

Another benefit is a statement credit up to $100 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck application fees after you apply through any authorized enrollment provider, which the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card offers once every four years. This perk is available on the business version of this card, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card, as well.

Read our Delta American Express Platinum Business Card Review .

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers a welcome bonus of 95,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership. Based on Business Insider's valuations, that's worth about $1,045 in travel.

Plus, you'll earn 3x miles on eligible Delta purchases. You'll get both Delta Sky Club access and Amex Centurion lounge access when you fly Delta. Reserve card members will also receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

Like the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers a companion certificate each year after you renew your card — but in this case, it's valid for first-class and Delta Comfort+® as well as the main cabin.

Cardholders receive up to $100 in credit toward the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four years after applying through any authorized enrollment provider. This is also available on the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card.

Read our Amex Business Delta Reserve Card Review .

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is a good U.S. Bank credit card for frequent travelers who don't want to pay a high annual fee. Along with a welcome bonus offer of 50,000 points after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days from account opening (worth $500), it earns 5x points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked through the Altitude Rewards Center, 4x points on travel and at gas stations, 2x points at grocery stores, grocery delivery, dining and streaming services, and 1 point per dollar everywhere else.

Cardholders receive a $30 annual streaming bonus for eligible services like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Spotify, cellphone protection , and Visa Signature benefits.

Once every four years, U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card cardholders can receive up to a $100 statement credit to cover the cost of a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application or renewal.

U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Card Review

Annual Fee: $400

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card is an excellent pick if you're looking for a premium card with an annual fee that's easy to offset with statement credits. New cardholders can earn 50,000 points after you spend $4,500 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening (worth $750 in travel).

The card offers a wide range of perks, including up to $325 annual credit that reimburses travel and dining purchases and top-notch Visa Infinite travel and purchase protections.

U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card cardholders get up to a $100 statement credit every four years to offset the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Review

Annual Fee: $95

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is designed to earn the most on travel, dining, and more. You can earn 60,000 online bonus points after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening, and also get up to a $100 annual statement credit for airline fees.

The card earns 2x points on travel and dining purchases and 1.5x points spent on all other purchases. Points can be used with an exchange rate of 1 cent per point on a range of gift cards, or the same rate for cash back, travel, or a statement credit.

This card offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck statement credit of up to $100 every four years.

Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card Review

How to Get CLEAR Plus for Free With Credit Cards

American Express The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com. Earn 1.5X points on each eligible purchase at shipping providers, US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (on up to $2 million per calendar year). Earn 1X points for each dollar you spend on other eligible purchases.

19.49% - 28.49% Variable

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. More travel benefits than you'll find on any other business credit card
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous airport lounge access options, from American Express Centurion Lounges to Priority Pass (enrollment required)
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Complimentary hotel elite status (enrollment required)
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Access to Amex concierge services
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited opportunities to earn bonus points
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Annual statement credits won't be useful for everyone

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the best small-business cards with an elevated bonus and top-notch benefits (and a premium annual fee to match). It's an excellent offer if you like earning Membership Rewards points and you can maximize the bonus spending categories and perks — but be sure to assess whether the annual fee is worth it for you before you commit.

  • Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.

American Express American Express® Green Card

Earn 1-3 points per dollar on purchases

Earn 60,000 points

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous welcome bonus on par with pricier travel credit cards
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 3x bonus categories of travel, transit, and restaurants that rival the more-expensive Chase Sapphire Reserve
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable annual fee compared to many other travel rewards cards
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Annual statement credits with CLEAR and LoungeBuddy won't be useful to everyone
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Maximizing the travel statement credit from the welcome bonus requires $1,000 in spending

The American Express® Green Card might not be as flashy as other premium American Express cards, but it's an affordable starting point for folks who want to start earning credit card rewards for free travel.

A handful of travel cards offer statement credits to offset the fees associated with (the much more expensive) CLEAR Plus program. CLEAR Plus is an expedited security screening program that allows you to cut the line at many TSA checkpoints around the country (and even some stadiums).

The standard price for CLEAR Plus is $189 per year — a hefty price for anyone not carrying one of the following cards:

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express — 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
  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express — 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the card within the first three months of card membership
  • American Express® Green Card — 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership and earn 20% back on eligible travel and transit purchases, up to a total of $200 back, made during your first six months of card membership

Each of these credit cards comes with a $189 statement credit toward CLEAR Plus each year. It's technically possible to get CLEAR Plus for less than $189, which means a single card could potentially get two free memberships. For example, CLEAR Plus is discounted at the following rates for certain individuals:

  • Free for Delta Diamond Medallion and United 1K elite members
  • $149 per year for: Platinum, Gold, and Silver elite members of both Delta and United
  • $149 per year for: Cardholders of most Delta or United credit cards
  • $179 per year for: General Delta or United members (no elite status required) 

The two Platinum cards above also offer free TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, so they're arguably the best rewards cards for expedited security.

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck Credit Card Frequently Asked Questions 

TSA PreCheck allows you to pass through most domestic airport security checkpoints without a lot of rigmarole. You don't have to remove your shoes, belt, or light jacket; you don't have to take your laptop out of your bag; you don't even have to put your carry-on compliant toiletries in a separate bin.

To boot, there's also (usually) a separate lane exclusively for TSA PreCheck members. Not only is this lane often shorter, but it processes much faster because you're behind others who don't have to remove their shoes and belt, either.

Global Entry gives you an expedited experience at immigration at many U.S. airports when returning home from overseas. Instead of waiting in long lines, you can find a Global Entry kiosk, answer a few questions, and the kiosk will print out a paper that you can simply hand to an officer before leaving the airport. This can quite literally save hours during a single use.

Both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry memberships last five years.

Global Entry doesn't technically give you a TSA PreCheck membership — but it will qualify you for TSA PreCheck on most flights.

TSA PreCheck costs $78 or $85 for five years. But as covered above, there are fistfuls of credit cards that will reimburse this fee automatically as long as you pay the fee with a qualifying card.

You can submit a Global Entry application online — but similar to TSA PreCheck, you'll have to actually visit an enrollment center to complete the process.

However, Global Entry differs from TSA PreCheck in that it's much more difficult to achieve. There are dramatically fewer enrollment centers around the country, and the soonest appointment can be months away.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Credit Cards for Comped TSA PreCheck and Global Entry 

Our list of the best credit cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry was informed by our extensive credit card reviews, which follow our credit card rating methodology to assign a score from 1 to 5. The top credit card factors we look at are: the welcome bonus, the ongoing rewards rates, annual fee, other benefits and perks, and how easy it is to get good value out of the card.

travel credit cards global entry

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, please click here.

***Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for more details. Travel Accident Insurance is not guaranteed, it depends on the level of benefits you get at application.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.

travel credit cards global entry

  • Main content

10 Credit Cards That Cover the Cost of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

By Eric Rosen and Harrison Pierce

Low Angle View Of Coconut Palm Tree Against Skywith Airplane Flying By

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. We don't review or include all companies, or all available products. Moreover, the editorial content on this page was not provided by any of the companies mentioned, and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are entirely those of Condé Nast Traveler's editorial team. This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Sick of sitting in serpentine security lines and queuing up for interminable immigration processing? If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to enroll in Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. In fact, so many travel credit cards will reimburse you for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck costs that there is no reason not to submit an application for one of these programs if you are a cardholder.

Below, you'll find 10 credit cards that cover the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck and have other benefits that make them worth applying for, whether it's a low annual fee (bonus points if it's waived the first year), automatic elite status at hotel and airline partners , and airport lounge access . But first, we’re answering a few frequently asked questions about TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, so you’re fully up-to-speed on the programs before you pick the right card for you.

(Want to skip straight to our card suggestions? Jump to the travel credit cards that cover TSA PreCheck or Global Entry .)

What is the difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

There are a few key differences . For one, Global Entry holders can speed through customs and immigration when arriving in the US from an international destination, while TSA PreCheck is a domestic program run by the Transportation Security Administration. Approved passengers with TSA PreCheck can access expedited airport security checkpoints when exiting and traveling within the US and don’t have to remove their shoes or take out items like laptops from their carry-on bags. Travelers who qualify for Global Entry also receive access to TSA PreCheck , so you might as well apply for Global Entry and enjoy both programs.

How long are TSA PreCheck and Global Entry valid?

Both programs last five years, and most cards offer reimbursements every four to five years to ensure your membership to either program is current.

Who qualifies for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

For Global Entry, certain US citizens, US permanent residents, and citizens of 14 foreign partner countries—Argentina, Brazil, Bahrain, Colombia, Germany, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom—are all eligible . (Note: Depending on the country you’re a resident of, visas may also be required for entry into the US.) Canadian citizens are eligible for Global Entry, and can access TSA PreCheck’s benefits through the NEXUS program. Meanwhile, only American citizens or US lawful permanent residents enrolled in one of these programs are eligible for TSA PreCheck.

How do I enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?

If you fit the qualifications, head to our step-by-step guides to applying for both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck memberships. For Global Entry, you’ll need to create a Trusted Traveler Account online. Once you’re conditionally approved, which could take anywhere from 15 days to a few months, you’ll set up an appointment at an enrollment center for a final interview. (For tips on how to ace your interview and double check you have all the right documents, head to our Global Entry guide .) The total timeline for Global Entry can take anywhere from four to six months or more due to a high volume of applications.

For TSA PreCheck, you’ll follow a similar path: Fill out an online form, wait for approval to make an appointment, and then head to a dedicated enrollment center or select U.S. airports for an in-person interview. Reminder: If you’re applying for Global Entry, you do not need to separately apply for TSA PreCheck.

How much does TSA PreCheck and Global Entry cost?

Global Entry costs $100 to apply and is an expedited clearance program for pre-approved, low-risk travelers (and, as mentioned above, includes TSA PreCheck access). On its own, TSA PreCheck costs $78 per new application, and online renewals are $70. Just be sure to pay the fee with a credit card that will reimburse you for the service—most cards will automatically refund you.

How much do TSA PreCheck and Global Entry cost for children?

With TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can join their parents in the expedited security line at no extra cost. Children aged 13 to 17 can usually join their parents in the expedited lane but could be randomly excluded and need to go through standard security. If children are not traveling on the same reservation as a parent with TSA PreCheck, or they are traveling alone, they will need their own membership, which costs the same $78 as adults.

With Global Entry, your child will need their own application, to the tune of the same $100 as adults. We have a whole primer on how to get Global Entry for your kids , too. (Note: Most credit cards cover one PreCheck/Global Entry application for anyone—not just the cardholder—so if you have more than one card that offers reimbursement, you can use them for your kids and family members once you cover your own.)

The best travel credit cards that cover Global Entry and TSA PreCheck costs:

The following credit cards are presented in order of lowest annual fee to highest.

  • United Explorer Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

Delta skymiles® platinum american express card, capital one venture x rewards credit card, citi/aadvantage executive world elite mastercard, chase sapphire reserve®, marriott bonvoy brilliant® american express® card, the platinum card® from american express, united℠ explorer card.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Enjoy up to $100 as a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years as reimbursement for the application fee.

Annual fee: $95, waived the first year

Other benefits: Past welcome bonuses for this card have been up to 60,000 United miles, which is enough for a round-trip economy award from the US to Europe. Apart from that, it earns two miles per dollar on United purchases, on dining, and at hotels, and one mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases. Cardholders get a free checked bag for themselves and a companion, priority boarding, a 25 percent discount on in-flight purchases like food or Wi-Fi, and two United Club visits annually (worth more than $100). The auto rental collision damage waiver is primary, which is relatively uncommon for a card with such a low annual fee. Cardholders receive several other protections, like baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, purchase protection, and more.

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Current welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck once every four years when you use your Venture Rewards card to pay for the application.

Annual fee: $95

Other benefits: If you aren’t ready to splurge on a higher annual fee card, the Venture Rewards is an easy-to-use starter card that still reimburses you for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. Cardholders earn a flat rate of two miles per dollar on all purchases and five miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. You get Hertz Five Star status and the ability to transfer your points to 15 hotel and airline partners. Be sure to read our full Capital One Venture Rewards card review before applying.

Current welcome offer: Earn 75,000 Miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Get a credit of up to $100 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck charged to your card.

Annual fee: $99

Other benefits: Recent welcome offers for new cardholders have reached up to 175,000 points or have included a free night or statement credits for IHG Hotels purchases, with a relatively low spending threshold to earn the bonus. On top of that, every year you have this card, you also get an anniversary award worth up to 40,000 points, which should cover a night at most of the company’s 5,000-plus properties worldwide, including Kimpton Hotels and Regent Hotels. Cardholders earn up to 26 points per dollar on IHG stays; five points per dollar on travel, gas stations, and restaurants; and three points per dollar everywhere else. You'll also get automatic Platinum Elite status, which among other perks, includes your fourth night free when you redeem points for a stay of four or more nights. If you spend at least $20,000 each calendar year on your card, you’ll get a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points.

Current welcome offer: Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Plus, earn up to $100 in IHG statement credits on purchases at IHG Hotels and Resorts during the first 12 months from account opening.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Receive a statement credit of up to $100 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS when you use your card.

Annual fee: $199

Other benefits: Business owners who are Southwest enthusiasts can get a lot of value out of this card. To start, cardholders earn four points per dollar on Southwest purchases, three points per dollar on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases, two points per dollar on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services, and on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn one point per dollar on all other purchases. Each year on your account anniversary, you will earn a 9,000-point bonus. You also get four upgraded boardings and up to 365 InFlight Wi-Fi credits per year. If you have employees, you can get employee cards at no additional cost, so you can earn points on their spending as well.

Current welcome offer: Earn 80,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit : Receive one statement credit every four years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or every four-and-a-half years after you apply for TSA PreCheck ($85) and pay for it with your card (enrollment required, terms apply).

Annual fee: $350 (see rates and fees )

Other benefits: Delta fans will love the perks here—an annual companion pass for a domestic Main Cabin round-trip flight, first checked bag free, 20 percent off in-flight purchases, and access to Delta Sky Clubs at a per-visit rate of $50 when traveling on a Delta flight. You'll also receive $2,500 MQD each MQ Year and get closer to status with MQD Headstart, and earn $1 MQD for each $20 of purchases made on card in a calendar year. The card earns three points per dollar on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels, two points per dollar on restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S) and on groceries At U.S. supermarkets, and one point per dollar on all other eligible purchases. Cardholders also receive a 15 percent discount when booking award travel on any Delta-operated flight.

Current welcome offer: Earn 50,000 bonus  miles after spending $3,000 in purchase in your first six months of card membership.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck once every four years when you use your Venture X card to pay for the application.

Annual fee: $395

Other benefits: The Capital One Venture X card earns 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked via the Capital One Travel portal and five miles per dollar on flights booked through the portal. All other spending earns two miles per dollar. Cardholders can transfer miles to more than 15 airline partners, most of which at a 1:1 ratio, including Air Canada Aeroplan and TAP Miles&Go. As for perks, you'll get a $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases made through the Capital One Travel portal, a 10,000-mile bonus on every account anniversary, and unlimited access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges worldwide through Priority Pass and Plaza Premium Group, as well as access to the new Capital One Lounges. On top of that, cardholders receive automatic Hertz President's Circle Status, a complimentary PRIOR subscription, a six-month Enthusiast membership to The Cultivist, and $300 toward an annual membership at Gravity Haus.

Current welcome offer: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Receive up to $100 in statement credits every four years as reimbursement for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.

Annual fee: $595

Other benefits: This card was recently revamped, offering a variety of new benefits for a higher annual fee. The biggest perk is a complimentary Admirals Club membership for the primary cardholder (a value of up to $850). You and up to eight companions get your first checked bag free, 25 percent off in-flight purchases, and priority check-in and boarding on American flights. Citi also added travel protections and insurance that typically come standard on cards with this annual fee.

Cardholders earn four miles per dollar on American Airlines purchases, 10 miles per dollar on car rentals and hotels booked through aa.com, and one mile per dollar on all other purchases. You can also earn a $1 statement credit per $1 spent on Avis and Budget car rentals, up to $120 annually. After taking three Lyft rides in a month, you’ll receive a $10 Lyft credit. You can also get a $10 monthly statement credit as reimbursement for Grubhub purchases. Once you reach 50,000 loyalty points in one year, you will receive a 10,000-point bonus. At 90,000 in the same qualifying year, you will earn another 10,000-point bonus. Finally, after you spend $150,000 on your card within one calendar year, you will earn five points per dollar on American purchases.

Current welcome offer: Earn 100,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $10,000 in purchases within the first three months of account opening.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Receive a statement credit of up to $100 every four years after the first program (either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck or NEXUS) application fee is charged to your card by you or an authorized user.

Annual fee: $550

Other benefits: The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of the best (and most popular) all-around travel credit cards on the market. Cardholders receive up to $300 in statement credits each year as reimbursements for travel purchases. In addition, you get perks like access to over 1,300 Priority Pass airport lounges, and the ability to transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to 11 airline and three hotel loyalty programs, many of which at a 1:1 ratio. Cardholders also receive a Lyft Pink membership for two years, a DoorDash DashPass subscription, a $5 monthly DoorDash credit, an Instacart membership and a $15 monthly Instacart credit, and 10 points per dollar when purchasing Peloton equipment over $150. You earn 10 points per dollar on hotel and car rentals booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, five points per dollar on flights booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, and three points per dollar on dining and other travel purchases. Read our full Chase Sapphire Reserve card review before applying.

Current welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Receive one statement credit every four years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or every four-and-a-half years after you apply for TSA PreCheck ($85) and charge it to your card (enrollment required, terms apply).

Annual fee: $650 (see rates and fees )

Other benefits: Cardmembers receive a $100 statement credit for on-property purchases during stays of two nights or more at Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis properties, like spa treatments and rounds of golf (enrollment required, terms apply). Cardholders receive automatic Platinum Elite Status and receive 25 Elite Night credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status (terms apply), as well as one Free Night Award after your card renewal month, worth up to two 85,000 points (certain hotels have resort fees). Cardholders earn six points per dollar on Marriott purchases, three points per dollar at worldwide restaurants and on flights booked directly through airlines, and two points per dollar on all other eligible purchases. Like a few other cards on this list, you'll also get access to Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required, terms apply).

Current welcome offer: Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months from account opening.

Thailand Bangkok Hotel Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

With the Platinum Card, you can get perks at affiliated Fine Hotels & Resorts properties, like the pictured Mandarin Oriental Bangkok.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck benefit: Receive one statement credit every four years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or every four-and-a-half years after you apply for TSA PreCheck ($85) and pay for it with your card (enrollment required, terms apply).

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees )

Inside AmEx's new Centurion Lounge at LAX

Other benefits: For starters, you'll also get an annual $189 statement credit for a CLEAR Plus membership, a similar expedited security service that uses biometric data (think fingerprints and retina scans) to speed up security lanes at 51 airports—plus Hertz car rental lanes and stadiums (enrollment required, terms apply). You can also transfer AmEx points to 16 airline and hotel partners, including Air France/KLM, Delta, JetBlue, and Emirates. Cardholders earn five points per dollar on flights and hotels and one point per dollar on all other purchases.

The Platinum card also comes with other perks like a $200 statement credit for bookings of two nights or more at Fine Hotels & Resorts properties (like the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok) when booked through AmEx Travel; access to Priority Pass lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and AmEx Centurion lounges at airports (enrollment required, terms apply); automatic Gold elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy (enrollment required, terms apply); and bonus points-earning opportunities when making reservations through AmEx Travel.

And then there are the statement credits (enrollment required, terms apply): $200 worth of airline fee credits each year for purchases on seat assignments and checked bags; $20 a month to put towards entertainment like Disney+, a Disney Bindle, Hulu, the New York Times, Peacock, and the Wall Street Journal ; $15 a month for Uber rides and UberEats deliveries; $155 Walmart+ credit; and up to $300 a year to put towards select Equinox gym memberships (enrollment required). For the right traveler, all of this combined could justify the ultra-high fee.

