Well, the cat’s out of the bag! Canada’s Ministry of Transport has just launched the New Verified Traveller Program at Canada Airports, scheduled to come into effect on June 21, 2023. This program aims to put the kibosh on those pesky security checkpoint lines and create a more fluid, efficient travel experience for everyone involved.
The New Verified Traveller Program At Canada Airports: Unveiling the Perks
The Verified Traveller program isn’t just about making you feel like you’re walking on cloud nine with reduced wait times. Oh no, it’s more than that!
What’s Cooking?
This innovative program allows eligible travellers to keep their laptops, large electronic devices, and compatible liquids and gels in their carry-on bags during security checks. Moreover, you can keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. Talk about a hassle-free experience!
Who is Eligible for the new Verified Traveller program?
So, who are the lucky ducks? The eligibility extends to:
- NEXUS and Global Entry Members
- Canadian Armed Forces and US military, including reservists, with valid ID
- Canadian aircrew and airport workers with Restricted Area Identification Cards
- International aircrew (in uniform) with valid airline ID
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers, Canadian police officers and constables with a badge and proper photo identification issued by their respective organizations
Benefits of the New Verified Traveller Program
The Verified Traveller Program is like a three-tiered chocolate cake, with each layer promising a delicious benefit.
Verified Traveller Benefits
On the domestic front, travellers are permitted to:
- Keep allowable liquids, aerosols, and gels in your carry-on
- Leave laptops and devices in your carry-on
- Keep on shoes, belts, light jackets, and headwear
- Keep small objects in your pockets
- Co-travellers must be 17 years old or younger and 75 years old or older
This set of benefits is available at selected airports, including Calgary International Airport, Edmonton International Airport, and Montréal-Trudeau International Airport.
Verified Traveller Transborder (U.S. Flights) Benefits
When flying to the U.S, travellers can:
- Keep allowable liquids, aerosols, and gels in your carry-on
- Keep on your shoes, belts, light jackets, and hats
- Put minuscule objects in your pockets
- Have travel companions accompany you
This set of benefits can be availed at select airports including Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport.
Verified Traveller Front-of-the-line Benefits
For those with front-of-the-line benefits, they can enjoy:
- Service at the Front-of-the-line
- The ability for travel companions to accompany you
These benefits are available at select airports, including Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, Calgary International Airport, and Edmonton International Airport.
Joining the NEXUS program
Interested in the NEXUS program? Here’s what you need to know.
Eligibility
To be eligible, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or a national of Mexico.
How To Apply
Applying for the NEXUS program is as easy as pie! Simply:
- Visit the Trusted Travelers Programs (TTP) website
- Apply and complete the registration process
- Pay the non-refundable USD 50 processing fee.
- Fulfill the qualifying requirements
- Be admissible to both Canada and the United States; and
- Pass both countries’ risk assessments
Note that each family member must submit a distinct application to join the NEXUS program if applying together. Applicants under the age of 18 are exempt from paying the processing fees and must have their parents or legal guardians complete the application process.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, folks – everything you need to know about the New Verified Traveller Program at Canada airports! This program is a game-changer, providing eligible travellers with a streamlined, stress-free travel experience. So why wait? Apply today and enjoy the benefits of hassle-free air travel!