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Trusted Traveler programs help eligible travelers expedite their passage through border security at US airports and land and sea ports.

A lesser-known program for travelers who frequently cross the US-Canada border is Nexus. What’s generally less known is that Nexus also includes Global Entry (and thus TSA PreCheck) membership for just an extra $50.

Wondering if Nexus might be the right program for you? Here’s what you need to know.

How does Nexus work?

U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian lawful permanent residents, and Mexican citizens who are related to Mexico’s equivalent program (Viajero Reliable) is eligible for Nexus. Those under the age of 18 must have the consent of a parent or legal guardian to participate.

Nexus offers expedited processing services to prescreened travelers when entering the US and Canada by plane, car or boat. It uses only nexus processing lanes at designated ports of entry along the northern border; Nexus Kiosks when entering Canada by air; and when arriving at one of the nine Global Entry kiosks Canadian preclearance airport In Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Alberta. Global Entry Cards provide Nexus access when entering the US but are not valid for entry into Canada through Nexus lanes or kiosks.

Nexus Application Process

Travelers can apply for a Nexus membership online, after which they will be prompted to arrange a face-to-face visit. Enrollment Center.

Currently, there are 15 enrollment locations in Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, North Dakota, Vermont, Washington, and Canada.

As of 2023, the average processing time for Nexus is 18 to 20 months, so plan accordingly.

Like other Trusted Traveler programs, Nexus membership is valid for five years. Adult applicants must pay a non-refundable $50 application fee.

The Canada Border Services Agency and US Customs and Border Protection advise Nexus holders to renew their applications one year prior to expiration.

Nexus card

Upon approval, Nexus members receive a membership identification card by mail to use when entering Canada or the US at designated Nexus entries.

To activate your Nexus Card, simply log into your Trusted Traveler Program account and click the “Activate Membership Card” button in the “Program Membership(s)” section.

Once your membership is activated, plan to carry your card (plus your passport and/or proof of permanent residency) with you whenever you travel. CBP recommends this to ensure that you can provide sufficient proof of citizenship or permanent residence status if required.

If you lose your Nexus card, a $25 replacement fee will apply.

Registration on arrival

As with Global Entry, conditionally approved Nexus applicants may complete the interview step through Enrollment on Arrival upon return to the US by air, including at designated CBP preclearance locations.

This process allows conditionally approved applicants to complete their Global Entry and/or Nexus enrollment interview as part of the immigration process upon arrival at the airport after international travel. To do this, look for signs in the airport for the “Registration on Arrival” lane. Also, make sure your flight arrives during the hours when the interview is offered.

A CBP agent will complete your Global Entry Interview during your admissibility inspection.

Given that Nexus is a jointly administered Trusted Traveler program, applicants interview with both CBP and CBSA for approval.

This involves a two-step process. First, applicants must interview with the CBSA at Canadian airport registration centers to complete the Canadian portion of the interview process. Then, they must meet with CBP at designated registrations at arrival locations.

All conditionally approved applicants are eligible to complete their CBP interview by registration upon arrival at any participating US airport or preclearance location, regardless of whether they have completed the CBSA portion of the interview.

Registration on arrival interviews are offered on a first-come, first-served basis based on the availability of relevant airport personnel.

Nexus includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

As mentioned above, Nexus membership includes Global Entry and thus, access to TSA PreCheck security checkpoints. TSA PreCheck is an expedited security program operated by the Transportation Security Administration for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. TSA PreCheck users pass through a dedicated TSA PreCheck security line at more 200 US airports Without removing their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.

According to the US Department of Homeland Security, by meeting Nexus eligibility requirements and sharing your passport information and fingerprints during your enrollment interview, you will be eligible for Global Entry. The catch is that it is most beneficial to Americans living near the Canadian border, as only border locations will accept interview applicants.

The same rules apply to any other TSA PreCheck user with Nexus or otherwise.

Once registered, you will need to add your known traveler number to your airline reservation. Then, when accessing your boarding pass, you should see the TSA PreCheck indicator. Presenting your boarding pass with this symbol is the only way to gain access to the TSA PreCheck lane.

Credit card that reimburses Nexus fees

Some credit cards offer cardholders up to $100 in statement credit reimbursement for TSA PreCheck and application fees associated with Global Entry (and thus, Nexus), including:

The cost of Global Entry is increasing to $120 in October, so double check that your credit card issuer will increase its statement credit accordingly.

Bottom line

Eligible travelers can take advantage of Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and Nexus for half the price of a Global Entry membership. If you are an American, Mexican or Canadian citizen who frequently crosses the US-Canada border, this program may be for you.

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