.png){kind=icon}
Global Entry vs. NEXUS
✈️ Global Entry vs. NEXUS: Which Trusted Traveler Program Is Right for You?
When it comes to speeding through customs and security, both Global Entry and NEXUS offer major time-saving benefits. But while they share some similarities, they’re designed for slightly different types of travelers.
Here’s a detailed side-by-side comparison to help you decide which one is best for your needs.
🌎 What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that provides:
- 🛃 Expedited re-entry into the U.S. from international destinations
- 🖥️ Access to automated kiosks at major U.S. airports
- ✈️ TSA PreCheck included for faster airport security screening
- 📅 Valid for 5 years
Best for: Frequent international travelers flying into the U.S.
🇨🇦 What Is NEXUS?
NEXUS is a joint program run by both U.S. CBP and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). It provides:
- 🚘 Expedited land border crossing between the U.S. and Canada
- 🛬 Faster air entry into both countries at select airports
- ✈️ TSA PreCheck included for U.S. domestic flights
- 📅 Valid for 5 years
Best for: Travelers who frequently go between the U.S. and Canada by air or land
🔍 Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Global Entry | NEXUS |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Air Travel (International to U.S.) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (limited airports) |
| 🚘 Land Border (U.S.–Canada) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| ✈️ TSA PreCheck Included | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 💲 Cost | $100 (5 years) | $50 (5 years) |
| 👤 Eligibility | U.S. citizens, LPRs, and select nationals | U.S. and Canadian citizens, LPRs |
| 🛃 Interview Requirement | Yes (U.S. only) | Yes (U.S. + Canada) |
| 📍 Airport Availability | 75+ U.S. airports | Select U.S. & Canadian airports |
| 🧒 Children Need Accounts | Yes | Yes |
🤔 Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Global Entry if you:
- Travel internationally beyond just Canada
- Prefer access to more U.S. airports
- Want a simpler, U.S.-based enrollment process
🇨🇦 Choose NEXUS if you:
- Frequently travel to/from Canada
- Cross the land border often
- Want the cheapest trusted traveler option
💡If you qualify for NEXUS, you’ll get Global Entry + TSA PreCheck included—for half the price!
Both Global Entry and NEXUS are fantastic tools for reducing travel stress, saving time, and skipping lines. If most of your travel involves the U.S. and Canada, NEXUS is the best value. If you're traveling internationally beyond Canada, Global Entry may be more convenient.