An Ontario woman is expressing frustration after paying nearly US$600 to a third-party company to apply for a NEXUS card, a trusted traveler program that expedites border crossings between Canada and the United States.
Consumer Alert from Pat Foran
Pat Foran, a consumer affairs journalist, highlighted the case in a recent report, warning Canadians to be cautious when seeking assistance with NEXUS applications. The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, paid the hefty fee to a private firm that promised to streamline the application process. However, she later discovered that the official application fee through the Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection is only US$50.
The incident serves as a reminder for travelers to verify official channels and fees before engaging third-party services. The NEXUS program offers expedited processing at airports, land borders, and marine ports, making it a popular choice for frequent cross-border travelers.
How to Avoid Similar Scams
- Always apply directly through the official NEXUS website.
- Be wary of companies that guarantee faster processing or approval.
- Check for accreditation and reviews before paying any third party.
For more consumer protection tips, visit the Competition Bureau Canada's website.
