The success of the U.S. and Canadian NEXUS program has resulted in growing border delays for cardholders. At peak periods, ports with a high percentage of NEXUS users are starting to reach capacity in the dedicated NEXUS lanes. As a result, there are certain times of the day when the regular lanes may be faster than the Nexus lanes. Border officials are also beginning to see NEXUS users making dangerous maneuvers to switch out of the NEXUS lanes and into the regular lane queue.
The problem stems from the fact that the number of NEXUS card holders continues to rise while the number of dedicated NEXUS lanes does not. The program now has over 1 million members and both countries are working hard to increase that number significantly. With limited space and construction funding, many ports cannot simply add new NEXUS lanes. The problem is therefore likely to grow.
However, the increasing delay does not mean you shouldn’t apply for the program. The average interaction with a customs officer at the border is about a minute in the regular lanes and half that in the Nexus lanes. In addition, many ports are not yet seeing any delay. A NEXUS card is still a great idea for most travelers.
Nexus Information
The Nexus program allows Canadian and American travelers to pass through special dedicated lanes when driving between the two countries. It makes border enforcement more efficient by allowing pre-screened travelers through inspection more quickly so border officials can focus on travellers who have the potential to be high-risk. For more information on the NEXUS Program see our webpage on types of allowable border documentation.
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