Understanding the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Global Entry
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a popular rewards credit card known for its strong travel benefits. Among its most valued perks is a statement credit that can be used to offset the cost of applying for Global Entry. This program, administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to receive expedited clearance through U.S. airports and other ports of entry. The question of whether your Sapphire Preferred card covers this fee is a common one for frequent travelers looking to maximize their card's value.
For many cardholders, the Global Entry benefit is a primary reason for choosing the Sapphire Preferred. It simplifies international travel by reducing wait times and streamlining the customs process. This feature is particularly appealing because the Global Entry application fee can be a barrier for some, and having it covered by a credit card offers substantial savings and convenience. Understanding the specifics of this benefit ensures you can take full advantage of it.
Global Entry is not just about arriving in the United States; it also includes TSA PreCheck® benefits when departing from U.S. airports. This means you can enjoy expedited security screening domestically as well. The combination of faster customs and immigration processing upon arrival and quicker security checks before departure makes it a highly sought-after program for those who travel frequently.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card, by offering this reimbursement, directly addresses the cost associated with obtaining these travel conveniences. It positions the card as a premium choice for travelers who value efficiency and a smoother journey. The process to claim this benefit is typically straightforward, but it requires knowing how to use your card correctly for the purchase and how to ensure you receive the credit.
The core value of the Sapphire Preferred's Global Entry benefit lies in its direct reimbursement of the application fee, simplifying travel for cardholders.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. government program managed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It allows U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of select foreign countries to be pre-approved for expedited U.S. immigration and customs inspection. Once approved, members can use automated kiosks at select ports of entry, significantly reducing their waiting times.
To enroll in Global Entry, applicants must complete an online application through the CBP's Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. This application involves providing personal information, travel history, and answering various background questions. Following an initial review, eligible applicants will be invited for an in-person interview at one of the program's enrollment centers, or sometimes through a program called Enrollment on Arrival at select airports.
The application fee for Global Entry is currently $100 for a five-year membership. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied. It is this fee that the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is designed to cover, providing a valuable reimbursement to its cardholders.
What is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a flagship travel rewards credit card issued by Chase. It is renowned for its generous rewards program, earning points on travel and dining purchases that can be redeemed for a variety of travel options, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, often with a bonus value when booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Beyond its rewards earning potential, the card offers a suite of benefits designed to enhance the travel experience.
These benefits include robust travel insurance coverage, purchase protection, and importantly, statement credits for certain travel-related expenses. The Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit is one of the most significant of these benefits, offering a direct financial advantage to cardholders who use the program. It's a key differentiator that appeals to frequent flyers and international travelers.
The card typically comes with an annual fee, but for many, the value derived from its rewards and benefits, especially the Global Entry credit, far outweighs this cost. It has consistently been ranked as one of the top travel credit cards for good reason, balancing earning potential with practical, high-value travel perks.
How the Chase Sapphire Preferred Global Entry Benefit Works
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card provides a statement credit to reimburse you for the application fee of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. This benefit is typically offered once every five years, aligning with the renewal cycle of these trusted traveler programs. To receive the credit, you must use your Sapphire Preferred card to pay the application fee for either program.
The credit is usually applied automatically as a statement credit to your account within a few billing cycles after the charge appears. It is important to note that the credit is for the application fee itself, which is $100 for Global Entry. If you pay for TSA PreCheck ($78), you will receive a credit for that amount. The card typically covers one application fee per eligible member, every five years.
This means that if you are approved for Global Entry and pay the $100 fee with your Sapphire Preferred card, you will see a $100 statement credit appear on your account, effectively making the application free for you. This is a significant saving, as the benefit of expedited clearance through customs and security is considerable for frequent travelers.
To activate this valuable perk, simply use your Sapphire Preferred card for the Global Entry application fee.
Steps to Utilize the Global Entry Benefit
Utilizing the Global Entry statement credit from your Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a straightforward process, designed to be as seamless as possible for cardholders. Follow these steps to ensure you receive your reimbursement:
- Apply for Global Entry: Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website (www.cbp.gov/tpp) and complete the online application for Global Entry.
- Pay the Application Fee: During the application process, you will be prompted to pay the non-refundable application fee, which is currently $100. Ensure you use your Chase Sapphire Preferred card for this transaction.
- Get Approved: Complete the interview process and await your approval for the Global Entry program.