Current welcome offer: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months from account opening.

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card prod ucts. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

See rates and fees for American Express cards listed: The Platinum Card ; Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ; Delta SkyMiles Platinum

Additional reporting by Meredith Carey.

travel credit cards global entry

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The Best Credit Cards That Pay for TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry

  • Credit Cards

You can save a lot of time and potential headache at the airport in 2023 with a membership to TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry .

These memberships allow you to skip the long airport security lines that cause you to stress the night before a trip and compel you to arrive hours early for your flight for fear of missing it.

But the convenience of skipping lines comes with a price. Both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry require membership and some background work before you can put them to use.

Thankfully, many credit card issuers see this as an opportunity to provide value to their members by offering complimentary subscriptions.

Money expert ( and self-described travel nut ) Clark Howard is a huge fan of skipping the lines at airports with his membership. And he thinks getting access to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry through your credit card is a great way to save money and travel in style.

“In most airports, PreCheck is going to be a reliable and really quick way through security,” Clark says. “But people are saying: ‘I don’t fly that often! Why would I spend that money?’ Well, now there are a lot of credit cards that will pay for your PreCheck.”

In this article, we’ll better explain what these programs offer and reveal which credit cards offer them as a perk.

Table of Contents

  • What Are TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
  • Which Credit Cards Offer TSA PreCheck or Global Entry for Free?
  • Some Cards Don’t Give You Free Memberships But Still Might Help

Final Thoughts

What are tsa precheck® and global entry.

Skipping lines at the airport sounds great!

But if you’re new to this concept, you’re likely wondering what these programs entail. Or perhaps you’re unsure which one makes the most sense for you.

Team Clark takes a deep dive into these options when comparing TSA PreCheck and Global Entry to CLEAR .

Here’s a quick rundown of the first two before we get into how to get them for free through your credit card.

TSA PreCheck®

TSA PreCheck is built for domestic travel in the United States. It costs $78 for a five-year membership.

TSA says that more than 200 airports and 83 airlines participate in the PreCheck program, which allows you to go through a specially designated line at airport security under less scrutiny.

Upon completion of your application, you’ll be required to complete an in-person appointment that includes fingerprinting for a background check. The TSA says this process typically takes 10 minutes.

Once approved, you’ll be able to skip time-consuming security measures like taking your shoes and belt off or removing your laptop and liquids from your baggage.

According to the TSA , 91% of PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes to get through airport security in December 2022.

Global Entry

Global Entry is built for international travelers. It costs $100 for a five-year membership.

If you’re a member of Global Entry, you’re also eligible to participate in the TSA PreCheck program . So you’re already getting the benefit of that $78 membership with this program.

Paying the extra $23 for Global Entry will help you expedite your international travel by being approved for the Trusted Traveler Program offered by U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Some of the perks to this membership are that you’re able to reduce wait times by using self-service kiosks or e-gates that use facial comparison technologies as well as avoiding paperwork upon arrival for international flights.

Application for this program also includes an in-person interview with a government official. On a recent episode of his podcast, Clark indicated that securing these interview times has become increasingly difficult as the program’s popularity surges.

Which Credit Cards Offer TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry for Free?

Travel credit card issuers often try to find ways to entice customers to apply and then stay with their brands for the long term. One of the ways they do that is with “freebie perks” that give added value to the consumer beyond the spending power and rewards program of their credit cards.

An increasing number of these cards are offering free access to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. This usually involves a statement credit that covers the cost associated with applying for either service, provided that you pay for your application with the credit card. Limitations of one $100 statement credit per five years are usually in the fine print.

Let’s look at some of our favorite credit cards that offer this perk, and then I’ll provide a more exhaustive list to help you know if one of the cards you already have offers it.

Best Credit Cards That Offer Free TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry

While there is not a no annual fee card that offers this perk, there are some low-cost cards that may be worth your time.

The Navy Federal Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards card may be the best chance to get this perk at a low annual fee, but you need to qualify for membership with the credit union to be eligible.

Venture Rewards from Capital One and the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card are a couple more options for free access to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry under the $100 per year annual fee threshold.

Low Annual Fee Cards

If you’re a more serious traveler, you may find that a travel rewards card with a higher annual fee actually makes sense for your wallet.

You may be surprised to learn that Clark says the Platinum Card® from American Express , which carries a $695 annual fee, is worth it for travelers who are able to take advantage of most of the card’s long list of valuable perks .

Clark carries the Venture X from Capital One in his wallet and speaks highly of the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , both of which are high-annual-fee credit cards that allow travelers a chance to earn that annual fee back.

High Annual Fee Cards

These credit cards also offer free tsa precheck® or global entry.

  • American Express Gold Corporate Card
  • American Express Centurion® Card
  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite
  • Citi®?/ AAdvantage®?Executive World Elite Mastercard®
  • Citi Prestige® Card
  • Commerce Bank® World Elite Mastercard®
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card
  • Expedia® Rewards Voyager Card from Citi
  • HSBC Elite World Elite Mastercard®
  • HSBC Premier World Mastercard®
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card
  • PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card
  • Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
  • Truist Business Travel Rewards Credit Card
  • Truist Enjoy Beyond Credit Card
  • Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card
  • UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card
  • United Club SM Infinite Card
  • United SM Explorer Card
  • United Quest SM Card
  • US Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

Some Credit Cards Don’t Give It To You As a Perk But Still Provide a Path

While I’ve highlighted some great travel cards that give this membership to you for free, it’s worth noting that you still have a path to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry access through other credit cards without using money in your wallet.

Some rewards credit cards will offer the chance to claim a membership by using your rewards points. Log in to your credit card’s online portal and search for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry in your rewards redemption options.

If you have a redemption option on your card, you’ll then need to do the math on the points or miles conversion to ensure that it’s a prudent use of your hard-earned credit card rewards.

The value of using your rewards points to claim this perk may vary from card to card.

This strategy for membership also extends to travel rewards programs you may have outside of your credit card. For example, Marriott allows you to redeem 25,000 Bonvoy rewards points for a TSA PreCheck membership .

Like many credit card perks, the usefulness of this one is in the eye of the beholder.

If you’re a travel nut like Clark, you’ll probably find that one of these line-skipping subscriptions is a “must have” for your excursions. And given that, earning it for free with one of the credit cards in your wallet makes a lot of sense.

Since many travel rewards cards are the ones offering this perk, perhaps you’d be best served to pick a travel card that both meshes with your spending habits and provides a complimentary TSA PreCheck or Global Entry subscription.

If you’re not into traveling via airplane often, this perk likely falls pretty far down the list of credit card benefits that will provide you value. You may want to skip on making this a priority and opt for things like a higher rate of cash back return on all purchases.

Do you have a credit card that pays for your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the Clark.com community ! To see the rates and fees for the American Express cards featured, please visit the following links: The Platinum Card® from American Express:  See Rates and Fees .

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The best credit cards for Global Entry in 2024

Ariana Arghandewal

Feb 14, 2024 • 14 min read

travel credit cards global entry

Fly far and return home with ease; Singapore's Jewel Changi Airport © Frans Sellies / Getty

This series of articles about credit cards, points and miles, and budgeting for travel is brought to you in partnership with  The Points Guy .

Advertiser Disclosure: This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. This relationship may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

Airports are the gateway to the world, but rarely are they peaceful and easy to navigate. Stress can mount quickly as security lines stretch, and wait times at customs can get even longer.

Luckily, Global Entry will expedite your customs experience when traveling home from abroad and get you through security lines faster when traveling domestically. Along with Global Entry, PreCheck, Nexus and Clear are other popular game-changers for savvy travelers seeking a smoother and more efficient journey.

Don't sign up for these programs until you've read this helpful guide. We'll walk you through the best credit cards to get and which ones will cover you for which programs. You'll be breezing through customs and immigration without the added expense in no time.

The best credit cards for airline miles

  • Best for global travelers: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • Best for domestic travelers: The Platinum Card® from American Express *
  • Best for no annual fee for the first year: United℠ Explorer Card
  • Best for a low annual fee: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
  • Best for business: Capital One Spark Miles for Business

Chase Sapphire Reserve: Best for global travelers 

The Chase Sapphire Reserve  is widely regarded as one of the best travel credit cards on the market, and for good reason. One of its standout features is the $100 Global Entry application fee credit, issued every four years. This $100 credit applies to Global Entry and other trusted traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck and Nexus. Nexus is a prescreening program available for travelers entering the U.S. and Canada, which can be useful for frequent travelers.

By covering multiple trusted traveler programs, the Chase Sapphire Reserve  allows cardholders to save time and hassle at not just one but multiple checkpoints during their travels. Whether it's speeding through airport security with PreCheck or breezing through customs with Global Entry or Nexus, this credit offers a wide range of benefits that cater to different types of travelers. 

Welcome bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Rewards: Earn 10X points on Chase Dining purchases, hotels and car rentals through Chase Travel℠; 5X points on flights booked through Chase Travel℠; 3X points on other travel and dining (including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out); 1X point on all other purchases.

Global Entry benefits: Up to $100 application fee credit towards Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus applications every four years.

Other travel benefits: Annual $300 in travel statement credits, Priority Pass Select membership, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, primary rental car insurance (up to $75,000 in the U.S. and abroad), lost luggage reimbursement and no foreign transaction fees.

Credit score required:  Excellent.

Annual fee: $550.

  • Application fee credit towards Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus.
  • The $300 annual travel statement credit partially offsets the annual fee.
  • High earning potential on travel spending.
  • A high annual fee of $550 may be difficult to justify for some cardholders.
  • Application approval is subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule : Chase likely won't approve a credit card application for someone who has opened five or more new credit cards from any issuer in the past 24 months.

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The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for domestic travelers

It might sound antithetical to bring up domestic travel when we’re discussing Global Entry. But not everyone travels internationally all the time. Travelers who fly domestically on occasion will benefit from a domestic trusted traveler program like TSA PreCheck and Clear Plus. The Platinum Card  offers application fee credits for both. 

