NEXUS is a joint Canada-US trusted traveller program for pre-approved, low-risk travellers. Membership costs $120 USD for five years for applicants 18 and older; children under 18 can apply for free when a parent or legal guardian is a member or applicant. Benefits include expedited processing at participating land crossings and airports, TSA PreCheck lanes at participating US airports, and Global Entry kiosks at Canadian airports. Confirm current fees, eligibility, and locations with CBSA before applying.
At participating land border crossings, NEXUS members can use dedicated lanes. Wait times vary by location, time, and traffic, so compare the time you might save with how often you travel.
Airport procedures vary by destination and participating location. NEXUS can provide expedited entry processing and access to eligible security-screening lanes. Check CBSA, CBP and CATSA instructions before travel; membership does not guarantee a particular wait time or exempt you from screening.
Applicants undergo checks by both CBSA and US Customs and Border Protection and must complete the steps shown in the current application process. Processing times and interview availability change, so check the official program page and apply well before planned travel.
Both countries assess eligibility. A criminal or customs history can affect the decision, but applicants should review the official eligibility guidance rather than assume a single rule applies to every case.
Membership is valid for five years. Check current renewal requirements and interview instructions with the program; conditional approval and appointment availability can affect timing.
Worth It If You...
- Anyone who crosses the Canada-US border regularly
- Canadians who fly to the US more than once a year
- Frequent international travellers (Global Entry included)
- Cross-border shoppers
- Business travellers
Skip It If You...
- People who never travel to the US
- Applicants who do not meet the current eligibility requirements
- People unwilling to do an in-person interview
- Very infrequent travellers (once every few years)
Pros
- +Expedited processing at participating land crossings and airports
- +TSA PreCheck lanes at participating US airports
- +Global Entry kiosks at Canadian airports
- +Children under 18 can apply without a fee when a parent or guardian is a member or applicant
Cons
- −Non-refundable application fee for adults
- −Requires security checks by both countries
- −Interview and processing times vary
- −Benefits depend on participating locations and current program rules
The Bottom Line
NEXUS can be worthwhile if you travel often enough to use its participating expedited lanes. Compare the current fee, eligibility, locations, and application timing before applying.
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