What is NEXUS ?

NEXUS is defined as a Trusted Traveller Program designed to expedite border clearance processes for entry into US and Canada for low-risk, pre-screened travellers.

NEXUS reduces waiting times for pre-approved travellers when entering US and Canada via designated NEXUS entry points.

Eligible travellers entering the US can apply for Trusted Traveller Programs to be eligible to use expedited lanes at US airports when crossing international borders.

NEXUS, which is a joint venture program between the US Customs and Border Protection and Canada Border Services Agency, is one of the many such Trusted Traveller Programs, along with TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and SENTRI.

Travellers seeking entry to the US and Canada can use the NEXUS program to enter the countries via air, land and sea, through fast-tracked NEXUS processing lanes.

Who is eligible for NEXUS?

According to the website of the US Customs and Border Protection, US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian lawful permanent residents and Mexican nationals who are members of Mexico’s trusted traveller program Viajero Confiable are eligible to apply for the NEXUS program. Applicants require approvals from both US and Canada authorities.

Individuals who have been convicted of a criminal offence, found in violation of any customs in any country, subjects of an ongoing investigation, who have been denied for the purchase of a firearm and have received a criminal pardon from any country are ineligible to participate in the NEXUS program.

An application-processing fee of $50 per adult applicant is charged, which if approved will give you a NEXUS membership with a validity of five years. Interested applicants can apply for the NEXUS program on the official US Department of Homeland Security website.

NEXUS members will receive a radio frequency identification card to use when entering the United States and Canada. Replacement of the NEXUS card, if damaged, stolen or lost, will cost a $25 fee.

NEXUS members can enjoy the benefits of Global Entry at no additional cost through using the Global Entry kiosks for entry at participating US airports.