This is a well-known pain point - you are indeed allowed to travel to the US just on your Nexus card, but so many agents don’t know the rules and will insist on a passport. Best just to bring your passport every time to avoid the hassle.
Personal anecdote: my CEO once only brought his Nexus to do YVR-LAX. Two gate agents insisted he needed a passport and were denying him boarding until he called concierge and someone came and got him boarded.
So it can be done, but as noted, it can be a pain.
Not an agent thing, it’s actually stated by both CBSA and CBP that you should carry your passport as proof of citizenship
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html
The [Air Canada website](https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/travel-requirements/travel-documents.html#/) also says passport is recommended, and I don’t disagree - though it also says a Nexus card is sufficient by itself.
I once got delayed and questioned by US customs as to why I presented 2 ID's once when driving to the US. I gave the agent my passport with my Nexus tucked just inside the cover. Such is life lol.
Yup. I've had CBP agents get annoyed when I had checked in with Nexus and was at their booth. Had my passport so no big deal, but after the second time I went to passport for check-in/gate ID
It wasn't like "you can't do this" but more "it screws up the computers so it's a huge pain in the ass and we don't get any of the advance info we would normally have and I have to enter you in from scratch like it was the early 2000s."
Good to know: Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status.
One of the first things at my nexus interview was to inform me I may only drive across the border without a passport if I fly they told me I must bring my passport.
This.
I’ve had gate agents at US airports unable to scan my NEXUS card, and just ask for my passport. “The system just doesn’t like the NEXUS cards” one said.
Super.
Pretty much this, coming from a \~15 year NEXUS holder. When flying to the US I used to just use the card and leave the passport in my bag. I even had one US trip where I forgot my passport but had no issues on just my NEXUS card. But over the years after two or three unpleasant encounters with agents who had absolutely no idea what the rules were I just gave up and just OLCI with my passport and then use my passport at the gate. Specifically I had an AC agent at YOW (who still works for AC at YOW much to my chagrin when I see them) and a UA agent at EWR absolutely go off on me about requiring a passport to board my flight. IMO the hassle isn't worth it.
I add my nexus so I can get precheck added to the boarding pass - else on the trip home boarding from the states, you can’t just hop in the pre line. They get shitty about it.
Using your NEXUS for the KTN versus using it for OLCI and at check-in/the gate are two different things. You can put your KTN in on the reservation and get TSA Pre (or have the check in agent add it) but still use your passport as your ID when checking in and boarding.
Okay. Thanks. KTN is what I was thinking of. No idea what OLCI is. I have added it as my travel doc # as well. (Where passport would go) with no issues, probably lucky.
I showed the gate agent the direct text on Air Canada’s website, and she still didn’t want to allow it. I had my passport though, thankfully. Next time, she remembered me and she said she was wrong, after she looked into it. Their systems have this weird label and it trips people up. And sometimes they don’t scan for some reason.
Was asked recently by US customs for a passport while in Nexus line. I asked this very question as had been told a Nexus card alone was sufficient.
This US border agent was extremely clear that a passport was a requirement at all times and I would not have been cleared to the US on my Nexus alone that day.
I travel regularly and that’s the one and only time I’ve been asked for a Passport.
YMMV.
edit: this was at a Canadian airport with US pre clearance.
That agent was very wrong, but I mean, what’re you gonna do about it other than comply if you want in, right?
I always bring it now too, but I always present my nexus and grab the passport if asked
Gate agent here. Nexus is 100% suitable for travel and it swipes no problem into our systems. I’ve done it for customers, and I even did it once travelling myself when I left my passport at home. It worked easily checking in for my leg to Seattle at the gate, and it went smoothly the next day returning home from Seattle when they called me up for a document check. Sorry you had issues!
Here’s a question for you: since Nexus is not proof of citizenship or residency, can a gate agent deny the use of the Nexus card (only) because they want proof of citizenship/residency to ensure they are eligible for entry? It’s a funny technicality because you need to be either a citizen or resident to be eligible for the program, but the Nexus card itself is explicitly not proof of either.
My understanding is this is part of the role of a gate agent, ensuring everyone is boarding is eligible and carrying proper documents.
I’m confused (I’m very new to nexus / just applied)… isn’t the whole point of nexus to confirm you’re eligible for entry and speed up the process? How does it do that if gate agents still have to check when you travel?
That's incorrect. My fiancé just got her Nexus card and she has French and British citizenship and is only a PR of Canada. I had assumed the same thing until we crossed the border last year and the US border agent told us that she only needed to have lived in Canada for 5 years in order to apply.
Not for every purpose, no. You wouldn't be able to use it to apply for a passport or fill out an I-9 for work authorization, no.
But the Canadian Government's manual for transport operators says this (https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/trans/guide-eng.html):
# "U.S. Citizens/Nationals
Although exempt from document entry requirements, U.S. citizens must satisfy a CBSA officer of their status and identity. Documents that can be used for proof of U.S. citizenship are:
* U.S. Passport
* U.S. Passport Card (for land and marine travel **only**)
* NEXUS card (see Part 6 for more information)
* Enhanced Driver's License (for land and marine travel **only"**
People do have an inconsistent experience with this, and it seems to be because the governments can't even provide consistent guidance. So the most conservative way to deal with the ambiguity is to always carry the passport -- even though the NEXUS card \*should\* be adequate.
Incorrect. Source from CBSA: [https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html)
https://preview.redd.it/a8yfrx14qy2d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f487f53c33e15c8c9ab3bb49970093a081b10dd6
It is not a document that can be used to verify citizenship or permanent residency. As I said, weird technicality, but this is reality.
I’ve had nexus for almost 20 years. I would cross at the Windsor-Detroit land crossing & would fly from CAN-US often enough, with JUST my Nexus. THIS CHANGED in 2021. Every flight since 2021, I’ve been asked to show my passport, so I know now just to bring it. I’ve NEVER been asked at a land crossing, but have friends who commute daily across and have said they might be asked 1-2x a year for proof of passport.