The Platinum Card includes up to $189 annually in Clear Plus membership fee credit and up to $100 towards Global Entry every four years. Since TSA PreCheck is included with Global Entry approval, you can get up to three trusted traveler memberships covered with this one card.

Clear is beneficial for domestic travel, as it allows members to skip security screenings at select airports, while PreCheck is a great alternative when Clear isn’t available. Overall, the Amex Platinum Card also comes with over $1,500 in travel credits and complimentary airport lounge access, making traveling significantly more enjoyable.*

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 points after spending $8,000 within six months of account opening. 

Rewards: Earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year); 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel; 1X points on everything else.

Global Entry benefits: Up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit every year, plus $189 annually towards CLEAR Plus membership.

Other travel benefits: Up to $1,500 in annual travel, dining and entertainment credits; Hilton and Marriott Gold elite status; rental car elite status with Avis, Hertz and National rental car; comprehensive travel insurance; access to Amex’s Global Lounge network; no foreign transaction fees.

Credit score required: Excellent/Good.

Annual fee: $695. (see rates and fees )

  • Includes a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit every year, plus $189 CLEAR Plus credit annually. 
  • Access to airport lounges, including Centurion Lounges and Priority Pass Select.
  • Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits for incidental fees.
  • High annual fee of $695.
  • Some benefits may not be useful for all cardholders who don’t travel often.
  • The current welcome bonus isn’t subject to Amex’s once-per-lifetime rule .

American Express Membership Rewards transfer partners

United℠ Explorer Card

United℠ Explorer Card: Best for no annual fee for the first year

The United Explorer Card 's $95 annual fee is waived the first year, making it a great option if you want a card with Global Entry application fee credit at no extra cost. Additionally, the United Explorer Card offers other travel benefits such as free checked bags and priority boarding on United flights with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary, making it a valuable card for those who fly with United frequently. 

Travelers can further improve their airport experience with two annual United Club lounge passes. A 25% in-flight purchase rebate can add up substantially, given the inflated prices passengers often pay on flights. Overall, the combination of no annual fee and valuable travel benefits make the United Explorer Card a top choice for those looking to save money on their Global Entry application while enjoying additional perks during their travels.

Welcome bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Rewards: Earn 2X miles spent on purchases from United; 2X miles on dining, including eligible delivery services; 2X miles on hotels booked directly; 1X miles on all other purchases.

Global Entry benefits: Up to $100 as a statement credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus application fee credits every four years.

Other travel benefits: Two United Club passes annually; Premier upgrades on award tickets; 500 Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) for every $12,000 spent (up to twice per year); complimentary first checked bag for you and a companion; 25% statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi onboard United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks; priority boarding for the primary cardmember and companions on the same reservation; access to The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection; no foreign transaction fees.

Credit score required: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $0 the first year, then $95. (see rates and fees )

  • No annual fee during the first year. 
  • Valuable perks when flying United.
  • High annual fee of $95, which may not be worth it for infrequent travelers. 
  • Limited airline options as the card is specific to United Airlines.
  • Some benefits, such as priority boarding and free checked bags can also be obtained with lower-tier United credit cards or elite status.

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for a low annual fee

With an annual fee of only $95, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card provides great value for frequent travelers who want to save money on their Global Entry application. The card’s substantial welcome bonus and 2X miles earn rate on all spending is great for racking up airline miles for international and domestic travel. 

Cardholders can redeem Capital One miles at a rate of one cent each towards travel purchases or transfer them to 15 different airline transfer partners. The two annual lounge visits and waived foreign transaction fees make it an excellent credit for international travel .

Welcome bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 2X miles on all other purchases.

Global Entry benefits: Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.

Other travel benefits: Rental car insurance, travel accident insurance, Hertz Five Star status, up to two complimentary visits a year to Capital One and Plaza Premium lounges, no foreign transaction fees.

Credit score required: Excellent

Annual fee: $95

  • A $100 application fee credit every four years towards Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
  • Generous welcome bonus with easy redemption options. 
  • Reasonable annual fee for a card offering Global Entry application fee reimbursement.
  • Lacks category bonuses outside of Capital One Travel.
  • Capital One pulls applicants’ credit from all three bureaus.

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Capital One Spark Miles for Business

Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Best for business

The Capital One Spark Miles for Business  (see  rates and fees ) is an excellent choice for business owners looking to save on their Global Entry application fee. Not only does this card offer a $100 credit every four years towards the application fee, but it also comes with a waived annual fee for the first year. This means that you can enjoy all the benefits of this card without having to worry about any additional costs.

Beyond these valuable perks, the Capital One Spark Miles for Business card earns 2X miles on all spending and incurs no foreign transaction fees. These miles can be redeemed for travel purchases or transferred to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, providing even more value. 

Welcome bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $4,500 within the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase for your business; 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Global Entry benefits: Up to $100 application fee credit towards Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.

Other travel benefits: Two annual Capital One lounge visits, no foreign transaction fees.

Annual fee: $0 annual fee for the first year, then $95. (see  rates and fees )

  • Reasonable annual fee for a card offering Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit.
  • Waived annual fee during the first year of card membership.
  • Two annual lounge visits.
  • The $95 annual fee may be a deterrent for some small businesses
  • Limited travel benefits beyond the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit.

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Expedite your time getting through airports with these programs

What’s the difference between Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?

Global Entry, NEXUS, TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are all programs that offer expedited screening processes for travelers. While all three programs offer benefits for frequent travelers, they each have different focuses and eligibility requirements.

TSA PreCheck vs. Clear: which one is best to expedite your travels

Global Entry

Global Entry

Global Entry is a program offered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to expedite their entry into the United States. It includes a background check and an in-person interview at a Global Entry enrollment center. Once approved, travelers can use automated kiosks at select airports to complete their customs declaration and skip the traditional customs line. If you’re approved for Global Entry, you’ll automatically be enrolled in TSA PreCheck.

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: A guide to picking the best one for you

PreCheck offers expedited security clearance at airports in the US

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is a program offered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allows eligible passengers to go through an expedited security screening process at participating airports in the U.S. This includes access to dedicated security lanes where passengers can keep on their shoes, belts and light jackets, as well as leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags.

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Clear kiosks at an airport

CLEAR is a private company that offers an expedited security screening process for its members at participating airports. It uses biometric technology to verify identity and allows members to skip the standard ID check line. CLEAR does not provide any benefits for customs or immigration processes like Global Entry or NEXUS do. CLEAR is only available at around 50 airports and venues nationwide.

TSA PreCheck vs. CLEAR: which one is best to expedite your travels

Nexus and Global Entry stations at Pearson International Airport in Toronto

NEXUS is a joint program between CBP and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) that offers expedited processing for pre-approved travelers entering both countries. It includes Global Entry benefits as well as expedited processing at land borders and NEXUS lanes at select airports.

TSA Precheck vs Nexus

Who should get a credit card for Global Entry?

Anyone who wants to save time and hassle at the airport should consider getting a credit card for Global Entry. The application fee credit is very reasonable at $100, which is the same cost as some credit card annual fees. By opting for a card like the Capital One Venture or United Explorer Card , you can get your Global Entry application fee covered and earn points and miles toward your next vacation. It’s a win-win. 

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How to choose the best credit card for Global Entry

When choosing the best credit card for Global Entry, there are a few factors to consider. First, look for a credit card that offers a statement credit or reimbursement for the Global Entry application fee. This will help offset the cost of the program.

Secondly, consider the other benefits and perks offered by the credit card . Many travel rewards cards offer additional benefits such as airport lounge access , travel insurance and bonus points on travel-related purchases. These can all be useful for frequent travelers who are looking to expedite their airport experience with Global Entry.

Lastly, it's important to compare annual fees and interest rates among different credit cards. While some premium travel cards may have higher annual fees, they may also offer more valuable benefits that make it worth it for frequent travelers.

Overall, when choosing a credit card for Global Entry, consider your personal spending habits and travel needs to find a card that offers the best combination of benefits, rewards and value.

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TSA PreCheck will ease your travels and help save time

How much does Global Entry cost?

The cost of Global Entry is $100 for a five-year membership. This fee is non-refundable and covers the cost of the application process, background checks and enrollment in the program. Many travel credit cards offer reimbursement for the Global Entry application fee as a benefit.

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What is the difference between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck?

Global Entry is a program that allows expedited clearance for low-risk, pre-approved international travelers entering the United States. TSA PreCheck is a program that allows expedited security screening for domestic flights within the United States.

How to use points and miles to save money on travel

Who is eligible for Global Entry?

U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and citizens of certain other countries are eligible for Global Entry. 

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Global Entry stations

How can I get Global Entry for free?

You can get Global Entry for free through certain credit cards that offer a statement credit or reimbursement for the application fee. 

The best travel credit cards

Can I use my Global Entry credit for someone else?

Yes, you can use your Global Entry credit for someone else’s application as long as you provide your credit card as payment.

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* Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit  americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide  for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit  americanexpress.com  to learn more.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

This article was first published Oct 6, 2023 and updated Feb 14, 2024.

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These Credit Cards Get You TSA PreCheck and Global Entry for Free

Use the right travel credit card and you can fast-track through domestic security and u.s. immigration without paying a dime..

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U.S. passport with Global Entry paper slipped into it

Even a few credit cards with low annual fees offer a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit as a benefit to cardholders.

Photo by Evgenia Parajanian / Shutterstock

AFAR partners with CreditCards.com and may receive a commission from card issuers. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. Compensation may impact how an offer is presented. Our coverage is independent and objective, and has not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are entirely those of the AFAR editorial team.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Airports in the United States are nearly as busy as they were prepandemic , which means those dreaded lines for security and immigration have grown, well, ever more dreadful. If you’ve gasped at endless airport security lines extending deep into check-in areas, crammed with passengers panicked about missing flights—you’re not alone.

Thankfully, it’s possible to avoid becoming one of those flustered, freaked-out travelers with TSA PreCheck , which allows you to breeze through U.S. airport security checkpoints. (According to data provided by the Transportation Security Administration in October 2023, 99 percent of TSA Precheck–enrolled travelers waited less than 10 minutes to get through security.) For an equally seamless journey through immigration and customs, Global Entry speeds up the immigration and customs process after returning to the U.S. from an international destination. Both memberships last for five years.

