Access to NEXUS and Global Entry programs for U.S.-bound travellers is currently unavailable at several Canadian airports due to the ongoing partial U.S. government shutdown. Airports in Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary and Montreal have posted advisories regarding the suspension of the programs.
Impact on Travellers
Calgary International Airport advised passengers travelling through U.S. Customs to allow for extra time to pass through security checks. Toronto Pearson International Airport encouraged travellers to use the Mobile Passport Control app to expedite processing at U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Vancouver International Airport stated the suspension is directly related to the partial U.S. Government shutdown, potentially impacting processing times for departing travellers.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Sunday it would shut down the Global Entry program for the duration of the shutdown. Initially, DHS planned to also shut down the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program, but later cancelled that closure.
The shutdown began Feb. 14 after Democrats and the White House failed to reach an agreement on legislation to fund DHS. Democrats are seeking changes to immigration operations related to President Donald Trump’s deportation campaign.
The NEXUS program expedites border crossings for frequent Canada-U.S. travellers by pre-screening individuals and allowing border officers to focus on security and criminal activity. Global Entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program, provides expedited kiosk access for pre-approved, low-risk travellers entering the United States. Travel industry experts estimate Global Entry can reduce customs processing time to 5-10 minutes, compared to 30-90 minutes for regular lines.
Global Entry members also receive TSA PreCheck. As of 2024, the Department of Homeland Security reported over 20 million Americans have TSA PreCheck, with millions also holding Global Entry memberships.
—with files from Global News’ Aaron D’Andrea and The Associated Press
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