Why are some non-NEXUS travellers sent through the NEXUS line at Pearson?

I've connected through Toronto Pearson International Airport to the US twice this year, and both times I was directed to the NEXUS lines, even though I'm not a card holder.

I scanned my passport as usual, showed the receipt to the agent before customs, and they pointed myself and a handful of other travelers to the NEXUS line. After we went through customs, the agent before security somehow knew to send us to the Nexus security line, as well. I'm guessing it was because the customs officer stamped our boarding passes.

Does anyone know why the agents do this, or what the criteria for it is?

Best Answer

Is it possible your connecting flight's boarding time was near? I've been sent to priority customs/passport/security lines when I had a tight connection - both airlines and airports have strong motivations to ensure everyone boards on time because missing passengers can cause very costly delays.

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Can I use NEXUS at Pearson?

At Pearson, NEXUS holders have a separate, dedicated line at security and at US customs. At US Customs, Nexus holders first visit a kiosk, where their travel identification is verified and an iris scan verifies your identity. The kiosk will print out a receipt, which will then speed you through US Customs.

What is the difference between NEXUS and Global Entry?

Global Entry allows expedited entry into the United States for international travelers and includes TSA PreCheck. NEXUS provides dedicated lanes at select border crossings between the U.S. and Canada while also offering full TSA PreCheck and Global Entry benefits when flying.

Is NEXUS open at Toronto Pearson?

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Do I have to go through customs for a connecting flight in Toronto?

Connecting flights between Canada and the United States If you are travelling from a Canadian destination and connecting through Toronto to the U.S. you will not need to collect your baggage, but you will have to clear security and U.S. Customs before boarding your flight.

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Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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