- Receive the Statement Credit: After your charge for the Global Entry application fee appears on your Chase Sapphire Preferred statement, Chase will automatically issue a statement credit for the amount of the fee (up to $100). This typically happens within 1-2 billing cycles.
- Check Your Statement: Review your credit card statements to confirm that the statement credit has been applied.
It is crucial to use the correct card for the payment. If you use a different card or a third-party payment service not directly linked to the Sapphire Preferred card for the fee, you may not receive the credit. The benefit is tied to using the specific card for the direct payment of the application fee.
Understanding the Reimbursement Cycle
The statement credit for the Global Entry application fee is typically issued once every five years. This aligns with the validity period of a Global Entry membership. If you have already received this credit within the last five years for yourself or a family member (if allowed by the card issuer's terms), you may not be eligible to receive it again until the five-year period has passed.
Chase usually processes these credits automatically once the qualifying charge is posted to your account. However, the timing can vary. It is generally recommended to allow up to two full billing cycles for the credit to appear on your statement after the charge has been made. If, after this period, the credit has not materialized, it is advisable to contact Chase customer service for clarification.
Always keep a record of your application and payment. This can be helpful if there are any discrepancies or if you need to follow up with Chase regarding the credit. The benefit is designed to be passive for the cardholder once the initial payment is made, but vigilance in checking statements ensures you don't miss out.
Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which Does Sapphire Preferred Cover?
A common point of clarification regarding this benefit is whether the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card covers Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or both. The good news for travelers is that the card typically provides a statement credit that can be used for the application fee of either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. This dual coverage significantly increases the card's appeal, as travelers can choose the program that best suits their needs.
Global Entry is generally considered more comprehensive, as it includes TSA PreCheck benefits. However, TSA PreCheck alone is beneficial for domestic travel and departures from U.S. airports. The application fee for Global Entry is $100, while TSA PreCheck is $78. The Sapphire Preferred card's benefit usually covers up to $100, meaning it will fully reimburse the cost of Global Entry and also cover TSA PreCheck, with a small amount left over if you choose TSA PreCheck.
This flexibility means that whether your priority is expedited customs upon arrival in the U.S. or faster security lines when flying domestically, your Sapphire Preferred card can help offset the cost. It's a practical benefit that caters to a wide range of travel preferences and habits.
The Sapphire Preferred credit covers the application fee for both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, offering significant flexibility.
Understanding the Distinction
While both programs expedite travel, they serve slightly different primary functions. Global Entry focuses on streamlining your re-entry into the United States. When you arrive at a U.S. port of entry, you can use a Global Entry kiosk to clear customs and immigration more quickly than waiting in the standard lines. This is particularly advantageous for international travelers returning to the U.S.
TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, is managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and focuses on expedited security screening at U.S. airports. Members are typically allowed to leave their shoes, belts, and light jackets on and can leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags. This makes the security process much faster and more convenient for domestic and international flights departing from the U.S.
Crucially, a significant overlap exists: Global Entry members automatically receive TSA PreCheck benefits. Therefore, by applying for and getting approved for Global Entry, you gain the advantages of both programs. This is why many travelers opt for Global Entry when their credit card offers a benefit that covers its higher fee.
Is Telos the Same as TSA PreCheck?
No, Telos is not the same as TSA PreCheck, though it is a company that facilitates the application process for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. Telos offers its own identity verification and security services, and through its "Get You Through" program, it allows individuals to apply for TSA PreCheck. While Telos provides a convenient application portal and often uses advanced biometric technology, the underlying program is still TSA PreCheck, managed by the TSA.
Similarly, some companies offer services that help users navigate the Global Entry application. However, Global Entry itself is a program run by CBP. The statement credit from your Sapphire Preferred card applies to the official government application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, regardless of which authorized provider you use for the application process, as long as you use your card for the fee payment. It's important to ensure you are paying the official government fee to be eligible for the credit.
What If My Application Isn't Approved?
A crucial detail to understand about the Global Entry and TSA PreCheck programs is that their application fees are non-refundable. This means that if your application is denied for any reason, the fee you paid will not be returned to you. This applies regardless of whether you used a credit card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card to pay the fee.
However, the statement credit provided by Chase is typically issued as soon as the charge for the application fee appears on your account and posts. It is not contingent on your approval for the program. So, even if your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application is ultimately denied, you will still likely receive the statement credit from Chase. This makes the risk of paying the fee slightly lower, as you won't be out of pocket for the application cost itself, even if you don't gain access to the program.
