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what are the benefits of a nexus card

by Dolores Durgan Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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NEXUS card benefits include the following:

  • Use designated self-serve kiosks when exiting certain international airports;
  • Use designated security lines at domestic airports;
  • Use Global Entry kiosks at US airports;
  • Get pre-cleared by phone from 30 minutes up to four hours before arrival to approximately 430 marine sites in Canada;
  • NEXUS-only lanes at border and NEXUS-only bridge at Niagara Falls;
  • A quick and simplified entry process using dedicated lanes at 19 designated land border crossings;
  • Ability to proceed through customs much faster;
  • Faster clearance through airport security.

The NEXUS card was created for low-risk, preapproved travelers to help speed up border crossings between Canada and the United States. As a NEXUS member, you bypass the regular line of travelers and enter a special security/customs line when you arrive in either country.

What are the benefits of being a Nexus member?

NEXUS program membership allows you to have reduced waiting times at designated ports of entry by allowing you to: Use dedicated land border crossing processing lanes Use NEXUS kiosks when you enter Canada via airport Use Global Entry kiosks when you enter the U.S. via airport

What happens if you don’t have a NEXUS card?

If someone is not a NEXUS member — and that includes children — you risk losing your membership. Use the special NEXUS lane to enter Canada at one of 21 land border crossings. Hold your NEXUS card in front of the card reader. After a visual inspection, the officer will either allow you to enter Canada or make you undergo further inspection.

Is the NEXUS card worth the $100 fee?

With one application fee and one renewal fee behind me, it’s the best $100 travel expenditure I’ve ever made. After eight years of NEXUS benefits, and two connecting flights I would have surely missed but for my NEXUS card, it’s worth its weight in gold.

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Is it worth getting a NEXUS card?

NEXUS is a good deal. When entering the U.S. or at U.S. pre-clearance centres in Canada, there are dedicated Global Entry lanes for members of NEXUS and other trusted traveller programs. Unlike in Canada, my experience has been that there's contact with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.

Can you use a NEXUS card instead of a passport?

Yes you can. Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (the States and Canada are members) the Nexus card along with the enhanced driver's license, SENTRI pass, FAST card for truckers (road travel only) and US passport card are recognized as acceptable equivalent documents to a valid passport.

Is NEXUS card good for international travel?

You can use your NEXUS Card at participating international airports, at land crossings between Canada and the US that have NEXUS lanes, and when travelling between the two countries by boat.

Can I travel to the US with just my NEXUS card?

Is the NEXUS card a WHTI compliant document? Yes, it is a WHTI compliant document for entry into the United States.

Can I use NEXUS to travel to Europe?

In short, yes. Your Nexus card (and Global Entry cards for those who are GE members) can be used to access the priority security screening lines in Canadian airports. "The last time we flew international out of YVR the Nexus lane was closed and we lined up with "the rest of them" So annoying."

Can I fly to Mexico with a NEXUS card?

No, you can't. There is no nexus unless you are flying to a US destination..

Does NEXUS give you TSA PreCheck?

NEXUS provides dedicated lanes at select border crossings between the U.S. and Canada while also offering full TSA PreCheck and Global Entry benefits when flying.

Does NEXUS qualify for TSA PreCheck?

U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents enrolled in NEXUS and SENTRI are also eligible for TSA PreCheck. Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS are also eligible to participate in TSA PreCheck.

Can I use my NEXUS card to enter Canada?

NEXUS members can enter Canada using the NEXUS self-serve kiosks at designated airports, regardless of where they are coming from. For example, a member returning to Canada from overseas and arriving in Montréal can use a NEXUS kiosk in Montréal.

Is NEXUS better than Global Entry?

If you frequently travel between the US and Canada via land and/or air, NEXUS will likely be the better choice. It is cheaper and allows for expedited entry when crossing the border by car, something Global Entry doesn't yet offer.

Can you bring food with NEXUS?

And while you are allowed to bring certain foods into the U.S. when using your NEXUS card, the onus is on YOU to declare if you have any food with you. The safest solution is not to take any food with you when entering the U.S. and stop after you have crossed the border for snacks, fruit etc...

How long is NEXUS valid for?

five yearsA member should use the Trusted Travelers Programs (TTP) website to apply for NEXUS. The application-processing fee of US $50 is non-refundable per applicant. The membership will be valid for another five years. Children under the age of 18 must also apply but, if eligible, are admitted to the program free of charge.

What is Nexus card?

The NEXUS program is designed to facilitate United States and Canadian border agencies to concentrate their efforts on potentially higher-risk travelers and goods, thu s allowing pre-cleared NEXUS card holders to expedite border crossing with a minimum of customs and immigration questioning. NEXUS card benefits include the following:

What is the eligibility for Nexus card?

NEXUS Card Eligibility. In order for an applicant to be deemed eligible for a NEXUS card, they have to be approved by both the United States and Canada border crossing authorities. If either country denies the applicant, this will keep them from participating in the NEXUS program.

How to use Nexus lane?

