If you cross the border from Canada to the United States or vise versa quite often than you likely know that it can sometimes take hours and many questions to get you through to the other side. Border security has tightened significantly over the last decade and in an effort to speed up the process for low-risk pre approved travelers from both countries the NEXUS pass was created. This is a joint effort between The Canadian Border Services Agency and United States Border and Customs Protection. Those entering Canada by air also have the option of obtaining a CANPASS Air document. Here is a little more about both of these programs.
Whether you're coming into the country for pleasure or are running a series of anger management programs for Canadian psychologists you would likely appreciate if your trip across the border were as simple as possible. Becoming a member of the NEXUS program allows you to virtually skip the customs line when you are entering Canada or the United States by land, air, or boat. If you were driving to a conference on home health care Kitchener based, for example, you could enter the faster designated lane at the Detroit or Buffalo border crossing. There are also self-serve kiosks in major international airports and you can call ahead to the border offices when traveling by boat.
To become eligible for the program you must submit an application and pass a risk assessment by both Canada and the United States. A NEXUS card can also be used as a replacement for a passport when entering the United States as part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. A NEXUS member can use the self-service kiosks in Canada no matter where they are coming from. If you were just at a Sutton members program retreat in the Caribbean or skiing in the Alps you are permitted to skip the line when coming back to Canada.
CANPASS Air is strictly a Canadian program and does not help you if you are attempting to enter the United States. But, when you are traveling by air all of the NEXUS kiosks in Canadian airports can be used by those possessing a CANPASS Air membership as well. If you sell properties between Toronto and Troncones beach front real estate you might want to look into more information about this program.
The NEXUS pass is meant for those who have never had a problem with the law or crossing the border in the past. If you have been convicted of a serious offense or have a recorded violation of customs laws than you will not be eligible for this program. But, if you do have a perfect record this could be a great way of getting from your real estate Toronto to a shopping spree in Detroit or a trip down south in the colder months.
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