I was never denied crossing, but if the agent is in a bad mood, I can 100% see you being denied.
Only once, flying from Miami-Toronto, (before I started carrying my passport), the agent in Miami said there was no way I was getting on the plane with just my Nexus. I told her my passport was in Canada, I flew there with just a Nexus, how could I be denied flying back to my home country. Literally had to get multiple levels of security to let me on the plane. It was a mess.
Just bring your passport.
Yeah, I'll also observe both the CBP and CBSA have something like this on their websites:
"Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status."
Even though you usually get through without being asked for your passport I have always interpreted this as being one of the rules of the program.
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html
Well for one, you don't actually need to be a citizen to have NEXUS, so I would guess no? At the end of the day if both CBP and CBSA are saying I still should carry my passport, I carry my passport.
I posted this above but worth dropping here:
https://preview.redd.it/xb75onl5ry2d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7630d6f230346ce2bfb575468701bafe39dff613
Personal anecdote: My entire family got pulled in for a random compliance check once while crossing the land border via Nexus. CBP agent asked us for our passports and we didn't have them, they just said no problem and went on with the check. Haven't been checked since.
I have had AC do the same thing to me on a few occasions... they won't allow the NEXUS card even though it's allowed by CBP and CBSA.
I've gone stretches where one day it's fine, the next it isn't.
Makes no sense..
As posted elsewhere in the thread, both CBP and CBSA still require you to travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence even though most times this will go unchecked.
Definitely not clear-cut.. this CBP page (imo) implies otherwise
(in particular, the line "Canadian Citizens entering the United States by air are required to present a valid passport, or a NEXUS card when departing from Canada. Please be advised that if arriving in the United States on a flight not pre-cleared by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Canada, Global entry kiosks cannot be used by passengers only holding a NEXUS card, and the regular inspection lanes have to be used.")
https://www.help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-619?language=en_US
The "requirement" you're referring to may be read as a recommendation, it's not worded particularly strongly 🤷
News articles with statements from CBSA support this, anyways:
https://bc.ctvnews.ca/mobile/passenger-denied-boarding-over-travelling-with-only-a-nexus-card-1.3029989?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F
But as always, you're at the mercy of airline staff with varying levels of training/competence :')
The CBP and CBSA pages for the program have this to say:
CBP: ["Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status." - https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card)
CBSA: "Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status." - [https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card)
The news article goes on to explain this was not one random staffer's incompetence but that it's Porter's policy, that Westjet requires the same, and that AC requires it on the way back into Canada (no idea if still true or not - seems unlikely as article is from 2016). All in all it seems pretty clear to me that if you are travelling using Nexus and don't have your passport with you, you are eventually going to have a bad day.
Yes, those are the recommendations provided by the CBP and CBSA. And it is beneficial to have a passport, as only CBP and CBSA can verify citizenship from a NEXUS card (airlines can do so from a passport). But CBP and CBSA do not explicitly require it, so again, you're at the mercy of the airlines. I skimmed over the part where CBSA said airlines had the right to impose an additional passport requirement though, that's good to know!
Given how unclear and contradictory the different websites are, I've gone and dredged out the [US regulations](https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2023-title8-vol1/xml/CFR-2023-title8-vol1-sec212-1.xml) that determine what documents are sufficient to be admitted to the US. The relevant bit:
>**§ 212.1 Documentary requirements for nonimmigrants.**
>A valid unexpired visa that meets the requirements of part 215, subpart B, of this chapter, if applicable, and an unexpired passport, shall be presented by each arriving nonimmigrant alien except that the passport validity period for an applicant for admission who is a member of a class described in section 102 of the Act is not required to extend beyond the date of his application for admission if so admitted, and except as otherwise provided in the Act, this chapter, and for the following classes:
>(a) Citizens of Canada or Bermuda, Bahamian nationals or British subjects resident in certain islands —
>Canadian citizens**.** A visa is generally not required for Canadian citizens, except those Canadians that fall under nonimmigrant visa categories E, K, S, or V as provided in paragraphs (h), (l), and (m) of this section and 22 CFR 41.2. A valid unexpired passport is required for Canadian citizens arriving in the United States, except when meeting one of the following requirements:
>(i) NEXUS Program. **A Canadian citizen who is traveling as a participant in the NEXUS program,** and who is not otherwise required to present a passport and visa as provided in paragraphs (h), (l), and (m) of this section and 22 CFR 41.2, **may present a valid unexpired NEXUS program card** when using a NEXUS Air kiosk or when entering the United States from contiguous territory or adjacent islands at a land or sea port-of-entry. A Canadian citizen who enters the United States by pleasure vessel from Canada under the remote inspection system may present a valid unexpired NEXUS program card.
Of course, as everyone in this thread has been saying, regardless of what the actual rules are experience is so varied that you're just asking for trouble at some point to travel without a passport!
An anecdote regarding this that happened to me:
I flew to the US and checked-in using my Nexus card instead of passport by mistake. I used the Nexus lane at YYZ and the agent waved me over, said he wanted to see my passport. I said I checked-in with Nexus and he said “yeah, that’s why I wanted to see your passport. Check-in with the passport next time.”
How good that info is, not sure, but the passport is like a golden ticket- it’s never going to be in dispute so long as it is valid.
Coming home I check-in using the Nexus card since there is no customs check on that side, it isn’t until I land in Canada. Outbound I do the passport.
Also, TSA won’t allow you to use the PreCheck lane if it isn’t on your BP- I’ve tried. Unlike in Canada where there isn’t an indicator on your BP, you show the physical card. So outbound to US I use passport, inbound I use Nexus (for check-in).
Never heard of denied boarding to the US for just using your nexus card. I do know some of their readers don’t take nexus and it’s a bit more of a pain for them sometimes, but that’s about it.
https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/travel-requirements/travel-documents.html#/ under travel between US and Canada.