Using the NEXUS lane by land. Upon reaching the US-Canada-border by car NEXUS card holders should follow pull into the NEXUS lane and hold their cards before the card reader. After they scan their cards, they should stop at the customs booth for a visual check from the customs officer.

How long does it take to get a Nexus card?

Generally, it takes up to 3 months to receive a NEXUS card. No specific deadline until your application is currently under for background and security checks. The whole process from the beginning of the application, completion of the interview and to obtain a NEXUS card can take from 3 to 6 months.

Why is my Nexus application denied?

If you failed to provide complete and truthful information on you application form, or you made a mistake in entering your data, you might be denied. Other reasons for denial are a past conviction, non-compliance with customs or immigration laws. You can object your denial with the NEXUS Ombudsman.

Can you use Nexus card for air travel?

Using the NEXUS lane by air. Travelers, including children, who intend to use their NEXUS card for air travel should have had an iris scan at one of the NEXUS enrollment centers. Everyone must complete a Customs declaration form and then proceed to the NEXUS or Global Entry kiosk.

Who is responsible for customs and immigration on behalf of Nexus card holders?

When crossing the border by sea, it is the boat captain who is responsible for dealing with customs and immigration on behalf of the NEXUS card holders aboard the boat. The captain should call the NEXUS reporting center number up not later than 30 minutes before the boat’s arrival and give the personal details of all NEXUS members onboard, together with details of the trip. The border officer at the reporting center will issue a report number that must be presented to the customs officers at a specified landing site.

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So what exactly is the NEXUS card?

NEXUS is designed to expedite the border clearance process for low-risk, pre-approved travellers into Canada and the United States.” This is a trusted traveller program that has a lot of similarities to the American programs, Global Entry and TSA Pre✓.

6 reasons why it's worth it to get a NEXUS card

If I haven't convinced you yet, here are my 6 best reasons why you should get the NEXUS card ASAP.

How to get a NEXUS card

If there's one major con to the NEXUS card, it's the application process as you'll see with the steps numbered out. The main bottle neck is the interviews and talking to US border officials isn't exactly a fun past-time.

What you might not have known about your NEXUS card

What you need to do to get TSA-Pre on your boarding card – When you're checking in, make sure to fill in the Known Traveler Number field which you've probably always left blank. This spot is for your NEXUS number. This matters most when you're flying outbound from the USA since TSA Pre is dependent on this.

Getting a free NEXUS Card

Wait I just said that NEXUS is $50 right? Well that is true but there is a new Canadian credit card that can turn it free.

Frequently Asked Questions

So far you've written from a Canadian perspective. Why would an American want NEXUS? – That's a great question. So far, I've made it sound like Americans don't need NEXUS because you've got Global Entry and TSA Pre. That is partially true except this caveat – Global Entry works for travel back into the USA but does not work for travel into Canada.

What is Nexus travel?

NEXUS is a Canada-United States trusted traveller program. It’s for pre-approved low-risk Canadian and U.S. citizens and permanent residents travelling to, from or within the U.S. or Canada. Mexican nationals who are members of Mexico’s Viajero Confiable program can also apply for NEXUS membership.

How much does Nexus cost?

A NEXUS application costs 50 USD and if approved, NEXUS benefits are in effect for five years. NEXUS provides access to both Global Entry and TSA Pre✓. It costs $100 to apply for Global Entry (that includes access to TSA Pre✓) or $85 to apply for TSA Pre✓. NEXUS is a good deal.

Is Nexus a good deal?

NEXUS is a good deal. When entering the U.S. or at U.S. pre-clearance centres in Canada, there are dedicated Global Entry lanes for members of NEXUS and other trusted traveller programs. Unlike in Canada, my experience has been that there’s contact with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.

Do Nexus members need a Declaration Card?

It’s unusual to see families with young children and strollers in NEXUS lanes. When arriving by air in Can ada, NEXUS members don’t need to complete a Declaration Card if the airport has self-serve NEXUS kiosks.

Do you need a Nexus card to enter an airport?

The larger airports have dedicated NEXUS screening lanes. All that’s required to enter is a boarding pass and a NEXUS card . If there isn’t a dedicated screening officer, NEXUS cardholders receive priority access to an agent serving both NEXUS and non-NEXUS lanes. If there’s a queue, it’s short and efficiently managed.

Why is Nexus card important?

The NEXUS card is important for reducing the time Canadians or U.S. citizens need to wait for border crossing. The NEXUS card is beneficial for business professionals who regularly travel between the U.S. and Canada. The main benefit of a NEXUS card is an expedited process of immigration and customs processing at designated border crossings.

What is Nexus card?

A NEXUS card is a border crossing card permitting expedited travel across the U.S.-Canadian border to low-risk U.S. and Canadian citizens. Based on the bilateral agreement between Canada and the United States, the Canada Border Services Agency and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency jointly manages the Trusted Traveller program.

How to apply for Nexus card?

