News
Transport ministers touts faster U.S. security screening
Feb. 14, 2012, Ottawa - Travellers under Canada's Nexus program will be able to use their cards in new, faster security lines when flying to the United States.
February 14, 2012 By The Canadian Press
Transport Minister Denis Lebel announced today that starting tomorrow, Nexus members can use their cards for faster screening at airports in eight Canadian cities.
The Nexus program previously allowed Canadian residents to pass through special lines when travelling by road to the United States, or by air to some countries outside the U.S.
It's designed to make border patrol more efficient by allowing guards to move those who aren't considered a danger to border security through customs more quickly and focus on travellers who have the potential to be high risk.
In order to qualify for the Nexus program, applicants cannot have a criminal record or have violated customs or immigration laws.
Canadian applicants are then required to submit to an interview with a United States Customs and Border Protection officer and have the irises in their eyes scanned.
A $50 fee is also required.
The Nexus program began as a joint venture of the Canada and U.S. governments in 2000.