Remember, the statement credit is generally issued upon payment of the fee, not upon program approval.
Can You Get TSA PreCheck with a Misdemeanor?
Eligibility for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can be affected by criminal history, including misdemeanors. While not all misdemeanors will disqualify an applicant, certain types of offenses, particularly those involving national security, serious crimes, or recent convictions, can lead to denial. CBP and the TSA conduct thorough background checks as part of the application process.
If you have a misdemeanor on your record, it is advisable to review the specific disqualifying offenses listed by CBP. For instance, convictions for certain felonies, espionage, treason, or crimes that indicate a propensity for untrustworthy behavior can be grounds for denial. If you have concerns, you can check your criminal history record and, if necessary, seek to have it expunged or provide additional documentation to CBP to explain the circumstances.
The CBP website provides detailed guidelines on criminal record eligibility. It's essential to be truthful and thorough in your application, as any misrepresentation can also lead to disqualification. If you are unsure about your specific situation, you can contact CBP directly or consult legal counsel.
How Far in Advance Can I Renew My TSA PreCheck?
You can renew your TSA PreCheck membership up to one year before your current membership expires. The renewal process is typically much simpler than the initial application. For most renewals, you can complete the process online without needing an in-person interview, provided your circumstances haven't significantly changed.
Renewing early ensures that you don't experience any lapse in your membership benefits. If your membership expires, you will need to go through the full application process again, including the interview, to regain TSA PreCheck status. The five-year membership period begins from the date your application is approved.
It is good practice to check the expiration date of your membership and initiate the renewal process well in advance. This also gives you time to ensure you are using the correct payment method with your Chase Sapphire Preferred card to receive the statement credit again, provided you are within the five-year eligibility window for the credit.
TSA PreCheck Benefits Liquids and Other Restrictions
One of the most convenient aspects of TSA PreCheck is the relaxation of certain restrictions during the security screening process. Unlike standard security lines, TSA PreCheck lanes allow you to keep many items in your carry-on bag, which significantly speeds up the process. This includes leaving your laptop in its case and your approved liquids (under 3.4 ounces or 100 ml) in your bag.
This means you don't need to remove your laptop or take out your quart-sized bag of liquids for separate screening. This particular benefit is a major time-saver and reduces the hassle of packing and repacking your carry-on. The goal is to make the security checkpoint experience as efficient as possible for trusted travelers.
While many restrictions are relaxed for TSA PreCheck, it's important to remember that prohibited items are still prohibited. For example, weapons, explosives, and other dangerous items are not allowed in carry-on baggage, regardless of your TSA PreCheck status. Always check the TSA's official website for a comprehensive list of prohibited items before you travel.
The primary TSA PreCheck benefit is the ability to keep laptops and liquids in your carry-on bag.
Is Sky Priority the Same as TSA PreCheck?
No, SkyPriority is not the same as TSA PreCheck, although both relate to expedited airport experiences. SkyPriority is an airline-specific program, primarily offered by Delta Air Lines and its partners, that provides priority services for eligible passengers. These services can include priority check-in, priority boarding, and priority baggage handling.
TSA PreCheck, conversely, is a government-run program managed by the TSA that expedites the security screening process. While a passenger might have both SkyPriority status and TSA PreCheck, they are distinct benefits. SkyPriority is about airline services, while TSA PreCheck is about security screening. Your Chase Sapphire Preferred card benefit covers the application fee for TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry), not for airline-specific programs like SkyPriority.
How Much is TSA PreCheck Through Clear?
Clear is a separate identity verification service that offers expedited passage through security checkpoints. While Clear is not the same as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, it often partners with these programs. You can enroll in TSA PreCheck through Clear, but the cost structure is different from applying directly through the TSA.
Clear's own membership fee is typically around $179 per year. However, if you are a member of TSA PreCheck (which you can get with your Sapphire Preferred card benefit), you can often link your accounts. This allows you to use Clear's expedited lanes and then proceed to the TSA PreCheck security screening, combining both services for an even faster experience. In some cases, premium credit cards might offer a discount or full reimbursement for Clear membership, but this is separate from the TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit.
When applying for TSA PreCheck through Clear, you will still pay the TSA PreCheck application fee ($78), and your Sapphire Preferred card can cover this. However, Clear's annual membership fee is a separate charge and is not covered by the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit offered by the card.