Steps to Apply for a NEXUS Card 1 Download and complete the application form from Canada's NEXUS website. You can find the application online at the Canada Border Services Agency's website. You can also complete an application at GOES, the official U.S. government website for the Global Online Enrollment System. 2 Click on the payment button. 3 Print your confirmation. 4 Wait for your correspondence and approval. 5 Receive your Trusted Traveler profile for each applicant. Check your application status every week. Once your application is in the "conditionally approved" status, you can schedule an interview at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency. Once you had your interview and your application is approved, you will receive your card shortly.

How long does a Nexus card last?

The NEXUS card has an RFID (radio frequency identification) chip that has all the information about the owner. The NEXUS card is issued for five years in Canada and the United States, and costs $50 or CAN$50, while the application for children is free. All fees are non-refundable. There is no limit to how many times an ...

When did the Nexus program revocations happen?

President Donald Trump in late January 2017. This order imposed a 90-day U.S. travel ban on individuals from the seven countries listed above.

How long do you have to live in the US to get a Nexus card?

Certain requirements exist for being approved for a NEXUS card, including: Living in the U.S. or Canada for at least three years as a permanent resident or citizen. Passing criminal history checks. Not being convicted for criminal offenses in any country. Having not violated immigration or customs law of any country.

How long does it take to appeal a NEXUS?

While Canadians can appeal to a U.S. CBP ombudsman, the process can take as long as eight to 10 months, and appeals are often unsuccessful.

What is Nexus card?

NEXUS Cards. If approved for participation in NEXUS, you will receive a radio frequency identification (RFID) card for use when entering the U.S. or Canada at all designated NEXUS land, air, and marine ports of entry. A NEXUS card is issued to those approved for the program. Image courtesy of the CBSA.

What is Nexus program?

NEXUS is one of 3 travel programs offered to frequent travelers who cross the border to Canada and the U.S. Thus, the program has no benefit to visitors of any countries other than the U.S. and Canada. For example, it has no use entering in the European Union, Australia, countries in South America, or Asia.

Can I get a Nexus card without a passport?

Hi J, yes it is possible to get a NEXUS card without a passport. For U.S. citizens, you must have one of the following: a valid passport; a birth certificate and photo ID; a U.S. citizenship certificate; a certificate of naturalization; OR a border crossing card.

Can you use Nexus in the US?

Bottom Line: Don’t use the NEXUS lanes unless every passenger in your vehicle has NEXUS and isn’t carrying anything they need to declare. Entering the United States by Land (from Canada and Mexico) NEXUS cards are valid at all RFID-ready lanes found at land crossings into the U.S. from Canada, and vice versa.

Is Nexus a cooperative agreement?

If you’re in violation of any agriculture, customs, or immigration laws, there is almost no chance you will be approved. NEXUS is a cooperative agreement between the United States and Canada , and both countries take these violations seriously.

Do you get a TSA precheck if you have Nexus?

However, even a traveler approved for PreCheck is subject to a random search and/or security screening. Bottom Line: If you have NEXUS, you will receive TSA PreCheck benefits.

What is Nexus for?

NEXUS is for low-risk U.S. citizens , U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, and Mexican nationals (Viajero Confiable members). Proof of citizenship and residence are required for approval. Children under the age of 18 require parental consent to be eligible.

What is Nexus program?

Officially launched in 2002, NEXUS is a joint program run by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Its purpose is to expedite entry for low-risk and pre-approved travelers through customs when entering the United States and Canada via air, land, and sea.

What is Nexus 2021?

Those traveling often between the United States and Canada are in luck. NEXUS allows you to expedite the process of entering both countries while also enjoying other benefits like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck.

What happens if you are not a Nexus member?

If someone is not a NEXUS member — and that includes children — you risk losing your membership.

How long does it take to get Nexus?

Applying for NEXUS is simple, but you should gather a few documents beforehand. The application process should take you around 20 minutes, and payment is due before submitting your application. Remember, only U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, and Mexican nationals may apply.

How much is Nexus?

NEXUS has a $50 non-refundable application fee. Even if you are denied, you will not get the $50 back. Every member of your traveling party must be a NEXUS member to use the service, including children. Those under the age of 18 do not have to pay an application fee.

Where are Nexus enrollment centers located?

NEXUS Enrollment Centers. All of the NEXUS enrollment centers are located near the United States/Canada border. Agents from both countries are located at each enrollment center, so you only need to schedule one interview. Here are the locations currently accepting interviews.

Where do Nexus interviews take place?

NEXUS interviews need to be conducted at a place where both CBP and CBSA officers are present, which mostly limits you to offices at US-Canada land border crossings or at the Canadian airports which have US preclearance facilities.

Does Nexus have lines?

Much quicker and smoother than that of Nexus, especially if you live in the southern United States as NEXUS facilities are not available. No lines, no waiting when arriving back in the US after an international trip. Many travel rewards credit cards will reimburse you for the application fee once every 5 years.

Is Global Entry more expensive than Nexus?

Cons of Global Entry. More expensive than Nexus as it is $100 for 5 years, and that $100 is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. If you are traveling with kids under the age of 18, they will all need their own membership into the program to come through expedited screening with you.

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