How to get Nexus for fast-track entry to the US and Canada

Editor's note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.

Trusted Traveler Programs help eligible travelers expedite their way through border security at U.S. airports and land and sea ports.

There is a lesser-known program, Nexus, for travelers who frequently cross the U.S.-Canada border. What's even less commonly known is that Nexus also includes a Global Entry (and thus a TSA PreCheck) membership for just an additional $50.

Wondering if Nexus may be the right program for you? Here's everything you need to know.

How Nexus works

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

Nexus provides prescreened travelers with expedited processing services when entering the U.S. and Canada by plane, car or boat. It uses Nexus-only processing lanes at designated entry ports along the northern border; Nexus kiosks when entering Canada by air; and Global Entry kiosks when arriving at one of nine Canadian Preclearance airports in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Alberta. Global Entry cards provide Nexus access when entering the U.S. but are not valid for entry into Canada via Nexus lanes or kiosks.

The Nexus application process

Travelers can apply online for a Nexus membership, after which they'll be prompted to arrange an in-person interview at an 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.

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Like the other Trusted Traveler Programs, a Nexus membership is valid for five years. Adult applicants must pay a nonrefundable $50 application fee.

The Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection advise Nexus holders to renew their applications one year before expiration.

Nexus card

Upon approval, Nexus members receive a membership identification card via mail to use when entering Canada or the U.S. 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 active, plan on keeping your card on you (plus your passport and/or proof of permanent residence) whenever you travel. The CBP advises this to ensure you can provide adequate proof of citizenship or permanent residence status if needed.

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

Enrollment on Arrival

Like Global Entry, conditionally approved Nexus applicants can complete the interview step via Enrollment on Arrival upon returning to the U.S. by air, including from 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 when arriving at the airport after an international trip. To do this, look for signs in the airport for the "Enrollment on Arrival" lanes. Also, be sure your flight arrives during the hours when interviews are 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 the CBSA for approval.

This entails a two-step process. First, applicants must interview with the CBSA at Canadian airport enrollment centers to complete the Canadian portion of the interview process. Then, they must interview with CBP at designated Enrollment on Arrival locations.

All conditionally approved applicants are eligible to complete their CBP interview via Enrollment on Arrival at any participating U.S. airport or preclearance location, regardless of whether they have completed the CBSA portion of the interview.

Enrollment on Arrival interviews are offered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of relevant airport personnel.

Nexus includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

As mentioned above, a Nexus membership includes access to Global Entry and, thus, TSA PreCheck security checkpoints. TSA PreCheck is an expedited security program run by the Transportation Security Administration for preapproved, low-risk travelers. TSA PreCheck users pass through dedicated TSA PreCheck security lines at more than 200 U.S. airports without removing their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.

According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, by meeting Nexus eligibility requirements and sharing your passport information and fingerprints during your enrollment interview, you'll be eligible for Global Entry. The catch is that it's most beneficial for 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 enrolled, you'll need to add your Known Traveler Number to your airline reservation. Then, when accessing your boarding pass, you should see a TSA PreCheck indicator. Presenting your boarding pass with this symbol is the only way to gain access to the TSA PreCheck lane.

Credit cards that reimburse Nexus fees

Several credit cards offer cardholders up to $120 in statement credit reimbursement for the application fees associated with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry (and, thus, Nexus), including:

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• United℠ Explorer Card (every four years) (see rates and fees)
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® (every four years) (see rates and fees)
• United Club℠ Card (every four years) (see rates and fees)
• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card (every four years) (see rates and fees)
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Aeroplan® Credit Card (see rates and fees)
• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card (see rates and fees)
• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card (see rates and fees)
• United Quest℠ Card (see rates and fees)

The price of Global Entry is increasing to $120 in October, so double-check whether 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 U.S.-Canada border, this program might be for you.

Related reading:

• Several Chase credit cards can reimburse your Nexus application fees
• 7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear
• Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which is more beneficial?
• Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both