What’s even better is that Global Entry automatically includes TSA PreCheck (but not vice versa) , so it’s possible to access all the fast-track lanes with just one application. Thankfully, numerous travel credit cards offer a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit as a benefit to cardholders. They’ll refund your application fee as a statement credit and do so every four years (when your membership is up for renewal).

Here’s how your travel credit card can get you Global Entry and/or TSA PreCheck for free.

17 credit cards that cover Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fees

Travel credit cards feature a variety of benefits to help offset annual fees. One of the most popular is a statement credit every four years up to $100 every four years after you apply for Global Entry or up to $85 for a TSA PreCheck credit. These credits cover program application fees in their entirety. (Terms apply.)

Among the cards with high annual fees offering this benefit are:

  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ($395 annual fee)
  • Capital One Venture X Business ($395 annual fee)
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve® ($550 annual fee)
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card ($550 annual fee, see rates and fees )
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card ($650 annual fee, see rates and fees )
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express ($695 annual fee, see rates and fees )
  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express ($695 annual fee, see rates and fees )
  • United Club℠ Infinite Card ($525 annual fee)

A number of midrange annual fee cards also provide a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit:

  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card ($250 annual fee, see rates and fees )
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card ($250 annual fee, see rates and fees )
  • Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card ($199 annual fee)
  • United Quest℠ Card ($250 annual fee)

Even a few cards with low annual fees grant cardholders the perk:

  • Aeroplan® Credit Card ($95 annual fee)
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95 annual fee)
  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card ($99 annual fee)
  • IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card ($99 annual fee)
  • United℠ Explorer Card ($0 annual fee for the first year, then $95)

How to apply using your travel credit card and get TSA PreCheck and Global Entry for free

Your applications for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck begin online. (First, understand how these trusted traveler programs differ to decide which is right for you .)

Typically, when applying for Global Entry online, you’ll be prompted to pay a nonrefundable $100 fee during the application process. Use a credit card that offers a Global Entry credit, and a statement credit will appear days to weeks after the fee clears, offsetting the charge.

The charge for a first-time TSA PreCheck membership works a bit differently. You’ll complete your TSA PreCheck application online and then schedule an in-person appointment at an Enrollment Center to finalize the process. During your in-person appointment, you will pay the nonrefundable program fee, which will later be reversed as a statement credit. The first-time, nonrefundable application fee for TSA PreCheck is now $78–$85 for a five-year membership, depending on the enrollment provider. To renew your TSA PreCheck membership, it costs $70 to renew online, and $70–$78 to renew a TSA PreCheck membership in person, depending on the enrollment provider. Online renewals can be paid online, of course.

Note that you cannot receive separate credits for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck within a four-year period—it’s one or the other. If you apply for TSA PreCheck now and decide to upgrade to Global Entry within four years, you won’t get the second fee reimbursed. However, if you apply for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck is automatically included with it, so no need to do the separate PreCheck application. The $100 fee ends up covering both programs.

Two cards extend statement credits to each additional cardholder

With almost every credit card, the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck statement credit is reserved to one per account, regardless of additional cardholders or authorized users . However, there are two exceptions:

  • The Platinum Card from American Express
  • The Business Platinum Card from American Express

These two cards extend statement credits to every additional cardholder. For example, someone who has an Amex Platinum and three additional users on their account can get a total of four credits (up to $100 each), one per card.

This article was originally published in 2021; it was updated on January 29, 2024, with current information. While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they are subject to change at any time, and may have changed or may no longer be available.

Courtesy of Kessler Collection

Best credit cards for Global Entry reimbursement

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Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to expedite the customs and immigration process upon arrival in the United States. This benefit can save a lot of time after a long trip home.

Signing up for Global Entry also gets you TSA PreCheck membership , which allows you to use expedited security lines at U.S. airports. While these memberships aren’t free, many popular travel credit cards include a statement credit towards application fees in either program. Once approved for a credit card with this perk, you can use the card to pay for either membership the issuer will reimburse you automatically. Here are some of our top choices for credit cards for Global Entry reimbursement.

Comparing the best credit cards for Global Entry reimbursement

Some of the top travel credit cards include a $100 statement credit to cover the application costs for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership once every four years. Here is a comparison of our top choices:

Top credit cards for Global Entry reimbursement

Chase Sapphire Reserve® image

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Bankrate’s view.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is the top premium card for earning Chase Ultimate Rewards . You’ll get some of the best available benefits to travel in style, such as lounge access, excellent trip protections, and a $300 annual travel credit covering a wide range of travel purchases.

You can also pool points from other Chase cards within the Chase trifecta to increase the value of your earned points. With generous reward rates on travel purchases, this card is ideal if you frequently make major travel expenses.

Pros & cons

  • This card offers top-of-the-line travel protections and benefits.
  • Points are worth 50 percent more when you book through the Chase Travel™ portal.
  • The welcome offer isn’t any higher than Chase’s mid-tier options, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred®.
  • Other less expensive Chase cards match all of its bonus reward categories.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card image

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards card is a well-rounded choice if you want big value from a low-cost mid-tier card. It has a competitive welcome offer, solid flat-rate earnings, and decent benefits to cover yourself while traveling.

You can combine miles from other Capital One cards to boost your balance while earning substantial rewards from the Capital One Travel portal, which is rare for a low-annual-fee card. Having access to transfer partners gives you extra flexibility when redeeming your miles, making this an excellent choice if you want the simplicity of one card with a low fee.

  • The flat-rate rewards rate makes this a simple choice if you just want one card.
  • The card has excellent benefits and redemption options compared to other cards at its price point.
  • You’ll get the best value from your miles if you use transfer partners, which can limit its overall value.
  • Other cards offer additional bonus categories to boost earnings.

The Platinum Card® from American Express image

The Platinum Card® from American Express

While you won’t want the Amex Platinum for its reward rates, the benefits provided exceed every other card on the market. Even though the annual fee is high, you can easily offset the fee by using the card’s many perks. You’ll have solid lounge access, credits across travel, shopping, and lifestyle expenses, and elite status with numerous hotel and car rental programs.

You’ll also earn valuable Membership Rewards with excellent redemption flexibility, including an extensive list of transfer partners and booking through Amex Travel .

  • The laundry list of benefits and credits provides exceptional added value.
  • This card has the most comprehensive selection for airline lounge access.
  • The card has one of the highest annual fees on the market.
  • Reward rates don’t measure up to other cards outside the travel category.

United℠ Explorer Card image

United℠ Explorer Card

The United card is the prime choice if you’re looking for a co-branded airline card with solid benefits and Global Entry. It offers solid value if you’re a frequent United traveler thanks to perks like free first-checked baggage and United Club passes.

The card’s combination of a welcome offer with the waived annual fee in the first year grants an exceptional initial value. You can also use United MileagePlus miles to book flights with United or any of its Star Alliance partners on their site. While United award bookings can be complicated, the potential for outsized value the effort worth it.

  • The annual fee is waived in the first year, which lets you try the card out before deciding if you want it long-term.
  • The welcome offer provides a solid boost to the initial value of this card.
  • Your redemption options are limited to flights booked with United.
  • You can earn better rewards across the board with other reward cards.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card image

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Premier card is the only hotel co-branded card with Global Entry. Frequent IHG guests can get exceptional value from this card, earning 26X points on stays. The card also grants a fourth night free on award stays and offers solid bonus categories.

Other valuable perks include a free night certificate and a semi-annual United TravelBank credit. And if you spend $20,000 annually, you’ll get a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points, which more than offsets the annual fee.

  • You’ll get automatic Platinum Elite status, providing boosted earning rates on eligible IHG stays and additional on-property benefits.
  • You can top off free night certificate awards to cover stays of more than 40,000 points.
  • IHG points are less valuable than many other hotel points.
  • Card redemption options are limited to stays at IHG hotels.

How to choose the best credit cards for Global Entry reimbursement

While Global Entry reimbursement is a valuable perk, it shouldn’t be the primary driver of your card choice. Make sure to compare the following card features to determine what card gives you the most value.

  • Bonus categories: Compare the bonus categories offered with each card and whether they fit your everyday spending needs.
  • Perks and benefits: A card’s perks and benefits can provide hundreds of dollars in value, provided you use them regularly.
  • Welcome offers: Most of these cards provide excellent upfront value with their welcome offers. Make sure you can comfortably reach the spend requirements on a card’s welcome offer if it’s a deciding factor.
  • Annual fee: Decide whether any credits or perks offer enough value to offset the annual fee . With solid card options at different fee levels, you shouldn’t feel pressured to apply for an expensive travel card if there’s a lower-cost card that better meets your needs.
  • Reward redemptions: Examine the reward program of each card to see what redemption option gives you the most value. Things to consider are transfer partners, points and miles valuations , whether you can pool points with other cards or members, and other ways to use your points.

How to get a Global Entry fee waived with a credit card

There are a few steps involved in applying for Global Entry and the process may take up to a year to complete in some cases. Here is a typical timeline of the process and how to get your Global Entry fee waived.

Create a Trusted Traveler Programs account

Once you have a credit card that offers a Global Entry credit, you need to create a Trusted Travel Programs (TTP) account. When applying you’ll need to provide your full name and address, Social Security number, employment information and any information listed on your passport.

Pay the Global Entry fee with your credit card

Once you fill out your Trusted Travelers Programs account application, you’ll need to pay the fee to apply. To have the Global Entry fee reimbursed by your credit card, you must use the credit card that offers this perk to pay (no need to activate). Once you pay the $100 fee for Global Entry and submit your application, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will look over your application.

Set up an interview and get approved

If your application is conditionally approved, you must schedule an in-person interview if you’re new to the program. You can only complete your interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, and these locations are not available in every major city. You can search for the closest enrollment center and set up your appointment.