Clear offers a separate expedited screening service, which can be combined with TSA PreCheck for enhanced speed.
Can You Use Your Global Entry Card for TSA?
While Global Entry is primarily designed for expedited entry into the United States, its membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck benefits. This means you do not need a separate Global Entry card to use TSA PreCheck security lanes when departing from U.S. airports. Your Global Entry membership number, often referred to as your Known Traveler Number (KTN), is what you provide when booking flights or to your airline.
When you book a flight with a participating airline, you will enter your KTN in the designated field. This tells the airline that you are eligible for TSA PreCheck. Your boarding pass will then be printed with a TSA PreCheck indicator (e.g., 'TSA PreCheck'), which you show to the TSA officer at the security checkpoint. If you have Global Entry, you can use this indicator just as if you had applied directly for TSA PreCheck. You don't carry a physical 'Global Entry card' to use at TSA checkpoints; it's the KTN and the indicator on your boarding pass that matter.
Is TSA PreCheck and Global Entry the Same Thing?
No, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are not the same thing, though they are closely related and often confused. Both are U.S. government programs designed to expedite traveler processing, but they serve different primary functions and are administered by different agencies.
Global Entry is managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and focuses on expediting re-entry into the United States. It allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to use automated kiosks at U.S. ports of entry, significantly reducing time spent in customs and immigration lines. The application fee is $100 and it is valid for five years.
TSA PreCheck is managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and focuses on expediting security screening at U.S. airports. Members can enjoy faster security lines, typically without needing to remove shoes, belts, laptops, or liquids from their carry-on bags. The application fee is $78 and it is valid for five years.
The key overlap is that Global Entry membership includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck. So, if you have Global Entry, you automatically qualify for TSA PreCheck and can use its expedited security lanes. However, having TSA PreCheck does not grant you the benefits of Global Entry for customs and immigration upon arrival in the U.S.
Maximizing Your Chase Sapphire Preferred Travel Benefits
The Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit is just one of many travel perks offered by the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. To truly maximize its value, it's beneficial to understand and utilize its other features. These can include robust travel insurance, including trip cancellation/interruption, trip delay reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, and primary rental car insurance.
Additionally, the card offers bonus points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards and dining. These points can be redeemed for travel at a higher value when transferred to airline or hotel partners. By strategically using the card for travel bookings and everyday expenses that align with bonus categories, you can accumulate rewards quickly.
Consider using the card for all your travel bookings, including flights, hotels, rental cars, and even ride-sharing services, to earn the most points and be covered by the card's extensive travel protections. The Global Entry credit is a fantastic way to start your journey with enhanced convenience, but it's the sum of all benefits that makes the Sapphire Preferred a top-tier travel card.
Leveraging all the travel protections and bonus categories of the Sapphire Preferred amplifies its overall value.
What to Compare When Choosing a Trusted Traveler Program
When deciding between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, or considering other trusted traveler programs, several factors are worth comparing. The primary difference, as discussed, is the scope of benefits and the administering agency. Global Entry offers both expedited customs upon arrival and expedited security, while TSA PreCheck focuses solely on airport security.
Cost: Global Entry costs $100 for five years, while TSA PreCheck costs $78 for five years. The Sapphire Preferred card covers up to $100, so it fully reimburses Global Entry. If you fly frequently internationally and re-enter the U.S. often, Global Entry is usually the better investment due to its comprehensive benefits.
Eligibility: Both programs have specific eligibility requirements, including background checks. Some individuals with certain criminal records or past immigration violations may be denied for one or both programs. It's essential to review the CBP's criteria.
Interview Requirements: Both programs generally require an interview. However, Global Entry and TSA PreCheck offer 'Enrollment on Arrival' options at select airports, allowing you to complete your interview upon returning to the U.S. after an international trip or at a dedicated enrollment center.
Availability: TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports in the U.S., while Global Entry kiosks are available at over 50 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance locations in foreign countries. The availability of enrollment centers for interviews can also vary by location.
Ultimately, the best program for you depends on your travel habits. If you frequently travel internationally and re-enter the U.S., Global Entry is often the superior choice due to its broader benefits and the fact that it includes TSA PreCheck. If your travel is primarily domestic or you only fly internationally from U.S. airports, TSA PreCheck might suffice.