TSA Precheck vs. NEXUS: Which travel program is right for you in 2024?

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Dealing with the tedious security and customs processes at airports can frustrate travelers, but trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and NEXUS are designed to ease these burdens. Both programs provide expedited security measures but cater to different travel needs and vary in their coverage and benefits. Understanding the distinctions between TSA PreCheck and NEXUS is crucial for travelers looking to navigate checkpoints smoothly and efficiently.

To assist you in understanding these two programs, we explore the main differences and similarities between TSA PreCheck and NEXUS, discussing eligibility criteria, benefits, costs, and coverage areas. By comparing these programs side by side, travelers can make informed choices about which option best fits their travel habits and preferences, ensuring a more seamless journey through airport security. Here’s everything you need to know about TSA PreCheck vs. NEXUS:

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What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. It aims to expedite the airport security screening process for eligible passengers, offering a more seamless and efficient experience at security checkpoints. Approved travelers enjoy access to dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which typically feature shorter lines and quicker processing times compared to standard security lanes.

TSA PreCheck participants can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and they do not need to remove laptops or compliant liquids from their carry-on bags during screening. This streamlined approach saves time and minimizes the inconvenience often associated with traditional security processes. TSA PreCheck is designed to enhance travel convenience for pre-approved, low-risk individuals, providing a smoother way to navigate security at participating airports across the United States.

To qualify for TSA PreCheck, travelers must submit an application, undergo a background check, and attend an in-person appointment for fingerprinting and verification. Once approved, successful applicants receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that can be used when booking flights to enjoy TSA PreCheck benefits.

Ideal for: Travelers seeking expedited security screenings at more than 200 US airports.

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How to Apply for TSA PreCheck

To be eligible for TSA PreCheck, travelers must be US citizens, US nationals, or lawful permanent residents. The application process requires completing an online application, scheduling an in-person appointment at an enrollment center for a background check and fingerprinting, and paying a non-refundable fee of up to $85. Here are the steps to apply for TSA PreCheck:

• Fill out the application: You can apply for TSA PreCheck online by submitting the necessary personal information.

• Go to an enrollment center: After your application is submitted, you must visit an enrollment location for a brief appointment. During this visit, you'll show your eligible ID, take a photo, provide fingerprints, and pay the $50 non-refundable application fee. Some credit cards offer statement credits when you use them to pay this fee (more on that later).

• Receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN): Once approved, you'll get a KTN to enter when booking flights. Your boarding pass will indicate PreCheck status, allowing you to use the expedited security lane.

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Credit cards that reimburse TSA PreCheck application fees

The TSA PreCheck application fee is up to $85, and membership lasts for five years. This fee is quite reasonable given the duration of membership, and several credit cards offer statement credits to cover this expense. These cards allow you to choose between a credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Since Global Entry includes PreCheck membership and is only $22 more, it’s worthwhile to invest in both for maximum benefits.

Here’s a compilation of credit cards that offer a credit every four years to help with TSA PreCheck application fees:

• Aeroplan® Credit Card

• American Airlines Credit Union Visa® Signature Credit Card

• Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card

• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card

• Capital One® Spark® Miles Card

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Capital One Venture X Business

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®

• Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard®

• Citi Prestige® Card

• Commerce Bank® World Elite Mastercard®

• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

• Diners Club® Carte Blanche® Corporate Card

• HSBC Elite World Elite Mastercard®

• HSBC Premier World Mastercard®

• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

• MasterCard® Black Card™

• MasterCard® Gold Card™

• Navy Federal's Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card

• PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card

• Provident World+ Travel®

• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

• Truist Business Travel Rewards Credit Card

• Truist Enjoy Beyond Credit Card

• Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card

• UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card

• United Club℠ Infinite Card

• United℠ Explorer Card

• United Quest℠ Card

• USAA Eagle Navigator™ Visa Signature® Credit Card

• U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

• U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

• U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Gold American Express® Card*

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What is NEXUS?

The NEXUS Trusted Traveler Program is a collaborative effort between the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Its goal is to speed up the border clearance process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers who regularly cross the US-Canada border. With NEXUS, members can utilize dedicated lanes at land crossings and kiosks at airports for quicker entry into either nation.

