FAST/NEXUS
Both FAST and NEXUS Cards require approval by both the United States and Canada. This means that you must have a valid U.S. entry waiver, for criminal offences or other reasons that make you inadmissible to the U.S. and also a Canadian pardon for any criminal offence in Canada.
Even if you have only a DUI offence, and would otherwise be able to enter America, your application for a FAST/NEXUS card will be denied by the Canadian Border Services unless you obtain a pardon.
We suggest you apply for a pardon and waiver service before applying for a FAST or NEXUS card.
FAST Commercial Driver Program
The FAST commercial driver's card allows participants to use designated lanes at the border which speed up border crossing time.
FAST clearance can only be used if everyone in the vehicle is in possession of a valid FAST Commercial Driver card and transporting eligible goods for a FAST-approved carrier and importer. The following procedures apply:
- When you enter Canada or the United States where there is a dedicated FAST lane, stop and hold your FAST Commercial Driver card(s) in front of the card reader (where available) and then stop at the inspection booth to complete the inspection process.
- For border locations without a dedicated FAST lane, present your FAST card to the officer at the booth.
NEXUS Cards
NEXUS is designed to expedite the border clearance process for low-risk, pre-approved travellers into Canada and the United States. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are cooperating in this joint venture to simplify border crossings for members, while enhancing security.
To become a member in this program, you must:
- submit an application and go through a registration process;
- satisfy the eligibility criteria;
- be admissible in Canada and the United States; and
- pass risk assessments by both countries.
