Nexus Vs Global Entry - Which is right for me?

When it comes to things that are universally hated among all travelers, regardless of their age or gender, we have to say that waiting in long lines at airports ranks near the very top. If only there was a simple way in which you could speed this up, it would be a lifesaver, right?

Luckily for you, there is not one, but two completely viable options intended for just such purposes, and today, we decided to take a look at them, helping you pick the one that works for you the best. Here is what makes each platform special and some differences among them that might help you sway one way or the other.

Let’s introduce you to Nexus

In case you’ve never heard about this program before, allow us to quickly introduce you to some of its main features. Nexus is designed to accommodate frequent travelers who are pre-approved and do not belong to any of the high-risk groups to pass the borders without the unnecessary waste of time.

It’s especially useful to those who oftentimes cross the border between The United States and Canada, offering special lanes for those crossing the borders by land, and self-serving kiosks for others who are fonder of air travel.

And a few words about Global Entry

Similar to the above-mentioned option, Global Entry is a platform designed for frequent travelers, only this one is based in the United States. Global Entry lasts for five years, during which you’ll get a chance to enjoy all of its benefits.

In order to join Global Entry, you will have to provide a scanned passport, as well as fingerprints and fill out some forms. However, once you do this, you’ll obtain the right to go through the common security checks a lot quicker, without the need to remove your belt buckle or take the laptop out of your carry-on bag.

Which option is more affordable?

While this shouldn’t be the only determining factor between the two, it’s still the first question most people are going to ask, so let’s get it out of the way immediately. Global Entry will set you back $100, while Nexus costs exactly half of that, at $50.

What’s also great about Nexus is that they charge nothing for children under the age of 18, making it a more family-friendly option. On the other hand, Global Entry does not even offer discounts for kids. So, while solo travelers might not feel as much of a difference, families with two or three children will surely notice it instantly.

Which program has more enrolment centers?

When it comes to the number of available offices for each program, we could say that Global Entry has a bit of an edge in The United States, while Nexus holds the advantage in Canada. Another difficulty for American travelers who want to join Nexus is that their offices are based near the Canadian border, and people from the southern areas might not find it as very practical.

Which option covers more countries?

This is a seemingly simple question, but depending on the personal preferences of each traveler, the answer might be different. On the surface, it seems that Global Entry covers more countries, making it easier to return to The United States. With that in mind, digital nomads will find this option more appealing.

Still, those who have family members in Canada and The U.S. will appreciate the number of options that Nexus presents, regardless of the means of transport. As it happens most of the time in life, finding the correct answer is up to you.

How long does the membership last?

In both cases, the membership lasts for 5 years. That gives you plenty of time to enjoy all of the benefits both of these programs offer. Whichever option you decide to choose, know that your traveling will become a more relaxing experience, and at the end of the day, that’s all that matters.