Quick Summary
- Families can apply for NEXUS Cards together, making cross-border travel easier and faster.
- Children under 18 can apply for free when included in a family application.
- One interview per applicant is required, but families can schedule interviews together.
- Both parents must provide consent for children under 18.
- Proper preparation ensures a smooth and hassle-free application process.
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Introduction
For families that frequently travel between the U.S. and Canada, a NEXUS Card is the best way to avoid long border wait times. Applying as a family ensures that everyone benefits from expedited processing, whether driving or flying.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the NEXUS Card application for families, including requirements, documents, fees, and interview details.
For an overview of the full application process, check out our Complete Guide to the NEXUS Card Application Process.
Who Can Apply for a NEXUS Card as a Family?
A family application is ideal for parents and children who frequently cross the border together. If you’re specifically applying for a child’s NEXUS Card, visit our NEXUS Card Application for Children guide for more details. A family application is ideal for parents and children who frequently cross the border together.
A family application is ideal for parents and children who frequently cross the border together.
| Family Member | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Parents/Guardians | Must meet all NEXUS eligibility criteria |
| Children Under 18 | Can apply for free with parental consent |
| Spouses | Must submit separate applications but can apply together |
| Extended Family | Grandparents, aunts, uncles need individual applications |
Children must be accompanied by at least one parent/guardian in their application.
Required Documents for Family NEXUS Applications
Each applicant—adults and children—must provide identification and proof of eligibility.
| Document Type | Required for Adults | Required for Children |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Passport | ✅ Required | ✅ Required |
| Proof of Residency | ✅ Required (Driver’s License, Utility Bill) | ✅ Parent’s proof of residency |
| Birth Certificate | ❌ Not required | ✅ Required for minors |
| Parental Consent Form | ❌ Not required | ✅ Required for children under 18 |
Important: Both parents/legal guardians must provide written consent for a child’s application unless one has sole custody.
For more details on required documents, visit our NEXUS Card Application Requirements.
How to Apply for a NEXUS Card as a Family
The family NEXUS application process follows these steps:
Important Note for Divorced or Separated Parents
- If applying for a child under 18, ensure both parents have signed the parental consent form.
- If one parent is absent, a notarized consent letter and a copy of their identification may be required.
- Ensure all custody documents are prepared before attending the interview.
The family NEXUS application process follows these steps:
1. Submit Applications for Each Family Member
- Applications are completed through the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP).
- Each family member must submit a separate application.
- Children under 18 do not need to pay the application fee.
2. Pay the NEXUS Application Fee
- $120 USD per adult (children are free).
- Fees must be paid in U.S. dollars, even for Canadian applicants.
- Payments are non-refundable.
3. Wait for Conditional Approval
- Background checks are conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
- Processing time varies from 4 to 12 weeks.
4. Schedule a Family Interview
- All family members must attend an interview at a NEXUS Enrollment Center.
- Families can schedule interviews together for convenience.
- Both parents must attend if applying for a child.
5. Complete the NEXUS Interview
- Bring all required documents for each family member.
- Expect identity verification, fingerprinting, and travel history questions.
- Approval is typically granted at the interview or shortly after.
6. Receive and Activate NEXUS Cards
- Cards arrive by mail within 7-10 business days.
- Each family member must activate their card online before use.
Family NEXUS Interview Tips
Follow these best practices to ensure a smooth interview process:
✅ Schedule together – Booking the entire family for the same appointment saves time. ✅ Bring all documents – Missing paperwork will delay approval. ✅ Prepare children – Kids may be asked simple questions about travel. ✅ Be patient – Family interviews can take longer than individual ones. ✅ Answer honestly – Officers compare answers with application details.
For more on interview preparation, visit NEXUS Card Application Interview Tips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can my whole family use the NEXUS lane if only I have a NEXUS Card?
No. All family members must have their own NEXUS Card to use dedicated lanes.
2. Do both parents have to attend the child’s NEXUS interview?
Yes. If both parents are listed on the application, both must attend unless one has sole custody.
3. How long does it take for a family to get NEXUS Cards?
Processing time varies but typically takes 3 to 6 months, including interview scheduling.
4. Do children need to renew their NEXUS Card?
Yes, but since children under 18 apply for free, they must renew once they reach adulthood.
5. Can a family apply for NEXUS at the same time?
Yes! Submitting all applications together does not guarantee approval at the same time, but it allows for family interviews.
Apply for Your Family’s NEXUS Card Today
| Option 1: Do It Yourself | Option 2: Let Us Handle It |
|---|---|
| ✅ Follow the government steps | ✅ We handle all paperwork |
| ✅ Pay only the gov fee ($120) | ✅ We handle interview booking |
| ❌ No troubleshooting support | ✅ We solve issues for you |
| ❌ Can take months of back-and-forth | ✅ Hassle-free & time-saving |
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