Full Breakdown
NEXUS and Global Entry Programs Suspended Amid U.S. Government Shutdown
2/23/2026, 6:17:08 AM
Overview of the Situation
Several Canadian airports, including Vancouver International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Calgary International Airport, and Ottawa International Airport, have announced the suspension of NEXUS and Global Entry pre-clearance programs for U.S.-bound flights. This disruption is attributed to the ongoing partial government shutdown in the United States, which began on February 14, 2026, due to a failure to reach a funding agreement between Democrats and the White House.
Impact on Travelers
The suspension of these programs significantly affects travelers seeking expedited processing through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The NEXUS program is designed to facilitate quicker border crossings for pre-approved, low-risk travelers between Canada and the U.S. Similarly, Global Entry allows U.S. travelers to use expedited kiosks when entering the United States from abroad. Experts estimate that Global Entry can reduce customs wait times from an average of 30 to 90 minutes down to approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
Airports have advised travelers to expect longer wait times and have recommended using the Mobile Passport Control app to help expedite processing. For instance, Calgary International Airport has urged passengers to allow extra time for security checks, while Vancouver International Airport explicitly stated that the suspension is due to the U.S. government shutdown.
Official Statements & Responses
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirmed that the Global Entry program would remain suspended for the duration of the government shutdown, citing a lack of federal funding that affects the management of its services. In a statement, Vancouver International Airport noted, “This change may impact processing times for travelers departing for the U.S.”
Toronto Pearson International Airport echoed similar sentiments, advising travelers to utilize the Mobile Passport Control app to assist with U.S. Customs processing.
Criticism & Opposition
While the shutdown has led to significant disruptions, there has been criticism regarding the handling of the situation. Some travelers have expressed frustration over the lack of clarity and communication from airport authorities and U.S. Customs and Border Protection regarding the specifics of the shutdown's impact on travel.
Calgary International Airport, when contacted for further information, stated that the NEXUS program is managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and could not provide additional details, highlighting a gap in communication that has left travelers uncertain.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a lack of specific government data regarding the exact impact of the suspension on traveler wait times and the number of affected passengers. While estimates suggest significant delays, the absence of concrete statistics leaves travelers without a clear understanding of the situation.
What's Next
As the partial U.S. government shutdown continues, travelers should remain informed about updates from their respective airports and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Airports have indicated they will monitor the situation and provide further updates as they become available.