Note the "one of". It's allowed, except for potentially US/CAN dual citizens which is an edge case and may require a passport even when using nexus.
Individual airlines can choose not to accept nexus alone, however aircanada does and has published this fact on the listed website.
Not if you enter the NEXUS card correctly
https://preview.redd.it/wi5fswrme03d1.png?width=1310&format=png&auto=webp&s=2ae664df166759d2c75f252c944a22a8851d9c75
Except both CBSA and CBP state you should also carry your passport as proof of citizenship
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html
I hate, just HATE it when people do this
Sure you *can* go to a foreign country without your passport but why would you.
Sure you *can* use your Nexus card in lieu of a passport but you know it is more work for EVERYONE
Your passport does not weight a million pounds. Put it in your pocket and stop wasting everyone's time.
Because sometimes our passports are about to expire while the NEXUS card has a good few years left on it. Or the passport is off at an embassy getting a visa put in it. Or the passport's lost or been stolen. Or it's *been* stolen in the past and you don't want to risk it again. Plenty of reasons.
So to borrow your own words:
>You are an adult
>Do what you want
The other reason to carry your passport is that if the SHTF, and Air Canada (or you yourself) rebooks you on another airline, you might be stuck if they’re one of the many other US airlines that doesn’t recognize Nexus cards.
yeah the one time my passport wasn't available and i tried flying with nexus alone my first leg was with united (domestic, msp to den) and they wouldn't check me in despite my actual inbound flight to canada was with air canada who would have let me check in. i had to book a new itinerary on all air canada metal
Coming back to this, my experience was actually that United was the airline that was the *most* "put together" about NEXUS. In Chicago they had no issue checking me in and letting me board, in Denver I just had to show them the part on their own website where it said NEXUS was a valid exemption to the passport requirement, and one time flying out of a smaller town in Montana they insisted on calling some central office to confirm even after seeing that, but allowed me to check-in after the person on the other end confirmed it.
https://bc.ctvnews.ca/passenger-denied-boarding-over-travelling-with-only-a-nexus-card-1.3029989?cache=%3FclipId
This same conversation has been happening for many years. Bring your passport always to be safe
Some %age of the time you'll get hassle over it, but you can travel with Nexus alone. Probably best to arrive a bit early if you don't have a passport as not all check-in/gate agents are familiar with this....
The airlines don’t put forward the same rules as immigration, their rules are determined by CATSA. That’s why you can cross the land border with less documentation than boarding a plane.
Air Canada is particularly weird about this. I’ve had no issues with WestJet when flying between the US and Canada with my Nexus. However, Air Canada’s system can’t seem to process Nexus cards and gate agents really struggle with them.
I have encountered this in San Fran, where the US agents didn’t understand Nexus was sufficient. They wanted my passport before letting me board to return to Canada (Air Canada flight, but their US partner did the US checkin). I did not have my passport.
I had to get a supervisor to sort it out and they did. I boarded and made it home.
The issue is that NEXUS is a Canadian program name. In airports where the bulk of their traffic is domestic or other internationals (non-Canadian), a gate worker can reasonably never encounter this issue and not be informed.
Key point: yes, Nexus is legally all you need, by US law. Push to get someone senior who understands that. They don’t have the right to deny you boarding for using NEXUS in your situation, but that doesn’t mean they won’t. In a physical sense, they can absolutely prevent you even if they’re wrong.
Been there, done that. Traveled many times to the United States with different airlines, Americans and Canadians, none of them accepted NEXUS for check in.
Just did my nexus interview at YYZ last week. The CBP officer asked me to use my passport for airline check in and nexus for border when flying to US. Not sure if it’s a new rule or not.
Always carry both...flew AC into YYZ Toronto from US this weekend and went thru nexus customs line and the machine asked for both my nexus card and CAN passport
It is noted by Nexus that you need all required documents passports and visas are included in possible needed items https://infopages.traveldoc.aero/Information/NexusCard
I flew to Miami with Air Canada last month, I only had my Nexus card, it was a major hassle trying to check my bags. The first agent had no idea how to handle the situation, he insisted that I needed a passport, I advised him that it was perfectly legal to travel to the US with just my Nexus card. Eventually another able was able to get me processed, but stated that the AC website says you must have a passport! His justification was what would I do in a scenario in which our flight is diverted to a different country?
I won’t even get into the shitshow of trying to fly back from Miami with Flair. Let’s just say I will be bringing my passport moving forward.
From other posts, airlines uses Timatic as their reference for passport requirement (independent of the government website or even letter from consulate…). And my understanding is that agent can make the ultimate call if they allow to proceed or not since the airline is responsible if you are rejected from entry to another country.
With that said, another comment posted a screenshot of Timatic that said nexus is an exception to passport. Showing that to the agent might help…
I saw a fight with a business traveller last year who was traveling through customs to the US and didn’t have his passport. The machine was down and he was sent over to a secondary line. When they realized he didn’t have his passport they started to argue. He was told in no uncertain terms he was required to have his passport each and every time he flew to the united states and that his card was supplementary. He demanded to see written documentation and they provided it to him. I never thought people flew without passports but seemingly they do.
I use to travel with just my nexus- then I got pulled over in AZ and ohhh my was it a hassle. They were not happy I didn’t have my passport on me (I’d been there over a week and was shopping-why would I have my passport!). I almost got arrested 😵😵
I washed my passport once while I was in Florida. I was able to use my nexus at MIA. But I’ve also tried to check in using only my nexus and they ask me for my passport instead.
Maybe things have chained - haven’t done as much cross border recently, but I thought you were required to have your passport with Nexus as well. Perhaps it’s not required and only something I did to be safe though.
If you’re traveling on a TN permit, be absolutely sure to carry your passport since that is the only proof you have of your legal work status in the US that CBP will accept.