To apply, candidates must fill out an application, pay a $50 fee, undergo a background check, and attend an in-person interview where biometric data (such as photo and fingerprints) is collected. The application fee is waived for those under 18. Once accepted, membership lasts for five years, granting access to expedited lanes and kiosks when entering the US or Canada.

NEXUS members also enjoy access to Global Entry and TSA PreCheck lanes, significantly enhancing their travel experience. They can use Global Entry kiosks upon arriving at US airports and TSA PreCheck lines at security checkpoints. With the $50 application fee being lower than both Global Entry ($100) and PreCheck (up to $85), NEXUS is the optimal choice for frequent travelers to Canada, offering access to all three programs at a reduced cost. Note that Global Entry kiosks are available only at select Canadian preclearance locations.

Best for: Frequent travelers between the US and Canada.

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How to apply for NEXUS

The application process for NEXUS is quite simple. To qualify, applicants must not have a criminal history or customs violations. Eligible individuals include US citizens, lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian lawful permanent residents, and Mexican nationals who are part of the Viajero Confiable program. Once you verify your eligibility, follow these steps to apply for NEXUS:

• Create an online account: Go to the CBP's Trusted Traveler Programs website to set up an account.

• Complete the application: Log into your TTP account and fill out the NEXUS application form, providing personal details, employment history, travel history, and paying the $50 nonrefundable application fee. Some credit cards may offer statement credits for this fee (more on that later).

• Schedule an interview: After submitting your application and fee, if you pass the initial screening, you'll receive conditional approval. Then, arrange an interview at a NEXUS Enrollment Center.

• Complete the interview: Bring the necessary documents to your interview. You’ll be asked questions about your application and will provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs.

• Wait for approval: After the interview, your application will be processed further. If approved, your NEXUS card will be mailed to you. Membership lasts for five years.

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Credit cards that reimburse NEXUS application fees

Numerous travel credit cards provide up to $100 credit towards application fees for NEXUS, Global Entry, or TSA PreCheck. Some of these cards allow you to choose which application fees to cover. These credits are available for renewal every four years, perfectly timed for your renewals. Here’s a selection of credit cards that cover NEXUS application fees:

• Aeroplan® Credit Card

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card (Note: Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 ($120 starting 10/1/24))

• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card (Note: Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 ($120 starting 10/1/24))

• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

• United Club℠ Infinite Card

• United℠ Explorer Card

• United Quest℠ Card

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TSA PreCheck vs. NEXUS: A comparison

Both programs provide expedited screening, but it's essential to understand their distinct features and which one best fits your travel needs. Below is a detailed comparison that outlines the main differences and similarities between TSA PreCheck and NEXUS, helping travelers determine which program suits their specific requirements.

Cost

TSA PreCheck: Up to $85 for a five-year membership

NEXUS: $50 for a five-year period

Is expedited security screening available?

TSA PreCheck: Yes

NEXUS: Yes (access to TSA PreCheck lanes)

Is there expedited customs and border control processing?

TSA PreCheck: No

NEXUS: Yes

Is a background check necessary?

TSA PreCheck: Yes

NEXUS: Yes

Is fingerprinting required?

TSA PreCheck: Yes

NEXUS: Yes

Is an interview necessary?

TSA PreCheck: Yes

NEXUS: Yes

Is a valid passport required?

TSA PreCheck: No

NEXUS: Yes

Ideal for

TSA PreCheck: Ideal for travelers seeking faster security screenings at more than 200 airports in the US.

NEXUS: Perfect for those who regularly cross the border between the US and Canada.

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Alternative Trusted Traveler Programs

TSA PreCheck and NEXUS cater to distinct types of travelers. If you find that neither program meets your needs, there are other trusted traveler options that may be more suitable. Here’s an overview of these programs and the advantages they provide:

Global Entry

Global Entry is a trusted traveler program designed to streamline the customs and immigration process for low-risk, pre-approved travelers arriving in the US. It's especially advantageous for frequent international travelers, significantly cutting down on wait times at immigration and customs at select airports. Those approved for Global Entry are automatically granted TSA PreCheck access.

