How to Apply for NEXUS and Global Entry in Canada: A Complete Comparison Guide

Understanding Trusted Traveller Programs

If you travel frequently between Canada and the United States, or fly internationally with connections through U.S. airports, a trusted traveller program can save you significant time at borders and airports. The two most relevant programs for Canadian residents are NEXUS and Global Entry. While both are designed to expedite the border crossing experience for pre-approved, low-risk travellers, they differ in scope, cost, and application procedures.

For newcomers to Canada who have obtained permanent residence or citizenship, these programs can be particularly valuable. Frequent visits to family abroad, business travel, or regular cross-border shopping trips become much more efficient with trusted traveller status. This guide compares both programs in detail and walks you through the application process from start to finish.

NEXUS vs. Global Entry: Key Differences

Understanding the differences between these two programs will help you decide which one best suits your travel patterns.

NEXUS Program Overview

NEXUS is a bilateral program jointly managed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is designed specifically for travel between Canada and the United States and offers benefits at land borders, airports, and marine ports of entry.

• Cost: $50 USD for 5 years
• Covers: Canada-U.S. land borders, Canadian and U.S. airports, marine ports
• Includes: Global Entry benefits, TSA PreCheck, expedited Canadian airport security
• Application: Requires approval from both CBSA and CBP
• Interview: Conducted jointly by CBSA and CBP officers

Global Entry Program Overview

Global Entry is a U.S.-only program managed by CBP. It expedites customs and immigration clearance when entering the United States from any international destination, not just Canada.

• Cost: $100 USD for 5 years
• Covers: Entry into the United States from any country
• Includes: TSA PreCheck
• Does not include: Expedited entry into Canada or Canadian airport benefits
• Application: Requires CBP approval only
• Interview: Conducted by CBP officers at a U.S. port of entry or select preclearance locations

Eligibility Requirements

Both programs have strict eligibility criteria. Meeting these criteria does not guarantee approval, as both CBSA and CBP retain discretion over membership decisions.

NEXUS Eligibility

To apply for NEXUS, you must:

• Be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada or the United States
• Have no criminal convictions (in any country) for which you have not received a pardon or record suspension
• Have no customs, immigration, or agriculture violations
• Be admissible to both Canada and the United States
• Be able to demonstrate low-risk traveller status
• Not be under investigation by any law enforcement agency

Newcomers who have recently obtained Canadian permanent residence or citizenship are eligible to apply. However, your immigration history will be reviewed, and any past issues with either Canadian or U.S. immigration may affect your application. For information on your immigration status, see our guide on changing immigration status in Canada.

Global Entry Eligibility

Global Entry is available to citizens and permanent residents of the United States, as well as citizens of certain other countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and several others. Canadian permanent residents who are not citizens of an eligible country may face additional requirements. Visit the CBP Global Entry page for the full list of eligible nationalities.

The Application Process: Step by Step

The application process for both programs follows a similar pattern: online application, background check, and in-person interview.

Step 1: Create a Trusted Traveller Program Account

Both NEXUS and Global Entry applications are submitted through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. Create an account, select the program you wish to apply for, and complete the online application form. You will need to provide personal information, travel history, employment details, and vehicle information (for NEXUS land border use).

Step 2: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee is paid online at the time of submission. NEXUS costs $50 USD and Global Entry costs $100 USD. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Payment is by credit card only.

Step 3: Background Check and Conditional Approval

After submitting your application, both CBSA and CBP (for NEXUS) or CBP alone (for Global Entry) will conduct background checks. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on your background and current application volumes. You will receive a notification of conditional approval or denial through your TTP account.

Step 4: Schedule and Attend Your Interview

Upon receiving conditional approval, you must schedule an in-person interview. This is a critical step that cannot be skipped.

What to Bring to Your Interview

• Valid passport (Canadian and/or other nationality)
• Permanent Resident Card (if applicable)
• One additional piece of government-issued photo ID
• Proof of residency (such as a driver's licence or utility bill)
• Your conditional approval letter or confirmation number

Step 5: Receive Your NEXUS or Global Entry Card

If approved during your interview, you will have your photo and iris scan taken (for NEXUS) or fingerprints recorded (for Global Entry). Your membership card will be mailed to you within a few weeks. In the meantime, you can begin using your membership number for certain benefits, such as TSA PreCheck.

Benefits of NEXUS Membership

The benefits of NEXUS extend well beyond faster border crossings. Here is a comprehensive list of what NEXUS membership provides:

At the Land Border

• Access to dedicated NEXUS lanes at most Canada-U.S. land border crossings
• Significantly shorter wait times, especially during peak travel periods
• Ability to use the NEXUS card instead of a passport for land border crossings between Canada and the U.S.

At Airports

• Access to NEXUS kiosks at major Canadian airports for expedited customs clearance when returning to Canada
• Global Entry kiosk access at U.S. airports when entering the United States
• TSA PreCheck for expedited security screening at U.S. airports (no need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, or light jackets)
• Expedited security screening at participating Canadian airports

Marine Benefits

• Expedited processing at designated marine ports of entry
• Ability to report arrival by phone rather than in person in some cases

For newcomers who hold dual citizenship, NEXUS can be especially valuable. Learn more about managing multiple citizenships in our dual citizenship guide. If you need to renew your Canadian passport, our passport renewal guide provides step-by-step instructions.

Renewal Process

Both NEXUS and Global Entry memberships are valid for 5 years. Renewal is typically straightforward if your circumstances have not changed significantly.

NEXUS Renewal

You can renew your NEXUS membership up to one year before it expires and up to one year after expiry. Renewal is done through your TTP account online. In many cases, renewal does not require a new interview, though CBSA and CBP reserve the right to request one. The renewal fee is the same as the initial application: $50 USD. Visit the CBSA NEXUS application page for renewal instructions.

Global Entry Renewal

Global Entry renewal follows a similar process through the TTP website. The renewal fee is $100 USD. As with NEXUS, an interview may or may not be required.

Common Questions for Newcomers

Can I apply with a Permanent Resident Card instead of a passport?

You need a valid passport to apply for both programs. Your Permanent Resident Card alone is not sufficient. If you do not currently hold a valid passport, you will need to obtain one first. Refugees holding a Convention Travel Document should check their eligibility directly with CBSA. See our refugee travel document guide for more details.

How long does the entire process take?

From initial application to receiving your card, the process typically takes 3 to 6 months. The background check phase is the most variable, and interview availability can also affect the timeline. During periods of high demand, wait times for interviews can extend significantly.

Can my children get NEXUS?

Yes, children under 18 can apply for NEXUS. They must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is also a NEXUS member or is applying at the same time. The fee for children is the same as for adults.

Final Thoughts on Trusted Traveller Programs

For Canadian residents who travel regularly to the United States or internationally through U.S. airports, a trusted traveller program is one of the best investments in travel convenience you can make. NEXUS offers the best value for most Canadian residents, combining the benefits of multiple programs at half the cost of Global Entry alone. Start your application early, be thorough and honest in your responses, and keep your membership information up to date.

WelcomeAide helps newcomers navigate every aspect of life in Canada, from travel documents to settlement services. Use our AI Newcomer Navigator for personalized assistance, explore our blog for more guides and resources, learn about our mission, or find out how to get involved in supporting newcomers across Canada.