Global entry?

I enter the US only once a year, so I'm now using Mobile Passport instead of paying for Global Entry.
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control

same as Elizabeth.

And just note TSA pre-check only helps you in US airports, not on returning to USA. I also have used Mobile Passport and it worked great. Here is a recent conversation on the same topic https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy/global-trusted-traveler

Me four.

I just use the Mobile Passport Control app. Coming home through Dulles mid-field immigration, I'm through in just a couple minutes and usually the only one going through the line.

TSA pre-check is included when you pay for Global Entry - so if you're going to buy something, I'd spring for GE. I agree that Mobile Passport works great now, but I suspect once more people start using it, those lines will grow.

Go for global entry

I've had Global Entry for several years. The last 2 times I returned to the US I did not even really have to slow down. The GE kiosk took my picture as I headed to the booth and most recently, in SLC, the agent stood up, leaned out of his booth, called my name as I was walking toward him and said...Did you buy any more than you usually do? No, I said. You are good to go, he says and I literally did not stop. I WAS in a hurry as I had a very short transit time and made it with time to spare.

I may try the mobile passport once my current eligibility runs out.

My son just returned from Athens landing in Seattle. The flight attendants on his flight recommended that everyone use MobilePassport because three international flights very all coming in about the same time. He already had it and was the only person in the line. I've used it successfully for years at several different airports and have never been in line with more than two people.

Get a credit card that reimburses the GE cost then the choice is easy.

I'm going to swim against the tide and suggest Pre-check paired with Mobile Passport for international arrivals (assuming your airport supports it). The issue with Global Entry is getting the required interview. They are often booked months in advance and are only available in a small number of locations. There is the option of Enrollment on Arrival (again, assuming your airport supports that option). In addition, Enrollment on Departure is offered at Dulles and Atlanta.

And it sounds like it might be getting more difficult to obtain……“The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plans to tighten vetting procedures for Global Entry in Q1 of 2025. Under the Trump administration's leadership, enhanced screening methods and stricter eligibility criteria are expected to be implemented.
These changes stem from promises to bolster national security through a more rigorous examination of applicants and current enrollees.” From AR International Consulting Newsletter

We have Global entry. This past November, we returned from an Egypt/Jordan trip. The agent waved us through, we didn't have to stop. Looked in viewer, never opened passport and we were done. Hardly broke our stride. This was at the Atlanta's Hartsfield Jackson International airport.

enhanced screening methods and stricter eligibility criteria are expected to be implemented.

This will jibe well with reduced staffing levels.

Just what I was thinking, Toby

GE and TSA-Pre are two different programs for two different purposes. It's just that both provide you with a Trusted Traveler Number which allows you to get through the security screening a bit easier when boarding flights in the US. GE's main benefit is that it allows you expedited entry through passport control and customs on the return to the US. Neither have any benefit for foreign countries' security or entry. So only you can judge whether the additional cost and hassle for GE is worth it to you.

Global Entry with PreCheck is not that more expensive that PreCheck alone. With so many credit cards reimbursing either, why apply for PreCheck. Mobile Passport can be used until interview completed.

Neither have any benefit for foreign countries' security or entry.

Yes and no. With Global Entry, you are entitled to use the expedited entry lanes in Australia and New Zealand. But there are some restrictions.

You can also apply for similar programs in Germany and South Korea.

Things may have changed since 2019, but when I took my elderly uncle to Germany I was not able to utilize Mobile Passport on our return because he didn’t have a cell phone and there was no way to use my app for the two of us. Since then I have gotten Global Entry (it was only $15 more than TSA precheck) and it is totally worth it in my opinion. If you don’t fly much, especially internationally, Mobile Passport is probably adequate.

Andrea, you are now allowed to put your traveling companion in your MPC app. I breezed through Philly Saturday using MPC for myself and adult son.

@Kathy, that’s good to know. Thanks. I wonder if that only works if you have the same last name?

I installed the MPC app just on my phone for me and my partner. It worked perfectly on our last reentry. It's easy to maintain two passengers.