Maybe you’re taking a meeting with a prospect. Or making your way to an initial face-to-face with an investor. Or doing a site visit with a new supplier. No matter what you’re traveling for, cross-border business moves faster than ever—and waiting in bumper-to-bumper lines at the Canada-US border isn’t the best use of your limited time. Enter the NEXUS program, designed to move low-risk, pre-approved travelers across the border quickly. Here’s a quick primer on all your NEXUS need-to-knows.
What does it take to get a NEXUS pass?
A NEXUS pass lets pre-screened travelers use dedicated processing lanes at the US/Canada border. Any citizen or permanent resident of Canada or the US can apply. The process takes about six weeks, and includes risk assessment and interviews with border protection from both countries. If you’re approved, your pass is valid for five years. Best of all, it’s not too much of an investment--$50 covers the application and pass.
How does it work at the border?
At Buffalo/Fort Erie -area border crossings, NEXUS holders can proceed to a NEXUS-only lane and present their NEXUS photo ID card. One catch to look out for, though: everyone in your vehicle must also be a NEXUS holder to use the dedicated lane. Nearby crossings where you can use the program include the Peace Bridge, the Lewiston Queenston Bridge and the Whirlpool Bridge (designated a NEXUS-only crossing). For NEXUS participants taking to the air, NEXUS kiosks can be used when entering Canada by Air, and Global Entry Kiosks are available when arriving in the US via Canadian preclearance airports. Approved travelers can also call a marine telephone reporting center if they’re arriving by water into the US or Canada.
Any other perks?
NEXUS members who are Canadian citizens, US Lawful Permanent Residents, or US citizens will also receive the benefits of TSA Pre-Check when they fly.
How do I apply?
To get started, visit GOES