Some paid services can monitor appointment availability by date or city. You can also opt for Enrollment on Arrival . This allows applicants who are conditionally approved to complete the interview process when arriving back in the United States from abroad at select domestic and international locations.

Watch for the fee credit

Whether approved for Global Entry or not, your credit card issuer will automatically apply your Global Entry fee credit to your account, usually within two billing cycles. You can use this benefit once every four years. Since Global Entry membership lasts for five years, you can use the credit from a single card to renew your membership every time. For additional friends or family members, you’ll need a card with the Global Entry benefit to cover each person.

Frequently asked questions

How does global entry work, how much does global entry cost, how long does the global entry approval process take, what’s next.

Check out the resources below to find a card that matches your travel needs and to help budget for your next trip.

Find your credit card match

Travel Toolkit

Financially prepare for travel

The bottom line

Signing up for Global Entry can save you valuable time and hassle when you return to the United States after traveling overseas. Many travel credit cards offer a statement credit towards application fees for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, making it smart to use a credit card with this perk to pay for the membership. But because many cards offer this benefit, you’ll want to consider all the features provided to determine the best option.

*The information about the United℠ Explorer Card and IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

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How to apply for global entry.

travel credit cards global entry

When you arrive in the United States, you may be ready to move on with your journey quickly. However, there's something to do first. You'll have to pass the required screening by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and many factors can cause long lines and waits. With Global Entry, that screening can be streamlined.

Members of this Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) can have a smoother experience at U.S. Customs, and that's probably why the program is popular among international travelers.

Global Entry is often compared with TSA PreCheck ® , another TTP that can save travelers time at the airport. While Global Entry is helpful for U.S. Customs screenings, TSA PreCheck can be beneficial at airport security screenings. Global Entry membership includes TSA PreCheck.

Who is eligible for Global Entry?

U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and citizens of certain countries are eligible for Global Entry. If you are under the age of 18, your parent or legal guardian must provide consent for you to participate in the program. There are several additional requirements for all Global Entry applicants.

Each Global Entry applicant:

  • Needs a clean criminal record
  • Cannot have any customs, immigration or agriculture violations
  • Cannot be the subject of an ongoing investigation by any federal, state or local law enforcement agency

As mentioned, citizens of certain countries can apply for Global Entry. Those countries include:

  • Mexico (Mexican nationals)
  • The Netherlands
  • South Korea
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom

The CBP also has international arrangements with some countries. Applicants may need to meet additional requirements depending on their country of citizenship. Canadian citizens and residents, for instance, are eligible for Global Entry benefits through NEXUS membership.

How do I apply for Global Entry?

You can apply for Global Entry online. As you submit the application, you'll have to pay the fee in full. If your application is accepted and conditionally approved, you'll be notified about how to schedule an in-person interview. More specifically, here's what you can expect to do:

1. Create a TTP account online

When you begin the Global Entry application at the CBP website , an account is required regardless of your age.

2. Log in to your TTP account and finish the application

As of May 2024, the one-time application fee for Global Entry is $100. It must be paid when you submit your application. The fee is not refundable even if an application is denied. Membership is valid for five years. Certain credit cards offer a statement credit for the application fee, such as Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , which has an annual fee and additional travel benefits.

3. Schedule an interview

Vital parts of the Global entry application process are submitting to a background check and attending an in-person interview with a CBP officer. A separate interview is required for each applicant, including children of all ages.

If the CBP conditionally approves your application, you'll receive instructions for scheduling an interview. Applicants can complete the required interview at a Global Entry enrollment center or through a program called Enrollment on Arrival . This allows a Global Entry applicant who is conditionally approved to complete an interview when arriving in the United States.

4. Bring the required documentation

You'll need to bring your valid passport and one other form of identification, such as a current driver's license or ID card, to the Global Entry interview. A lawful permanent resident will need to present their machine-readable permanent resident card. If you're a parent or legal guardian accompanying a minor to their Global Entry interview, both of your passports will be needed.

Completing the interview concludes the application, but you will not be approved for Global Entry immediately. 

How long does it take to get approved for Global Entry?

On average, Global Entry applications are processed in four to six months. If your application is conditionally approved, a notification could arrive quickly by email and in your TTP account portal. Then, the in person interview must be scheduled.

There may be a waiting period for securing an interview based on your location and the existing demand for Global Entry. Given that the time frame for the entire process is unpredictable, you may want to consider submitting an application well before your travel plans. 

A program like Global Entry can save you time at the airport by streamlining your U.S. Customs screening. Global Entry membership can take several weeks or months, but it begins with submitting an application online at the CBP website. If you receive a conditional approval, you can schedule your interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.

Although the Global Entry fee is nonrefundable, certain travel credit cards may reimburse it with a statement credit, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. 

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Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card review: Luxury perks and valuable rewards

Emily Thompson

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card overview

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best rewards credit cards of all time. Offering up to 10 points per dollar on travel and dining through Chase Travel℠, this card earns incredibly valuable Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to hotel and airline partners or redeemed directly for flights at a rate of 1.5 cents per point. Add in a $300 annual travel credit, airport lounge access and a litany of other perks, and this card is guaranteed to upgrade your travel lifestyle. Card Rating*: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

* Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is the card that convinced average consumers that they could come out ahead with a premium credit card even after paying an annual fee of several hundred dollars a year.

In fact, the Sapphire Reserve was so successful from the moment it launched in 2016 (with an initial 100,000-point welcome bonus) that Chase temporarily ran out of the metal slabs needed to produce the cards.

If you have an excellent credit score and want premium benefits, the Sapphire Reserve could be a great option for you. Let's review the features that continue to make it such an attractive travel credit card — one that has earned a permanent spot at the top of many TPG wallets.

Chase Sapphire Reserve pros and cons

Chase sapphire reserve welcome offer.

Right now, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has a welcome offer of 75,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. The standard offer on the Reserve for the last few years has been 60,000 bonus points, so this makes it an excellent opportunity to apply for the card.

With a value of 2.05 cents apiece for Chase Ultimate Rewards points (according to TPG valuations) , the current 75,000-point bonus on the Sapphire Reserve is worth $1,538. That's equivalent to more than three years of its $550 annual fee.

Even if you don't utilize Chase's transfer partners, Sapphire Reserve cardholders get a value of 1.5 cents per Ultimate Rewards point when redeeming for travel in the Chase Travel portal , making the bonus worth $1,125 when redeemed through the portal. Even if you're a novice in the travel rewards field and don't know how to maximize transfer partners, you're guaranteed to get your money's worth in travel from the welcome bonus if you use your points to book travel through the portal.

Remember, too, that booking a flight this way typically counts as a revenue booking. This means you'll earn airline miles and elite credit as well, getting you even more value.

That said, it's important to keep Chase's application restrictions in mind, especially regarding the Sapphire cards. And because of Chase's 5/24 rule , you'll want to apply for Chase cards first before turning to other issuers. That's why picking the right Sapphire product for your situation is critical.

Related: The best time to apply for these Chase cards based on offer history

Chase Sapphire Reserve benefits

The Chase Sapphire Reserve doesn't offer quite as many perks as The Platinum Card® from American Express , but it has plenty of valuable perks to appeal to many travelers. Here are the details on the main benefits of the Sapphire Reserve:

Annual travel credit

One of the biggest benefits of the card is the $300 annual travel credit . Chase will automatically credit your account $300 when you use it to make eligible purchases — which cover a wide variety of travel providers :

Merchants in the travel category include airlines, hotels, motels, timeshares, car rental agencies, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites, campgrounds and operators of passenger trains, buses, taxis, limousines, ferries, toll bridges and highways, and parking lots and garages.

This perk alone lowers your effective annual fee to just $250.

Lounge access

Sapphire Reserve cardholders get access to Chase Sapphire Lounges as well as access to Priority Pass lounges (including restaurants, although this benefit ends June 30 ) for themselves and up to two guests.

travel credit cards global entry

In addition, authorized users receive the same airport lounge access on their own — though you'll pay an extra annual fee of $75 for each additional cardholder.

The Priority Pass network includes some premium lounges , both in the U.S. and abroad. In recent years, Priority Pass also added airport restaurants to its network (you can see the full list here ). American Express cut these restaurants from its Priority Pass benefit in 2019, and Capital One removed this perk as of the start of 2023, but Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders continue to get free food (usually ~$28 per person) at all of these locations through June 30.

Free DoorDash DashPass subscription

Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders qualify for a free DoorDash DashPass subscription through Dec. 31.

travel credit cards global entry

In addition, you'll receive $5 per month in DoorDash credits that roll over two months before expiring, meaning you can save up to $15 to use all at once before expiration.

Lyft benefits

Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders receive 10 points per dollar on Lyft purchases through March 2025. This is akin to getting over a 20% return on Lyft rides since TPG values Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2.05 cents apiece.

Cardholders also receive a complimentary Lyft Pink All Access membership for two years, worth up to $199 annually. Activate by Dec. 31.

Instacart benefits

Cardholders get one year of complimentary Instacart+. Activate by July 31.

Instacart+ members also get up to $15 in statement credits for Instacart purchases each month through July.

Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

Like many other premium cards, the Sapphire Reserve will reimburse you for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck when you charge it to your card. When the Global Entry application fee rises to $120 (currently $100) in October, Chase will adjust this reimbursement accordingly . Remember that Global Entry includes PreCheck, so that's the smarter choice.

travel credit cards global entry

This benefit is available to cardholders once every four years. If you have already enrolled, you can use the credit to cover a friend's or family member's application fee.

Visa Infinite perks

Because the Sapphire Reserve is a Visa Infinite card, you'll receive the perks that come along with the program. Highlights include primary rental car insurance , trip cancellation and delay coverage, lost luggage reimbursement , a concierge service and access to the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection .

Earning points on the Chase Sapphire Reserve

Besides the welcome bonus, the bonus earning categories will also help build your Ultimate Rewards account. Here's an overview of what you'll earn on the card:

  • 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase Travel
  • 10 points per dollar on dining purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • 10 points per dollar on Lyft rides (through March 31, 2025)
  • 10 points per dollar on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases (through March 2025) of $150 or more, with a maximum of 50,000 points
  • 5 points per dollar on flights purchased through Chase Travel
  • 3 points per dollar on all other travel (excluding the $300 annual travel credit) and dining purchases worldwide
  • 1 point per dollar on everything else

Note that you won't earn any points on the first $300 spent on travel purchases each cardmember year, as that will trigger the card's $300 travel credit.

travel credit cards global entry

Once you factor in the $300 travel credit, the annual fee difference between the Sapphire Reserve and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is $155 ($250 versus $95). That means you'd need to earn an extra 7,561 Ultimate Rewards points a year with the Reserve to come out ahead (based on TPG's valuations and without considering any other perks and benefits). You can hit that mark by spending at least $211 monthly on travel (earning at least 3 points per dollar spent) or $631 on everyday purchases (earning 1 point per dollar spent).

Related: Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve worth the annual fee?

Redeeming points on the Chase Sapphire Reserve

The ability to redeem rewards with partners is one of the most important aspects of a travel rewards credit card, and that's definitely the case with the Sapphire Reserve. If you transfer your points to one of Chase's 14 travel partners , there's potential for some amazing redemptions. You could get a two-night stay at a Category 7 Hyatt property or a flight to Europe in Delta One business class (by transferring to Virgin Atlantic) with this bonus alone.

travel credit cards global entry

In addition to redeeming with transfer partners, you can book travel through the Chase Travel portal with points valued at 1.5 cents each. While it's not always the best value, this is a great option for boutique hotels that don't belong to a larger brand, such as Marriott or Hyatt. It's also great for booking flights when cash prices are low.

With the Pay Yourself Back program , you can currently redeem your points at a value of 1.5 cents each at select charities through June 30. You also have the option to use your points to cover gas purchases, pet supply stores or your annual fee at a rate of 1.25 cents apiece through June 30.

If you're new to Chase Ultimate Rewards, make sure to see our guide to redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards for maximum value .

Related: Best sweet spots with Chase Ultimate Rewards

Transferring points on the Chase Sapphire Reserve

Again, the most valuable use of your Chase Ultimate Rewards is to transfer them to one of Chase's 14 airline and hotel transfer partners, including valuable options like British Airways Executive Club , United Airlines MileagePlus and Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards .

travel credit cards global entry

TPG director of content Summer Hull especially loves the option to transfer her points to World of Hyatt , since she can use them to book stays at resorts or city properties that would typically be out of her budget, while others of us at TPG prefer to stay at Category 1 properties to stretch our points as far as possible. No matter how you prefer to use your rewards, you'll find some great transfer options in Chase's list of partners.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

Which cards compete with the Chase Sapphire Reserve?

The Sapphire Reserve's most natural competitors are another card earning the same points but with a lower annual fee and two other premium travel credit cards .

  • If you want a mid-tier card with a lower annual fee: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a good choice for earning Chase Ultimate Rewards points but with a lower annual fee of $95. You'll get numerous travel protections and have access to all the same hotel and airline partners as you would with the Sapphire Reserve. For more information, check out our full review of the Sapphire Preferred .
  • If you want a premium travel card with a lower annual fee: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers access to Priority Pass, Plaza Premium and Capital One lounges but has a lower annual fee of $395 (see rates and fees ). You'll also enjoy insurance protections and earn at least 2 miles per dollar on all purchases plus up to $300 in credits each year. For more information, check out our full review of the Capital One Venture X .
  • If you want more lounge access and credits: The Platinum Card® from American Express offers over $1,500 in annual credits, if you can use all of them. Plus, it offers access to Priority Pass lounges and dozens of others, including the Amex Centurion Lounge network. Enrollment is required. However, the card does have a higher annual fee of $695 (see rates and fees ). For more information, check out our full review of the Amex Platinum .

For additional options, check out our full list of best travel credit cards and best Chase credit cards .

Related: Chase Sapphire showdown: Sapphire Preferred vs. Sapphire Reserve

Bottom line

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is nearly a no-brainer credit card for those who love travel rewards — especially for more frequent travelers.

With 3 points per dollar on travel and dining categories, industry-leading travel protections , valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points and various perks, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of the best credit cards .

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve with 75 ,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum Card, click here .

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

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Credit cards

American Express Platinum CLEAR® Plus benefit guide 2024

Ashley Barnett

Ashley Barnett

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Robin Saks Frankel

Robin Saks Frankel

Published 5:44 a.m. UTC May 29, 2024

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Featured Image

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The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, rates & fees ) is widely recognized as a premier luxury card, known for its wide range of travel credits and exclusive benefits. Amex Platinum cardmembers earn Membership Rewards points, arguably the most valuable reward currency, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels and more. One of its most unique perks is the statement credit for a CLEAR ® Plus membership, worth up to $189 each calendar year (subject to auto-renewal). In this guide, we’ll tell you more about this benefit and how it can enhance your travel experience.

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The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Welcome bonus

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Regular APR

Credit score.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Editor’s take

  • Over $1,500 in travel and entertainment credits can offset the annual fee.
  • Comprehensive lounge access benefit.
  • Generous travel and purchase protections.
  • High annual fee and spending requirements.
  • Amex’s once-per-lifetime rule limits welcome bonus eligibility.
  • Annual statement credits have limited use.

Card details

  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Amex Platinum Card overview

The Amex Platinum card is a high-end card that offers a substantial welcome bonus, exclusive travel perks and over $1,500 in statement credits, including an annual CLEAR Plus statement credit of up to $189 and Uber Cash. You can also take advantage of various extras such as an airline incidental fee statement credit and Membership Rewards® points .

The Amex Platinum card is perfect for individuals willing to invest in a higher annual fee of $695 in return for a wide range of rewards and exceptional benefits. While there are many travel rewards cards , none provide as many travel benefits as the Amex Platinum card.

What is the Amex Platinum CLEAR Plus credit?

With the American Express Platinum card’s CLEAR Plus credit, you will receive an annual statement credit of $189, which completely covers the cost of a membership for an entire year. 

Since the credit renews annually, you’ll enjoy a complimentary CLEAR ® Plus membership each year, as long as you use the card to pay for the CLEAR membership enrollment fee (subject to auto-renewal).

About CLEAR Plus

CLEAR is a membership program that offers the convenience of expedited screening at airports, event venues, stadiums and other locations.

CLEAR Plus, also known as “CLEAR,” uses biometric information, such as fingerprints and/or iris scans, to verify members’ identity and bypass the security lines at U.S. airports and venues nationwide.

Although TSA security is still required, CLEAR allows passengers to bypass the step of presenting an ID and instead have their identification verified at a convenient kiosk. Once verified, a CLEAR representative will escort you to the front of the security line.

You can pair CLEAR with TSA PreCheck® to get through airport security even faster. If you have PreCheck you’ll go to the PreCheck screening lane instead of the standard screening. This means shorter lines and you don’t have to remove your shoes or take your laptop out of your carry-on bag. The Amex Platinum Card also offers an application fee statement credit of up to $100 for a Global Entry fee application credit or a statement credit of up to $85 every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck®.

Which credit cards offer trusted traveler credits? Here’s a guide to the best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

How does the Amex Platinum CLEAR Plus credit work?

To be eligible for the up to $189 statement credit for a CLEAR Plus membership, you must apply for CLEAR Plus online, pay the $189 membership fee using your qualifying Amex Platinum card and complete your enrollment at an airport kiosk. 

After the payment is processed, you can expect to receive your statement credit within a few days. However, please note that American Express has mentioned it may take up to 6-8 weeks in some cases.

How to use your Amex Platinum CLEAR Plus credit

Using your Amex Platinum CLEAR Plus statement credit is quite simple. 

To get started, you’ll need to apply for CLEAR ® Plus . Applicants must be at least 18 years old and the online application process can be completed in just a few minutes. 

After completing the application, you must use your Amex Platinum card to qualify for the credit. 

After completing enrollment and payment, you can easily finalize enrolling in CLEAR Plus by visiting any CLEAR airport location during your next flight. No appointment is necessary, but remember to bring your government-issued I.D..

During the final enrollment process, a CLEAR representative will kindly assist you by scanning your face, logging your fingerprint and requesting a copy of your boarding pass. The process only takes a few minutes of your time, so there’s no need to arrive excessively early for your flight just to complete your CLEAR enrollment.

Maximizing your CLEAR Plus credit: Get multiple memberships with your CLEAR benefit

The regular cost for a CLEAR Plus membership is $189 per year. Nevertheless, there are strategies to maximize your CLEAR Plus credit and get a reduced rate on a CLEAR Plus membership.

To begin, every person 18 or older must have their own CLEAR Plus membership if they want to enjoy expedited screening through CLEAR. Children under 18 are not required to have their own CLEAR Plus membership. Instead, they are automatically covered under their parent’s CLEAR Plus membership.

Since your Amex Platinum card only gives you one CLEAR Plus credit per year, here are some other ways to get a complimentary or discounted CLEAR Plus membership. 

  • Annually, Delta SkyMiles Diamond Medallion® members receive a complimentary CLEAR Plus membership. 
  • Annually, United MileagePlus Premier 1K members receive a complimentary CLEAR Plus membership. 
  • Delta SkyMiles Platinum, Gold and Silver Medallion members and those who possess a co-branded Delta SkyMiles Credit Card can purchase a discounted CLEAR Plus membership for $149.
  • United MileagePlus Platinum, Gold and Silver Premier members and those who have a co-branded United MileagePlus Credit Card can get a discounted CLEAR Plus membership for $149.
  • Members of the Delta SkyMiles or United MileagePlus loyalty programs receive a $179 annual discount on CLEAR Plus membership.
  • Active duty military personnel and veterans can enjoy a CLEAR Plus membership for $99 annually.

Additional Amex Platinum benefits worth noting for your next trip

Marriott and hilton elite status.

As one of the best travel rewards cards , the Amex Platinum card allows you to obtain mid-tier elite hotel status with two of the biggest hotel chains in the world just for keeping your card. 

The Platinum Card provides a range of travel perks, including Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status (upon enrollment). This elite status may include perks such as bonus points, upgrades and complimentary breakfast when staying at Hilton and Marriott hotels.

