For snowbirds who drive across the Canada–US border each fall and spring, the NEXUS card is one of the best investments you can make — saving hours of border wait time over a season, for just $50 every 5 years.
NEXUS at a Glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | $50 CAD per person, every 5 years |
| Application | Online at ttp.cbp.dhs.gov + in-person interview |
| Processing time | 2–6 months for interview appointment |
| Eligibility | Canadian and US citizens and permanent residents |
Why NEXUS Is Worth It for Snowbirds
A snowbird driving from Ontario to Florida (or BC to Arizona) crosses the border twice per year — once in November and once in April. During these crossings:
- Standard lanes at major border crossings can back up 1–3 hours during peak season
- NEXUS lanes typically process in 2–10 minutes
Over a 10-year period (2 NEXUS card cycles), that could mean saving 20–40+ hours of border wait time — for a total cost of $100. The math is straightforward.
Which Credit Cards Reimburse the $50 NEXUS Fee?
| Card | Annual Fee | NEXUS Credit | Net NEXUS Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite | $139 | $100 every 4 years | $0 (credit covers it) |
| Amex Platinum Card | $799 | $100 every 4 years | $0 |
| Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card | $599 | $100 every 4 years | $0 |
| TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege | $599 | $100 every 4 years | $0 |
For snowbirds: The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite ($139/year) is the most accessible card with NEXUS reimbursement. If you hold this card anyway for Aeroplan earning, your NEXUS card is effectively free.
To claim the reimbursement: Pay your NEXUS application fee using your eligible credit card. The reimbursement typically posts as a statement credit within 1–2 billing cycles automatically.
NEXUS for Couples
Many snowbird couples travel together. With a $100 credit on some cards:
- 2 NEXUS cards at $50 each = $100 total
- Credit fully covers both applications
If you have separate eligible credit cards, you can each claim the credit on your own card — covering 2 applicants at $0 net cost.
How to Apply for NEXUS
- Visit ttp.cbp.dhs.gov to create a Trusted Traveller Programs account
- Complete the application (20–30 minutes; you’ll need passport details and travel history)
- Pay the $50 CAD fee with your NEXUS-reimbursing credit card
- Receive conditional approval (typically within 1–4 weeks)
- Schedule an in-person interview at a NEXUS enrolment centre
- Attend the interview (bring passport and proof of citizenship/residency)
- NEXUS card mailed within 3–4 weeks
Book your appointment early — interview slots at popular border crossings (Peace Arch, Fort Erie, Windsor, Niagara Falls) fill up 3–12 months in advance during peak application seasons.
Where Snowbirds Can Have NEXUS Interviews
If you’re already in the US when you apply, some NEXUS interviews can be conducted at US CBP facilities. Check ttp.cbp.dhs.gov for available interview locations — both Canadian and US sites are available.
Related Articles
- What Is NEXUS?
- Which Cards Reimburse the NEXUS Fee?
- Best No-FX Cards for Snowbirds
- What Is a Canadian Snowbird?
- Snowbirds Guide Hub
NEXUS fee and processing details current as of June 2026. Verify at cbsa-asfc.gc.ca and ttp.cbp.dhs.gov. See our Advertiser Disclosure.