I almost lost both my Nexus and TN status last year flying out of YYZ due to a POS CBP agent, who despite seeing my I-94 showing my TN status on his screen, denied me boarding due to not having my passport and sent me to secondary. The CBP folks in secondary looked at me as if I was a brain dead imbecile (fair play), and told me I could either come back with my passport (that I stupidly left back in the states) or get a visa waiver for $550 (iirc) on the spot.
I’ll never see that $550 again, but it sure was a damn relief that both my Nexus and TN were still valid.
I once attempted to cross the land border with my nexus only and was reprimanded. They eventually let me through but it was not worth it. It may be legal to use it only to cross but its not worth the hassle.
Remember that not all PR is allowed to enter the US depending on their country of origin (Filipino passports come to mind) so to enter the US, it is required to either have proof of citizenship from Canada which allows entry without a visa or to have the passport from country of origin with the appropriate US visa stamp. The PR card by itself doesn't allow entry into the USA.
Technically, the Nexus card is encoded with passport information and can be used by itself but I never take any chance and travel without my Canadian passport in case someone needs to check it.
I only feel safe crossing the land border with nexus only. For flying I always bring my passport for US flights. I didn't even think you could fly with nexus only...
Always travel with both passport and Nexus. Normally, I don't have any issues showing just my Nexus at check-in/customs/boarding. However, on my last trip in January, the US customs agent refused my Nexus and insisted I show my passport. On the way home, the Air Canada check-in agent in Honolulu specifically asked to see my passport as well. I mentioned that I had my nexus but they still wanted my passport.
I had an issue with AC once I think it was. Same thing. Generally I don’t think the desk agents are trained to know that it’s acceptable. Same goes with the US CUSTOMS. They (to my knowledge) float around quite a bit, and there’s lots of people in Vancouver B.C., who have nexus, to go south, vs all the other places across Canada (except probably southern Ontario) but still. They get around, and don’t see too many of them, then all of a sudden they end up at a nexus airport and they try to deny you. Me and my wife both have nexus, and we had separate agents one time at YVR, I got let through hassle free. Asked me about where and why I’m going, and have a good day. She had to argue, and almost got denied her flight because the guy didn’t know about it, and refused to look it up.
You shouldn’t be denied for Canada-US travel. Nexus was made for this. You’d be within your rights to make a fuss if you wanted until someone came and told the gate or bag drop off agent what was up. But it’s probably just easier for you to always have your passport on hand just in case. My colleague had some dumb agents at YVR one time when connecting being confused by his Nexus card lol.
I personally bring my passport everywhere, even within inter-provincial or in-province travel where only my license is required.
As per the comments it seems as though the Agent and Air Canada are at fault.
Definitely blast both of them on social media. Name and shame seems to be the only way to get ppl to learn to do their jobs and force company's to take action such as training and reprimands
1000% you need a passport to fly. Maybe there is fine print but NOT worth fighting for and missing your flight. Or getting stuck outside the country. Nexus can get you through customs and priority security but checking in online you'll need a passport number, and it has to match the passport you present when you check a bag and when you board the flight. They are very clear with this in the Nexus application process. It is in addition to your passport as identification, not in place of and used as identification. I am on the second year of my second card, so 7 year Nexus holder, and travelling with just the card has never even been a consideration based on the detailed overview they give you in the application process.
You can still use a passport, and skip the lines using the nexus card.
Most people just to carry both.
I even use my nexus returning from international travel. I board using my passport but at the CBSA I use my nexus for speed.
NEXUS is not a replacement for a passport. For $50, you get, for five years:
-Access to dedicated Global Entry lanes the or the Global Entry app which can save you hours at a busy US airport
-Access to dedicated TSA Pre-check lines and expedited screening without the need to remove liquids from bag, laptops, or shoes.
-Access to dedicated Verified Traveller lanes which also allow you to keep your electronics in your bag and small liquids unsorted
-Access to NEXUS lanes at land crossings which can cut many hours from your border crossing
-Screening questions asked by an officer reduced to nothing or nearly nothing
Yeah, that's the point of having one.
This is a well-known pain point - you are indeed allowed to travel to the US just on your Nexus card, but so many agents don’t know the rules and will insist on a passport. Best just to bring your passport every time to avoid the hassle.
Personal anecdote: my CEO once only brought his Nexus to do YVR-LAX. Two gate agents insisted he needed a passport and were denying him boarding until he called concierge and someone came and got him boarded. So it can be done, but as noted, it can be a pain.
Sorry, who is the concierge?
Aeroplan super elite status gives you access to a concierge
What if I’m aeroplan budget economy?
Bookmark the relevant citation on your phone’s browser because you’re on your own.
Then they spit on you after they refuse to help you.
Lol’d
youre fucked.
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Not an agent thing, it’s actually stated by both CBSA and CBP that you should carry your passport as proof of citizenship https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html
The [Air Canada website](https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/travel-requirements/travel-documents.html#/) also says passport is recommended, and I don’t disagree - though it also says a Nexus card is sufficient by itself.
Recommended is not required. Yes, you might as well to make life easier, but no, you don’t have to bring your passport.
You *should* but legally you can travel on just a nexus
I once got delayed and questioned by US customs as to why I presented 2 ID's once when driving to the US. I gave the agent my passport with my Nexus tucked just inside the cover. Such is life lol.
Yup. I've had CBP agents get annoyed when I had checked in with Nexus and was at their booth. Had my passport so no big deal, but after the second time I went to passport for check-in/gate ID
Same lol. So weird, like, your job is to know the rules.
It wasn't like "you can't do this" but more "it screws up the computers so it's a huge pain in the ass and we don't get any of the advance info we would normally have and I have to enter you in from scratch like it was the early 2000s."
Good to know: Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status.
Nexus is proof of citizenship. You should not need a passport when entering the states from Canada. But gate agents are often poorly trained
One of the first things at my nexus interview was to inform me I may only drive across the border without a passport if I fly they told me I must bring my passport.
This is the right answer to avoid any inconveniences.