Up to $100 statement credit for enrolling in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

In addition to CLEAR Plus, most passengers enroll in TSA PreCheck to get the best possible expedited screening at the airport. With this combo, you can quickly go to the front of the TSA line and avoid a long security queue. 

In addition to the annual up to $189 CLEAR Plus statement credit that comes with the Amex Platinum card, cardholders may also get either a credit for Global Entry ($100) every four years or a credit for TSA PreCheck ($85) every 4.5 years (for a 5-year TSA PreCheck plan only). 

Note that you receive TSA PreCheck automatically when enrolling in Global Entry, so for most people it’s best to register for Global Entry and take advantage of a seamless screening process next time you’re at the airport. 

Access to Airport Lounges

Worldwide lounge access is not limited to flying a specific airline or purchasing a business or first-class ticket. With your Amex Platinum card, you can access over 1,400 lounge properties in 140 countries worldwide. This includes the extensive network of Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required) and access to Amex’s swanky Centurion Lounges , along with the Delta Sky Clubs (available when flying Delta on the same day).

Travel protections

If any issues arise during your travels, rest assured that Amex Platinum cardmembers are provided with comprehensive travel protections.

If your trip is delayed for over six hours due to a covered reason, you may be eligible for reimbursement of up to $500 per covered trip, with up to two claims per consecutive 12-month period¹. Even worse, if your trip is canceled or interrupted for a covered reason, you may be able to get up to $10,000 back per covered trip and $20,000 back per card every 12 months².

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

An up to $189 CLEAR Plus statement credit is available on four American Express cards: The American Express Platinum Card, the American Express Corporate Platinum Card, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express * The information for the The Business Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. (terms apply) and the American Express® Green Card * The information for the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. (terms apply).

All information about American Express® Green Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint.

The CLEAR Plus airport service costs $189 per year, while the general CLEAR service is available for free at stadiums and arenas across the U.S. after signing up and downloading the app.

If you often travel from participating airports and value efficiency in getting through security, CLEAR Plus is a worthwhile investment — especially when you can get it for free.

While CLEAR is a private company that operates at more than 50 airports, stadiums and other events nationwide, TSA PreCheck is provided by the government at more than 200 airports. 

CLEAR can expedite your access into airports, stadiums and other events, whereas TSA PreCheck just speeds up your experience going through airport security.

You will receive a complimentary CLEAR ® Plus membership each year you hold certain Amex cards, such as the Amex Platinum card, as the credit renews each year (enrollment is required). The American Express CLEAR Plus credit provides a $189 statement credit that completely covers the cost of a one-year CLEAR ® Plus membership.

For rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page .

¹Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

²The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

*The information for the American Express® Green Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Juan Ruiz

Juan is a freelance editor and writer who specializes in topics such as credit cards, travel, and loyalty programs. You can find his writing on a variety of websites like CNN, Forbes, The Points Guy, and many more. When Juan isn’t busy creating content, he loves going on exciting travel adventures around the world with his wife and three young daughters. You can connect with Juan on Twitter and Instagram as @doubledutydaddy.

Ashley Barnett has been writing and editing personal finance articles for the internet since 2008. Before editing for USA TODAY Blueprint, she was the Content Director for an international media company leading the content on their suite of personal finance sites. She lives in Phoenix, AZ where you can find her rereading Harry Potter for the 100th time.

Robin Saks Frankel is a credit cards lead editor at USA TODAY Blueprint. Previously, she was a credit cards and personal finance deputy editor for Forbes Advisor. She has also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She's been featured as a personal finance expert in outlets including CNBC, Business Insider, CBS Marketplace, NASDAQ's Trade Talks and has appeared on or contributed to The New York Times, Fox News, CBS Radio, ABC Radio, NPR, International Business Times and NBC, ABC and CBS TV affiliates nationwide. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University. Follow her on Twitter at @robinsaks.

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travel credit cards global entry

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Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

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  • Trusted Traveler Programs
  • Global Entry

Global Entry Card

Global Entry cards are issued to Global Entry members who are U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents and Mexican nationals.  

Activating Your Global Entry Card

To activate your card, log into your Trusted Traveler Program (TPP) account. After you log in, click on the “Activate Membership Card” button under the Program Membership(s) section.  

Using Your Global Entry Card

We accept Global Entry cards for lawful U.S. entry at land and sea ports of entry.

Global Entry cards have radio frequency identification chips, which enable their use at Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) and NEXUS travel lanes when entering the United States at the land borders. You must follow all program rules for SENTRI when using this card at the Southern land border ports of entry.

You may use this card for expedited entry into the United States via the SENTRI and NEXUS lanes. The card is not valid for entry into Canada via the NEXUS lanes.

Only your passport or lawful permanent resident card are accepted at Global Entry kiosks. The Global Entry card cannot be used at Global Entry kiosks. NEXUS cards are accepted at Global Entry kiosks located on Canadian Preclearance Airports.

IMAGES

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    United℠ Explorer Card. Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. Annual fee of $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. Application fee reimbursement every 4 years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS. Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card. Earn 50,000 miles after you spend ...

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    Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card. Global Entry Benefit: $85 statement credit every 4 years. Annual Fee: $0. Card Earnings: 2x miles per $1 on airfare, hotels, and car rentals; 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases; UBS UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card. Global Entry Benefit: $100 statement credit every 4 years. Annual Fee: $495. Card Earnings: 3x ...

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    Note that on Oct. 1, 2024, the Global Entry application fee will increase to $120. Citi credit cards and Chase credit cards with a Global Entry fee credit (such as the Citi AAdvantage Executive ...

  8. Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry for May 2024

    The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card* strikes the best balance between annual fee, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry Credit and rewards program. The cost is $95 annually, but that fee will be ...

  9. Best Credit Cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck in 2024

    With the lowest fee of premium travel credit cards, a flexible travel credit, valuable ongoing rewards and other travel perks, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the best card with a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit. Find your perfect card in 30 seconds. Check your approval odds so you can shop smarter.

  10. Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry 2024

    U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card. U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card. Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card. Many of the best travel rewards cards ...

  11. 10 Credit Cards That Cover Global Entry & TSA PreCheck Costs (2023

    The best travel credit cards that cover Global Entry and TSA PreCheck costs: The following credit cards are presented in order of lowest annual fee to highest. United Explorer Card. Capital One ...

  12. 7 Credit Cards That Can Get You Global Entry & TSA PreCheck

    The card offers a slew of premium benefits like a $300 annual travel credit for bookings made via the Capital One Travel Portal, Capital One Lounge access as well as access to Priority Pass lounges, and a credit of up to $100 to cover the cost of enrolling in either Global Entry or PreCheck. All that for a $395 annual fee - a fraction of what ...

  13. The Best Credit Cards That Pay for TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry

    3x points on travel, free Amazon Prime subscription. Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card. $95. Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. Venture Rewards from Capital One. $95.

  14. The best credit cards for Global Entry in 2024

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve is widely regarded as one of the best travel credit cards on the market, and for good reason. One of its standout features is the $100 Global Entry application fee credit, issued every four years. This $100 credit applies to Global Entry and other trusted traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck and Nexus.

  15. 17 Best Credit Cards That Cover TSA PreCheck + Global Entry

    Here's how your travel credit card can get you Global Entry and/or TSA PreCheck for free. 17 credit cards that cover Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fees. Travel credit cards feature a variety of benefits to help offset annual fees. One of the most popular is a statement credit every four years up to $100 every four years after you ...

  16. Credit cards that can help you get Global Entry

    Several Chase credit cards offer a travel benefit that can reimburse the fee to apply for Global Entry. TSA PreCheck ® and NEXUS fees are also eligible for reimbursement. To be eligible, you'll still have to complete the Global Entry application process, then pay the nonrefundable fee with an eligible card, such as Chase Sapphire Reserve ®.

  17. The Top 8 Cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

    The Top Cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95 annual fee, waived the first year) — credit every four years. United Explorer Card ($95 annual fee, waived the first year) — credit every four years. IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card ($89 annual fee) — credit every four years.

  18. Truist Enjoy Travel Miles Rewards Credit Card

    Travel rewards. Your next destination could come even sooner. Earn 2x miles per $1 spent on airfare, car rentals, and hotels. Earn 1x miles per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases. 5 Plus, a statement credit up to $85 for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry® fee is awarded once every four years. 5. See rates, fees & rewards.

  19. Global Entry Vs. TSA PreCheck: Which Is Better?

    As with TSA PreCheck, many top travel credit cards offer statement credits to cover the cost of your Global Entry application fee — which is good because Global Entry is a little more expensive ...

  20. How to get TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear for free or at a

    Normally, a five-year membership to TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85, while five years of Global Entry runs you $100. Two providers manage TSA applications. You'll pay $78 to apply through IDEMIA and $85 through Telos. Renewing costs $70 if you do it online through either provider. If you have a Global Entry membership, you also receive the ...

  21. Best Credit Cards For Global Entry Reimbursement

    Some of the top travel credit cards include a $100 statement credit to cover the application costs for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership once every four years. Here is a comparison of ...

  22. How to Apply for Global Entry

    1. Create a TTP account online. When you begin the Global Entry application at the CBP website, an account is required regardless of your age. 2. Log in to your TTP account and finish the application. As of May 2024, the one-time application fee for Global Entry is $100.

  23. Global Entry

    Last Modified: Oct 25, 2023. Trusted Traveler Program Enrollment Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States by accessing the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports.

  24. Chase Sapphire Reserve card review: Full details

    Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. Like many other premium cards, the Sapphire Reserve will reimburse you for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck when you charge it to your card. When the Global Entry application fee rises to $120 (currently $100) in October, Chase will adjust this reimbursement ...

  25. American Express Platinum CLEAR Plus Benefit Guide 2024

    The Amex Platinum Card also offers an application fee statement credit of up to $100 for a Global Entry fee application credit or a statement credit of up to $85 every 4.5 years after you apply ...

  26. Global Entry Card

    Global Entry cards are issued to Global Entry members who are U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents and Mexican nationals. Activating Your Global Entry Card