Is a NEXUS card worth it?

There is good news for those of you who travel to the U.S. often.  The Canadian government has created NEXUS cards designed to speed up border crossings for low-risk, pre-approved travelers into Canada and the United States.

Here are a few reasons you might want to consider applying for a NEXUS card:

1. You’ll spend less time waiting for customs and immigration processing.

NEXUS makes crossing the border as streamlined and efficient as possible, with designated lanes at 19 ports of entry, self-serve kiosks available a 9 international airports in Canada and 430 marine points of entry.

2.  The NEXUS card uses advanced identification technology, making duplication inconceivable.  

At airport kiosks, identification is confirmed with one’s iris biometric.  At the time of registration, the iris is captured as a unique way of identifying an individual.  The card also contains a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, which is used to track travelers by land through transmitting information into the primary inspection booth.  The picture of all travelling individuals will show up on the screen and a border officer will verify accordingly.

3.  Children under 18 are eligible to be enrolled.

If you travel with your children, getting them a NEXUS card is free. Minors require a signed letter of consent from at least one parent or legal guardian, and can be even be enrolled in the NEXUS program if their parents or legal guardians are not members.

If you are a frequent traveler, busy professional or a kid who travels often, it might be a good idea. Visit http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/nexus/application-demande-eng.html for more information on how to apply.