This. I’ve had gate agents at US airports unable to scan my NEXUS card, and just ask for my passport. “The system just doesn’t like the NEXUS cards” one said. Super.
Pretty much this, coming from a \~15 year NEXUS holder. When flying to the US I used to just use the card and leave the passport in my bag. I even had one US trip where I forgot my passport but had no issues on just my NEXUS card. But over the years after two or three unpleasant encounters with agents who had absolutely no idea what the rules were I just gave up and just OLCI with my passport and then use my passport at the gate. Specifically I had an AC agent at YOW (who still works for AC at YOW much to my chagrin when I see them) and a UA agent at EWR absolutely go off on me about requiring a passport to board my flight. IMO the hassle isn't worth it.
Should never put your passport in your checked luggage no matter what. Even if traveling domestically.
I add my nexus so I can get precheck added to the boarding pass - else on the trip home boarding from the states, you can’t just hop in the pre line. They get shitty about it.
Using your NEXUS for the KTN versus using it for OLCI and at check-in/the gate are two different things. You can put your KTN in on the reservation and get TSA Pre (or have the check in agent add it) but still use your passport as your ID when checking in and boarding.
Okay. Thanks. KTN is what I was thinking of. No idea what OLCI is. I have added it as my travel doc # as well. (Where passport would go) with no issues, probably lucky.
OLCI = Online check in
I was told by CBP customer service that passports are always required when travelling with NEXUS
I showed the gate agent the direct text on Air Canada’s website, and she still didn’t want to allow it. I had my passport though, thankfully. Next time, she remembered me and she said she was wrong, after she looked into it. Their systems have this weird label and it trips people up. And sometimes they don’t scan for some reason.
Yes! Had this happen in Las Vegas. TSA was fine but ticketing agent was the problem. We always bring both.
TLDR: American airport security are poorly trained and enjoy flexing their power
Was asked recently by US customs for a passport while in Nexus line. I asked this very question as had been told a Nexus card alone was sufficient. This US border agent was extremely clear that a passport was a requirement at all times and I would not have been cleared to the US on my Nexus alone that day. I travel regularly and that’s the one and only time I’ve been asked for a Passport. YMMV. edit: this was at a Canadian airport with US pre clearance.
That agent was very wrong, but I mean, what’re you gonna do about it other than comply if you want in, right? I always bring it now too, but I always present my nexus and grab the passport if asked
Gate agent here. Nexus is 100% suitable for travel and it swipes no problem into our systems. I’ve done it for customers, and I even did it once travelling myself when I left my passport at home. It worked easily checking in for my leg to Seattle at the gate, and it went smoothly the next day returning home from Seattle when they called me up for a document check. Sorry you had issues!
Here’s a question for you: since Nexus is not proof of citizenship or residency, can a gate agent deny the use of the Nexus card (only) because they want proof of citizenship/residency to ensure they are eligible for entry? It’s a funny technicality because you need to be either a citizen or resident to be eligible for the program, but the Nexus card itself is explicitly not proof of either. My understanding is this is part of the role of a gate agent, ensuring everyone is boarding is eligible and carrying proper documents.
I’m confused (I’m very new to nexus / just applied)… isn’t the whole point of nexus to confirm you’re eligible for entry and speed up the process? How does it do that if gate agents still have to check when you travel?
That's incorrect. My fiancé just got her Nexus card and she has French and British citizenship and is only a PR of Canada. I had assumed the same thing until we crossed the border last year and the US border agent told us that she only needed to have lived in Canada for 5 years in order to apply.
What exactly did I say is incorrect?
I misread residency and thought you said permanent residency (PR) which is not a requirement. My mistake
The nexus card is proof of citizen ship! It’s on the card.
I had one when I was not a citizen, because it's possible to get one when PR with 3 years proof of residency.
They print your country of citizenship on the card. It's not merely possessing the card -- it's literally a data field on it.
mine says GBR despite the fact i'm a canadian citizen (i naturalized after i got nexus, but i've received a new card since getting my citizenship)
Just because it has citizenship information on it doesn't mean it's a legally recognized proof of citizenship
Not for every purpose, no. You wouldn't be able to use it to apply for a passport or fill out an I-9 for work authorization, no. But the Canadian Government's manual for transport operators says this (https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/trans/guide-eng.html): # "U.S. Citizens/Nationals Although exempt from document entry requirements, U.S. citizens must satisfy a CBSA officer of their status and identity. Documents that can be used for proof of U.S. citizenship are: * U.S. Passport * U.S. Passport Card (for land and marine travel **only**) * NEXUS card (see Part 6 for more information) * Enhanced Driver's License (for land and marine travel **only"** People do have an inconsistent experience with this, and it seems to be because the governments can't even provide consistent guidance. So the most conservative way to deal with the ambiguity is to always carry the passport -- even though the NEXUS card \*should\* be adequate.
Incorrect. Source from CBSA: [https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html) https://preview.redd.it/a8yfrx14qy2d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f487f53c33e15c8c9ab3bb49970093a081b10dd6 It is not a document that can be used to verify citizenship or permanent residency. As I said, weird technicality, but this is reality.
This is the way facts should always be presented. Backed up by links and screenshots
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I’ve had nexus for almost 20 years. I would cross at the Windsor-Detroit land crossing & would fly from CAN-US often enough, with JUST my Nexus. THIS CHANGED in 2021. Every flight since 2021, I’ve been asked to show my passport, so I know now just to bring it. I’ve NEVER been asked at a land crossing, but have friends who commute daily across and have said they might be asked 1-2x a year for proof of passport. I was never denied crossing, but if the agent is in a bad mood, I can 100% see you being denied. Only once, flying from Miami-Toronto, (before I started carrying my passport), the agent in Miami said there was no way I was getting on the plane with just my Nexus. I told her my passport was in Canada, I flew there with just a Nexus, how could I be denied flying back to my home country. Literally had to get multiple levels of security to let me on the plane. It was a mess. Just bring your passport.
