NEXUS Card:
Travel Smarter.
Cross Faster.
Your complete guide to the trusted traveler card that can help you spend less time waiting at the U.S.–Canada border and more time enjoying your journey.
Two countries. One trusted program.
Jointly administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency.
What is a NEXUS Card?
NEXUS is a joint U.S. and Canadian trusted traveler program for preapproved, low-risk travelers. Approved members can access special processing at participating land border crossings, airports, and marine locations.
For people who regularly travel between Canada and the United States—whether for business, vacation, or family visits—NEXUS can make cross-border travel significantly more convenient. Expedited processing does not guarantee you will never be inspected.
7 Benefits of a NEXUS Card
1. Dedicated border lanes
Use designated NEXUS lanes at participating U.S.–Canada land crossings.
2. TSA PreCheck access
Eligible NEXUS members can receive TSA PreCheck screening benefits when the PASS ID is entered as the Known Traveler Number.
3. Canadian airport processing
Use NEXUS kiosks and eGates where available at participating Canadian airports.
4. Global Entry benefits
NEXUS members may use Global Entry processing when entering the U.S., subject to document and enrollment requirements.
5. Family travel
Children can enroll too. Each person needs their own membership to use NEXUS benefits together.
6. Marine crossing procedures
Special reporting options are available at eligible marine border locations.
7. Long-term convenience
Enjoy five years of benefits with a single approved membership.
More time for the journey
Spend less time in routine processing and more time on what matters to you.
How Much Does NEXUS Cost?
Who Is Eligible for NEXUS?
Potential applicants include U.S. and Canadian citizens, U.S. and Canadian permanent residents, and qualifying Mexican nationals who are members of Viajero Confiable. All applicants must satisfy program rules, pass checks by both countries, and be admissible to both countries.
- Provide accurate identity, residency, and travel information.
- Submit to background and law-enforcement checks.
- Meet any applicable residency requirements or exemptions.
- Complete the required NEXUS enrollment interview.
Approval is discretionary; having a passport or Green Card does not guarantee approval.
How to Apply: 6 Simple Steps
- Create a Trusted Traveler Programs account.
Start at the official TTP application portal.
- Complete the NEXUS application.
Provide requested identity, immigration, residence, employment and travel-history details.
- Pay the applicable fee.
The adult fee is $120 USD; certain children's fees are waived.
- Wait for conditional approval.
Security assessments and processing times vary. Check your TTP account for updates.
- Complete enrollment interviews.
Follow the official instructions for available U.S. and Canadian interview options and bring required documents.
- Receive and activate your card.
After final approval, follow your account instructions to activate the mailed membership card.
NEXUS vs. Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck
| Feature | NEXUS | Global Entry | TSA PreCheck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Faster U.S.–Canada travel | Faster arrivals into the U.S. | Faster U.S. airport security |
| Standard adult cost | $120 | $120 | Varies by provider |
| Standard term | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years |
| Canada NEXUS border lanes | Yes | No automatic access | No |
| U.S. airport expedited security | For eligible members | For eligible members | Yes, where available |
| Enrollment interview | Yes | Yes | Enrollment appointment |
For frequent U.S.–Canada travel, NEXUS is often the most versatile choice. TSA PreCheck eligibility for NEXUS members varies by citizenship and status; verify before booking.
Can NEXUS Replace Your Passport?
At certain land and marine crossings, a valid NEXUS Card can be an accepted entry document for eligible U.S. and Canadian citizens. However, it is not a universal replacement for a passport, especially for international flights. Passport, visa and immigration requirements vary based on citizenship, status, destination and mode of travel.
Carry the documents required for your specific trip, even when using NEXUS benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can U.S. Green Card holders apply?
Yes. U.S. lawful permanent residents may apply if they meet the program's eligibility and residency requirements.
Does every child need a card?
Yes. Every member of a family needs an individual NEXUS membership to use eligible lanes together.
Does NEXUS guarantee faster entry every time?
No. Members remain subject to inspection and may be directed to additional screening.
How long will approval take?
Times vary based on vetting and interview appointment availability. Use your TTP account for your current status rather than relying on unofficial estimates.
Do I need a separate NEXUS passport photo?
Typically no. Your NEXUS enrollment photograph is taken as part of the official enrollment process. A professional photo service can help with separate passport or visa photo needs.
Is a NEXUS Card Worth It?
For travelers frequently crossing the U.S.–Canada border, NEXUS can be a valuable long-term investment. Its $120 adult application fee covers five years, and eligible members can benefit at participating land, air and marine locations.
Travel smarter. Spend less time waiting and more time exploring.
Start Your Official Application ↗
Last reviewed: October 31, 2026. Program rules and government fees may change.
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