To be eligible for Global Entry, applicants must be US citizens, lawful permanent residents, or citizens of a few designated countries. A clean criminal record and no customs, immigration, or agricultural law violations are required.

The application process entails filling out an online form, paying a non-refundable fee of $100, and undergoing a background check. Once conditionally approved, applicants must attend an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, where biometric data is gathered and final eligibility is assessed.

Global Entry membership is valid for five years, after which renewal is possible. In addition to expedited entry benefits, members also enjoy TSA PreCheck perks for domestic travel, facilitating quicker and more convenient security screening at participating airports. Numerous credit cards, such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve, provide credits for the TSA PreCheck application fee.

Ideal for: Travelers, whether frequent or occasional, looking to expedite their customs and immigration processes during international trips.

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CLEAR

CLEAR is a trusted traveler program in the United States designed to streamline the security screening process at airports and select venues. By utilizing biometric technology, such as fingerprint and iris scans, CLEAR verifies identities and complements TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, enabling members to bypass ID checks at security checkpoints.

CLEAR is open to US citizens and permanent residents aged 18 and older who possess a valid government-issued ID. The program does not require background checks or complex eligibility requirements beyond age and necessary identification during registration.

The annual fee for a CLEAR membership is $199 for individuals, with families able to add extra members to an existing account for $99 each. Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as airline members and government workers. Additionally, various credit cards provide application fee credits for CLEAR membership, including the United℠ Explorer Card, The Platinum Card® from American Express, and the American Express® Green Card among others.

CLEAR is particularly advantageous for those who value time and seek a smooth airport experience. Business travelers or frequent flyers who often face tight schedules, as well as those navigating airports with long security lines, may find CLEAR especially helpful. It’s also a great option for travelers who lack TSA PreCheck or Global Entry but desire a quicker route through airport security.

Although CLEAR does not replace the need for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry for accessing expedited security lanes or international customs clearance, it enhances these programs by focusing on biometric identity verification, providing faster access through security checkpoints at participating airports and venues.

Ideal for: Frequent travelers who prioritize quick and efficient passage through airport security with CLEAR's advanced biometric identity verification.

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Which one should you choose?

Deciding between TSA PreCheck and NEXUS hinges on your travel habits and requirements. If most of your journeys are domestic flights within the U.S., TSA PreCheck may be the more appropriate choice, as it streamlines security screenings at participating U.S. airports for a quicker travel experience. Conversely, if you often travel between the U.S. and Canada, NEXUS could be the more advantageous option.

NEXUS not only grants TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic travel but also facilitates expedited processing at both U.S. and Canadian borders, enhancing the customs and immigration experience for land, air, and sea travel between the two nations. Evaluating your travel patterns and preferences is essential for identifying which program best suits your needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is TSA PreCheck necessary if I already have NEXUS?

With NEXUS, you automatically enjoy TSA PreCheck benefits when traveling domestically with participating airlines, so there’s no need to apply for TSA PreCheck separately.

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Should I choose NEXUS or Global Entry?

The decision between NEXUS and Global Entry primarily hinges on your travel habits. If you often travel between the US and Canada, NEXUS provides expedited processing at the borders of both countries. In contrast, Global Entry is better suited for more extensive international travel, offering quick customs clearance upon re-entering the United States from Canada and other countries.

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Is TSA PreCheck valid in Canada?

TSA PreCheck is not applicable in Canada, as it is managed by the US Transportation Security Administration.

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Does NEXUS provide Global Entry benefits?

Yes, NEXUS offers Global Entry advantages, allowing expedited processing at both US and Canadian borders.

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Is it possible to hold both TSA PreCheck and NEXUS?

Absolutely, you can possess both TSA PreCheck and NEXUS memberships at the same time.

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* Eligibility and benefits may vary by card. Terms, conditions, and restrictions apply. For further details, please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

Editorial note: The views presented here are solely those of the author and do not reflect the opinions of any bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, nor have they been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any of these organizations.