Yeah, I'll also observe both the CBP and CBSA have something like this on their websites: "Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status." Even though you usually get through without being asked for your passport I have always interpreted this as being one of the rules of the program. https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html
But doesn’t your nexus prove citizenship?
Well for one, you don't actually need to be a citizen to have NEXUS, so I would guess no? At the end of the day if both CBP and CBSA are saying I still should carry my passport, I carry my passport.
I posted this above but worth dropping here: https://preview.redd.it/xb75onl5ry2d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7630d6f230346ce2bfb575468701bafe39dff613
Yeah exactly, that's the snippet I was referring to as well and it's on the sites for both countries.
No it doesnt
Personal anecdote: My entire family got pulled in for a random compliance check once while crossing the land border via Nexus. CBP agent asked us for our passports and we didn't have them, they just said no problem and went on with the check. Haven't been checked since.
I have had AC do the same thing to me on a few occasions... they won't allow the NEXUS card even though it's allowed by CBP and CBSA. I've gone stretches where one day it's fine, the next it isn't. Makes no sense..
As posted elsewhere in the thread, both CBP and CBSA still require you to travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence even though most times this will go unchecked.
Definitely not clear-cut.. this CBP page (imo) implies otherwise (in particular, the line "Canadian Citizens entering the United States by air are required to present a valid passport, or a NEXUS card when departing from Canada. Please be advised that if arriving in the United States on a flight not pre-cleared by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Canada, Global entry kiosks cannot be used by passengers only holding a NEXUS card, and the regular inspection lanes have to be used.") https://www.help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-619?language=en_US The "requirement" you're referring to may be read as a recommendation, it's not worded particularly strongly 🤷 News articles with statements from CBSA support this, anyways: https://bc.ctvnews.ca/mobile/passenger-denied-boarding-over-travelling-with-only-a-nexus-card-1.3029989?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F But as always, you're at the mercy of airline staff with varying levels of training/competence :')
The CBP and CBSA pages for the program have this to say: CBP: ["Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status." - https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card) CBSA: "Remember to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence in case you are required to prove your citizenship or permanent residence status." - [https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/nexus/card) The news article goes on to explain this was not one random staffer's incompetence but that it's Porter's policy, that Westjet requires the same, and that AC requires it on the way back into Canada (no idea if still true or not - seems unlikely as article is from 2016). All in all it seems pretty clear to me that if you are travelling using Nexus and don't have your passport with you, you are eventually going to have a bad day.
Yes, those are the recommendations provided by the CBP and CBSA. And it is beneficial to have a passport, as only CBP and CBSA can verify citizenship from a NEXUS card (airlines can do so from a passport). But CBP and CBSA do not explicitly require it, so again, you're at the mercy of the airlines. I skimmed over the part where CBSA said airlines had the right to impose an additional passport requirement though, that's good to know!
Given how unclear and contradictory the different websites are, I've gone and dredged out the [US regulations](https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2023-title8-vol1/xml/CFR-2023-title8-vol1-sec212-1.xml) that determine what documents are sufficient to be admitted to the US. The relevant bit: >**§ 212.1 Documentary requirements for nonimmigrants.** >A valid unexpired visa that meets the requirements of part 215, subpart B, of this chapter, if applicable, and an unexpired passport, shall be presented by each arriving nonimmigrant alien except that the passport validity period for an applicant for admission who is a member of a class described in section 102 of the Act is not required to extend beyond the date of his application for admission if so admitted, and except as otherwise provided in the Act, this chapter, and for the following classes: >(a) Citizens of Canada or Bermuda, Bahamian nationals or British subjects resident in certain islands — >Canadian citizens**.** A visa is generally not required for Canadian citizens, except those Canadians that fall under nonimmigrant visa categories E, K, S, or V as provided in paragraphs (h), (l), and (m) of this section and 22 CFR 41.2. A valid unexpired passport is required for Canadian citizens arriving in the United States, except when meeting one of the following requirements: >(i) NEXUS Program. **A Canadian citizen who is traveling as a participant in the NEXUS program,** and who is not otherwise required to present a passport and visa as provided in paragraphs (h), (l), and (m) of this section and 22 CFR 41.2, **may present a valid unexpired NEXUS program card** when using a NEXUS Air kiosk or when entering the United States from contiguous territory or adjacent islands at a land or sea port-of-entry. A Canadian citizen who enters the United States by pleasure vessel from Canada under the remote inspection system may present a valid unexpired NEXUS program card. Of course, as everyone in this thread has been saying, regardless of what the actual rules are experience is so varied that you're just asking for trouble at some point to travel without a passport!
An anecdote regarding this that happened to me: I flew to the US and checked-in using my Nexus card instead of passport by mistake. I used the Nexus lane at YYZ and the agent waved me over, said he wanted to see my passport. I said I checked-in with Nexus and he said “yeah, that’s why I wanted to see your passport. Check-in with the passport next time.” How good that info is, not sure, but the passport is like a golden ticket- it’s never going to be in dispute so long as it is valid.
But then when I check in with my passport in the US I don't get pre check! So annoying
You can get it, there's a section during the checkin where you can provide your PASS ID (separate from passport) so that you can get pre-check.
Coming home I check-in using the Nexus card since there is no customs check on that side, it isn’t until I land in Canada. Outbound I do the passport. Also, TSA won’t allow you to use the PreCheck lane if it isn’t on your BP- I’ve tried. Unlike in Canada where there isn’t an indicator on your BP, you show the physical card. So outbound to US I use passport, inbound I use Nexus (for check-in).
There's a section on your checkin for providing your nexus ID, separate of your passport.
If you use your passport to check-in, you can always enter your Nexus under the KTN field. That lets you use PreCheck.
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Never heard of denied boarding to the US for just using your nexus card. I do know some of their readers don’t take nexus and it’s a bit more of a pain for them sometimes, but that’s about it.
https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/travel-requirements/travel-documents.html#/ under travel between US and Canada. Note the "one of". It's allowed, except for potentially US/CAN dual citizens which is an edge case and may require a passport even when using nexus. Individual airlines can choose not to accept nexus alone, however aircanada does and has published this fact on the listed website.
