Summary
What is a NEXUS Card?
The NEXUS Card offers U.S. and Canadian citizens pre-approval when entering Canada or the United States at all participating NEXUS air, land, and marine ports of entry. Imagine waiting in a long line at the Canadian border, either at the airport or at a land crossing—your NEXUS Card allows you to bypass that long wait and go directly to the “NEXUS Card” lane, potentially saving you hours of time.
Anyone can apply for a NEXUS card, and frequent travelers aren’t mandatory. What matters is your willingness to pay the fee and attend the interview.
Application Process for NEXUS Card
The process to obtain a NEXUS Card involves several clear steps:
- Register as a New GOES User: Visit the Trusted Travelers Program website, which serves as the online enrollment system for NEXUS Card applicants. Alternatively, you can print a hard copy application and mail it to the Canada Border Services.
- Complete basic information and create a secure password during your registration as a GOES user.
- Login and Complete the NEXUS Card Application: Upon registration, you will receive a unique GOES User ID via email. The application requires answers to questions about your personal details, residency, citizenship, employment history, travel history, criminal record, etc.
- Have necessary documents ready, such as passport, driver’s license, or visa numbers.
- Submit your NEXUS Card Application Fee: The final stage includes submitting a non-refundable fee via credit card or U.S. bank account.
- Schedule an Interview: After payment, you’ll receive an email about your conditional qualification, which may take at least 6 to 8 weeks. If conditionally qualified, you can schedule an interview at an enrollment center, often found at border crossings or airports. The interview will include discussing your application, and it will involve an iris scan and photograph by two border officers—one from Canada and one from the U.S.
- The interview typically lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, including potential waiting time.
- Wait for 7 to 10 Days for Your Card to Arrive: Following a successful interview, expect to receive your NEXUS Card in the mail within 7 to 10 days. Some centers may provide the card on-site after the interview.
Important Tips
- Children aged 17 and under can apply for their NEXUS Card at no cost. If you’re a parent applying for your NEXUS Card, consider applying for your children’s cards simultaneously.
Requirements for NEXUS Card
- Proof of citizenship document
- Admissibility document (if applicable)
- Proof of permanent resident status (if applicable)
- Driver’s license (if available)
- Credit card or U.S. bank account information
