If you travel frequently and are looking for a way to save time when traveling, you may be considering applying for SENTRI or Global Entry. If you're comparing SENTRI versus Global Entry to decide which is best, you'll need to understand how the programs differ.

This guide outlines the difference between Global Entry and SENTRI so you can choose which program is right for you.

SENTRI

What is it?

The Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program. Once enrolled in the program, travelers get expedited entry when arriving by vehicle to the United States from Mexico and Canada.

While SENTRI cards can be used when entering the United States after traveling in Canada, the program is geared towards those who frequently travel between Mexico and the United States. For that reason, all enrollment center locations are near the southern border.

Travelers must be preapproved for the SENTRI program, undergo a background check and attend an in-person interview as part of the application process.

The SENTRI membership fee is $122.25 per person; if approved, membership lasts five years. If you're traveling by car, every passenger must have their own SENTRI pass.

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SENTRI includes Global Entry perks

Does SENTRI include Global Entry? Yes. While the program is designed to expedite entry into the United States when traveling from Mexico or Canada, SENTRI cardholders also get TSA PreCheck and Global Entry benefits.

SENTRI cardholders can use Global Entry kiosks once the U.S. Customs and Border Protection has fingerprints and document information on file. However, Mexican nationals who have SENTRI must apply for Global Entry.

Who is eligible?

The following travelers are eligible to enroll in the SENTRI program:

U.S. citizens.

U.S. lawful permanent residents.

All foreign nationals.

How SENTRI works

Once approved, travelers receive a SENTRI card. They can then use this card when traveling to the United States from Canada or Mexico. When going through the SENTRI lane with a card, the system automatically populates your vehicle and passenger information for a speedy entry.

How to apply for SENTRI

Follow these steps to apply for a SENTRI membership:

Create a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account.

Log in and complete a SENTRI application.

Pay a nonrefundable application fee.

If your application is conditionally approved, you'll be instructed to schedule an interview at a SENTRI Enrollment Center.

Be sure to bring all required documentation to your interview, including:

Vehicle registration.

Evidence of U.S. automobile insurance.

Passport.

An alternate form of identification.

Cards that cover the cost of SENTRI

At this time, there are no credit cards that cover the cost of SENTRI.

Global Entry

What is it?

Global Entry allows preapproved travelers to receive expedited clearance at select airports when arriving in the U.S. after traveling abroad. Global Entry is available at more than 50 U.S. airports.

Does Global Entry include SENTRI? Yes. You can use your Global Entry card through SENTRI or NEXUS lanes to expedite entry into the United States after traveling from Mexico or Canada. However, you can't use your Global Entry card to travel through NEXUS lanes when traveling to Canada. You would need a separate NEXUS membership to do so.

Travelers must apply for Global Entry and then participate in an in-person interview and background check to be considered for the program. The Global Entry application fee is $100; membership lasts five years if approved.