One issue is TIMATIC says passport required and doesn’t mention NEXUS.
Not if you enter the NEXUS card correctly https://preview.redd.it/wi5fswrme03d1.png?width=1310&format=png&auto=webp&s=2ae664df166759d2c75f252c944a22a8851d9c75
NEXUS is a recognize document to travel in the US and Canada. It’s known that a lot of staff in airports is unaware of this.
Except both CBSA and CBP state you should also carry your passport as proof of citizenship https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/travel-voyage/prog/nexus/how-utiliser-eng.html
I hate, just HATE it when people do this Sure you *can* go to a foreign country without your passport but why would you. Sure you *can* use your Nexus card in lieu of a passport but you know it is more work for EVERYONE Your passport does not weight a million pounds. Put it in your pocket and stop wasting everyone's time.
Because sometimes our passports are about to expire while the NEXUS card has a good few years left on it. Or the passport is off at an embassy getting a visa put in it. Or the passport's lost or been stolen. Or it's *been* stolen in the past and you don't want to risk it again. Plenty of reasons. So to borrow your own words: >You are an adult >Do what you want
The other reason to carry your passport is that if the SHTF, and Air Canada (or you yourself) rebooks you on another airline, you might be stuck if they’re one of the many other US airlines that doesn’t recognize Nexus cards.
yeah the one time my passport wasn't available and i tried flying with nexus alone my first leg was with united (domestic, msp to den) and they wouldn't check me in despite my actual inbound flight to canada was with air canada who would have let me check in. i had to book a new itinerary on all air canada metal
Coming back to this, my experience was actually that United was the airline that was the *most* "put together" about NEXUS. In Chicago they had no issue checking me in and letting me board, in Denver I just had to show them the part on their own website where it said NEXUS was a valid exemption to the passport requirement, and one time flying out of a smaller town in Montana they insisted on calling some central office to confirm even after seeing that, but allowed me to check-in after the person on the other end confirmed it.
https://bc.ctvnews.ca/passenger-denied-boarding-over-travelling-with-only-a-nexus-card-1.3029989?cache=%3FclipId This same conversation has been happening for many years. Bring your passport always to be safe
I always have my passport no matter what. It's not worth arguing about and if they ask its at the ready
Some %age of the time you'll get hassle over it, but you can travel with Nexus alone. Probably best to arrive a bit early if you don't have a passport as not all check-in/gate agents are familiar with this....
The airlines don’t put forward the same rules as immigration, their rules are determined by CATSA. That’s why you can cross the land border with less documentation than boarding a plane.
Passport = proof of citizenship. Nexus is a card that allows for faster / pre-cleared travel. Always bring both.
Air Canada is particularly weird about this. I’ve had no issues with WestJet when flying between the US and Canada with my Nexus. However, Air Canada’s system can’t seem to process Nexus cards and gate agents really struggle with them.
I have encountered this in San Fran, where the US agents didn’t understand Nexus was sufficient. They wanted my passport before letting me board to return to Canada (Air Canada flight, but their US partner did the US checkin). I did not have my passport. I had to get a supervisor to sort it out and they did. I boarded and made it home. The issue is that NEXUS is a Canadian program name. In airports where the bulk of their traffic is domestic or other internationals (non-Canadian), a gate worker can reasonably never encounter this issue and not be informed. Key point: yes, Nexus is legally all you need, by US law. Push to get someone senior who understands that. They don’t have the right to deny you boarding for using NEXUS in your situation, but that doesn’t mean they won’t. In a physical sense, they can absolutely prevent you even if they’re wrong.
Been there, done that. Traveled many times to the United States with different airlines, Americans and Canadians, none of them accepted NEXUS for check in.
Just did my nexus interview at YYZ last week. The CBP officer asked me to use my passport for airline check in and nexus for border when flying to US. Not sure if it’s a new rule or not.
Always carry both...flew AC into YYZ Toronto from US this weekend and went thru nexus customs line and the machine asked for both my nexus card and CAN passport
Yes happened to me in LA . Take a passport some in the US don’t even know what a nexus is .
Carry your passport. End of.
It is noted by Nexus that you need all required documents passports and visas are included in possible needed items https://infopages.traveldoc.aero/Information/NexusCard
I’ve flown before to the US and just used my NEXUS, however I had my passport as well in case I ran into any issues.
I flew to Miami with Air Canada last month, I only had my Nexus card, it was a major hassle trying to check my bags. The first agent had no idea how to handle the situation, he insisted that I needed a passport, I advised him that it was perfectly legal to travel to the US with just my Nexus card. Eventually another able was able to get me processed, but stated that the AC website says you must have a passport! His justification was what would I do in a scenario in which our flight is diverted to a different country? I won’t even get into the shitshow of trying to fly back from Miami with Flair. Let’s just say I will be bringing my passport moving forward.
From other posts, airlines uses Timatic as their reference for passport requirement (independent of the government website or even letter from consulate…). And my understanding is that agent can make the ultimate call if they allow to proceed or not since the airline is responsible if you are rejected from entry to another country. With that said, another comment posted a screenshot of Timatic that said nexus is an exception to passport. Showing that to the agent might help…
You have to carry your passport when traveling with NEXUS, don’t you? Isn’t that a major point that’s made when you interview and agree to the T&Cs?!
I saw a fight with a business traveller last year who was traveling through customs to the US and didn’t have his passport. The machine was down and he was sent over to a secondary line. When they realized he didn’t have his passport they started to argue. He was told in no uncertain terms he was required to have his passport each and every time he flew to the united states and that his card was supplementary. He demanded to see written documentation and they provided it to him. I never thought people flew without passports but seemingly they do.
