U.S. Government Shutdown Disrupts NEXUS and Global Entry, Impacting Canadian Travelers
Canadian airports in major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal are currently experiencing disruptions to NEXUS and Global Entry programs for travelers heading to the United States. The suspension of these expedited border crossing programs is a direct result of the ongoing partial U.S. Government shutdown.
What’s Happening at the Airports?
Travelers attempting to use NEXUS or Global Entry at U.S. Pre-clearance facilities are finding the programs unavailable. Airports are advising passengers to allow extra time for security checks. Toronto Pearson International Airport is encouraging travelers to utilize the Mobile Passport Control app as an alternative to expedite processing through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Calgary International Airport (YYC) specifically warned passengers via X (formerly Twitter) to anticipate longer wait times at U.S. Customs. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) confirmed the suspension is due to the shutdown, impacting departures to the U.S.
Why are NEXUS and Global Entry Affected?
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initially announced the shutdown of both Global Entry and the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program. While the PreCheck closure was later cancelled, Global Entry remains affected. The shutdown began after disagreements between Democrats and the White House regarding funding for DHS, particularly concerning immigration operations.
Understanding NEXUS and Global Entry
The NEXUS program is designed to speed up border crossings for frequent travelers between Canada and the U.S. It expedites the process for pre-screened individuals, allowing border officers to focus on other security priorities. Global Entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program, provides pre-approved, low-risk travelers with expedited kiosk access when entering the United States from abroad.
Travel industry experts estimate that Global Entry can reduce customs processing time to between 5 and 10 minutes, compared to the typical 30 to 90 minutes for standard lines.
The Broader Impact of the Shutdown
The suspension of these programs highlights the interconnectedness of border security and government funding. The DHS stated it would continue to shut down the Global Entry program for as long as the partial shutdown continued.
FAQ: NEXUS and Global Entry Disruptions
- What is happening with NEXUS and Global Entry? Both programs are currently unavailable at several Canadian airports due to the U.S. Government shutdown.
- Which airports are affected? Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal are among the airports experiencing disruptions.
- What can travelers do? Allow extra time for security checks and consider using the Mobile Passport Control app (where available).
- Is TSA PreCheck also affected? The initial shutdown of TSA PreCheck was cancelled.
Pro Tip: Check your airline’s website and the airport’s official social media channels for the latest updates on processing times and program availability before heading to the airport.
Those with Global Entry also receive TSA PreCheck. In 2024, more than 20 million Americans had TSA PreCheck, with many also holding Global Entry memberships.
—with files from Global News’ Aaron D’Andrea and The Associated Press
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