I use to travel with just my nexus- then I got pulled over in AZ and ohhh my was it a hassle. They were not happy I didn’t have my passport on me (I’d been there over a week and was shopping-why would I have my passport!). I almost got arrested 😵😵
I washed my passport once while I was in Florida. I was able to use my nexus at MIA. But I’ve also tried to check in using only my nexus and they ask me for my passport instead.
It is but AC agents are totally unreliable about this.
Maybe things have chained - haven’t done as much cross border recently, but I thought you were required to have your passport with Nexus as well. Perhaps it’s not required and only something I did to be safe though.
CBP and CBSA both still have a statement to that effect on their sites, yes.
Why not just bring your passport to save yourself the hassle?
A few days ago I was unable to check n using nexus and they said the connection has been down for several days and thus they need the passport.
Flying from Toronto to the US on Nexus pre-covid, I was told by US customs I needed my passport and Nexus card to fly.
Nexus only gets me into the short security line and customers line. I still show my passport and boarding pass 9 times before I get on the plane.
If you’re traveling on a TN permit, be absolutely sure to carry your passport since that is the only proof you have of your legal work status in the US that CBP will accept. I almost lost both my Nexus and TN status last year flying out of YYZ due to a POS CBP agent, who despite seeing my I-94 showing my TN status on his screen, denied me boarding due to not having my passport and sent me to secondary. The CBP folks in secondary looked at me as if I was a brain dead imbecile (fair play), and told me I could either come back with my passport (that I stupidly left back in the states) or get a visa waiver for $550 (iirc) on the spot. I’ll never see that $550 again, but it sure was a damn relief that both my Nexus and TN were still valid.
I once attempted to cross the land border with my nexus only and was reprimanded. They eventually let me through but it was not worth it. It may be legal to use it only to cross but its not worth the hassle.
Remember that not all PR is allowed to enter the US depending on their country of origin (Filipino passports come to mind) so to enter the US, it is required to either have proof of citizenship from Canada which allows entry without a visa or to have the passport from country of origin with the appropriate US visa stamp. The PR card by itself doesn't allow entry into the USA. Technically, the Nexus card is encoded with passport information and can be used by itself but I never take any chance and travel without my Canadian passport in case someone needs to check it.
Some agents power trip too. It’s not worth it to fight them, just save yourself from the headache from such people.
I only feel safe crossing the land border with nexus only. For flying I always bring my passport for US flights. I didn't even think you could fly with nexus only...
I’ve never had any issues fly to the US with just my Nexus, but I always bring my passport just in case.
Always travel with both passport and Nexus. Normally, I don't have any issues showing just my Nexus at check-in/customs/boarding. However, on my last trip in January, the US customs agent refused my Nexus and insisted I show my passport. On the way home, the Air Canada check-in agent in Honolulu specifically asked to see my passport as well. I mentioned that I had my nexus but they still wanted my passport.
Border agents can do whatever they want, if they say suck my d!ck, you have to go down and do it
I use my nexus for land border crossings and passport for flights… it’s just simpler and a land crossing will never give you problems with your nexus
I had an issue with AC once I think it was. Same thing. Generally I don’t think the desk agents are trained to know that it’s acceptable. Same goes with the US CUSTOMS. They (to my knowledge) float around quite a bit, and there’s lots of people in Vancouver B.C., who have nexus, to go south, vs all the other places across Canada (except probably southern Ontario) but still. They get around, and don’t see too many of them, then all of a sudden they end up at a nexus airport and they try to deny you. Me and my wife both have nexus, and we had separate agents one time at YVR, I got let through hassle free. Asked me about where and why I’m going, and have a good day. She had to argue, and almost got denied her flight because the guy didn’t know about it, and refused to look it up.
You shouldn’t be denied for Canada-US travel. Nexus was made for this. You’d be within your rights to make a fuss if you wanted until someone came and told the gate or bag drop off agent what was up. But it’s probably just easier for you to always have your passport on hand just in case. My colleague had some dumb agents at YVR one time when connecting being confused by his Nexus card lol. I personally bring my passport everywhere, even within inter-provincial or in-province travel where only my license is required.
Nexus is just to skip the customs queue for air travel.
As per the comments it seems as though the Agent and Air Canada are at fault. Definitely blast both of them on social media. Name and shame seems to be the only way to get ppl to learn to do their jobs and force company's to take action such as training and reprimands
1000% you need a passport to fly. Maybe there is fine print but NOT worth fighting for and missing your flight. Or getting stuck outside the country. Nexus can get you through customs and priority security but checking in online you'll need a passport number, and it has to match the passport you present when you check a bag and when you board the flight. They are very clear with this in the Nexus application process. It is in addition to your passport as identification, not in place of and used as identification. I am on the second year of my second card, so 7 year Nexus holder, and travelling with just the card has never even been a consideration based on the detailed overview they give you in the application process.
That’s why I don’t see the point of having one ! Passport still takes precedent over everything !
Nexus is still faster especially at land borders and airport security lines. At the current rate of $50/5 years it’s a bargain.
I kinda agreed but with all the confusion when checking in, having a passport seems like the safest way !
You can still use a passport, and skip the lines using the nexus card. Most people just to carry both. I even use my nexus returning from international travel. I board using my passport but at the CBSA I use my nexus for speed.
Usually at online check-in you just enter both, there is nothing confusing about it.
NEXUS is not a replacement for a passport. For $50, you get, for five years: -Access to dedicated Global Entry lanes the or the Global Entry app which can save you hours at a busy US airport -Access to dedicated TSA Pre-check lines and expedited screening without the need to remove liquids from bag, laptops, or shoes. -Access to dedicated Verified Traveller lanes which also allow you to keep your electronics in your bag and small liquids unsorted -Access to NEXUS lanes at land crossings which can cut many hours from your border crossing -Screening questions asked by an officer reduced to nothing or nearly nothing Yeah, that's the point of having one.
Still gets you priority security and priority customs & immigration
Having to have my passport with me doesn't make using the NEXUS lines etc. slower.