How to Book a NEXUS Appointment at a Port of Entry

What NEXUS appointments are and where to find them

A NEXUS appointment is a dedicated time slot to enroll in or renew the NEXUS trusted traveler program at a U.S. port of entry. Unlike the online enrollment centers where you can submit your application, a port appointment is where you meet a CBP officer in person to complete your background check, provide biometrics, and receive your NEXUS card on the spot or by mail.

You book these appointments through the CBP Border Wait Times website (bwt.cbp.dhs.gov), which shows real-time availability at ports near you. The site lists which ports offer NEXUS enrollment appointments and how far out you can book — typically 30 to 60 days in advance, though this varies by location.

Not every port offers NEXUS appointments. Busier ports like Seattle-Tacoma, Detroit, and Buffalo have regular slots. Smaller ports may offer them only on certain days or not at all. If your nearest port does not have appointments available, you may need to travel to one that does, or look into the online enrollment option if you have already submitted your application elsewhere.

Key Takeaways

• NEXUS appointments are booked through the CBP Border Wait Times website, where you can see real-time availability at ports near you.
• You will need your passport, proof of citizenship, and a valid photo ID to complete your appointment, plus any documents related to your background.
• Appointments typically take 15 to 30 minutes and result in your NEXUS card being issued immediately or mailed within two weeks.
• If your nearest port has no available slots, you can check ports within a reasonable distance or ask about alternative enrollment methods when you call the port directly.
• Canceling or rescheduling must be done through the same CBP website at least 24 hours before your appointment time.

How to search for and book your appointment slot

Go to bwt.cbp.dhs.gov and select "NEXUS" from the program dropdown. Enter your home state or the state where you want to enroll, and the site will show you all ports in that region with open appointment slots. Each port displays available dates and times in a calendar view.

Click on a date and time that works for you. You will be asked to enter your name, date of birth, email address, and phone number. The system will send you a confirmation email with your appointment details, a confirmation number, and instructions on what to bring. Save this confirmation number — you will need it to check in at the port.

If you do not see any open slots at your preferred port, check nearby ports. Many people find availability 50 to 100 miles away when their local option is booked solid. You can also call the port's enrollment office directly to ask if they have cancellations or can add you to a waitlist.

Documents and information you need to bring

Bring your valid passport or passport card. This is required and non-negotiable. You will also need proof of citizenship — a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or citizenship document — and a valid photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID, or military ID.

If you have a criminal history, traffic violations, or immigration issues, bring any relevant court documents, disposition letters, or explanatory statements. The CBP officer will review your background during the appointment, and having documentation ready speeds up the process. If you are unsure whether something needs to be disclosed, call the port ahead of time and ask.

Bring your confirmation number and confirmation email. Some ports ask you to arrive 15 minutes early, so check your confirmation for specific instructions. Do not bring weapons, large bags, or anything prohibited at the port — you will not be allowed past security.

What happens during your NEXUS appointment

You will check in at the enrollment office with your confirmation number and ID. A CBP officer will review your application (whether you submitted it online beforehand or fill it out on site), verify your documents, and ask questions about your background, travel history, and ties to the United States and Canada.

The officer will take your photograph and fingerprints for the background check. This process takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how straightforward your case is. If everything checks out, you will receive your NEXUS card immediately in some cases, or it will be mailed to you within two weeks. You will also receive a temporary NEXUS number you can use right away for expedited processing at the border.

If the officer has concerns about your background or application, they may ask for additional information or schedule a follow-up. This does not mean you are denied — it means they need more time to verify something. They will tell you what to do next before you leave.

Rescheduling or canceling your appointment

If you need to change your appointment, go back to bwt.cbp.dhs.gov, find your confirmation number, and select a new date and time. You must cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment. If you cancel within 24 hours or do not show up, you may lose your slot and have to wait for the next available opening.

If you cannot find your confirmation number online, call the port where you booked your appointment. They can look it up by your name and date of birth and help you reschedule or cancel. Keep your confirmation email for reference.

What to do if no appointments are available near you

Check ports within 50 to 100 miles of your home. Many people travel to a neighboring state or region to find an open slot. The CBP website shows all ports in your state and surrounding states, so you can compare availability across a wider area.

If you still cannot find an appointment, call the enrollment office at your preferred port directly. Ask if they have a waitlist, cancellation openings, or if they know of other ports with faster availability. Some ports can also tell you when they expect new slots to open.

Another option is to check whether you can complete your NEXUS enrollment online through an approved enrollment center and then schedule your port appointment for the final step. Some applicants do their initial paperwork at a trusted traveler enrollment center and then book a shorter port appointment just for biometrics and card pickup.

Common reasons appointments get delayed or denied

The most common reason for delay is incomplete or missing documents. Bring everything listed in your confirmation email. If you have any criminal history, traffic violations, or immigration issues, disclose them upfront — the officer will find out anyway, and honesty works in your favor.

Appointments can also be delayed if the port is understaffed or if there is a surge in border traffic. This is beyond your control. If your appointment is canceled by CBP, you will receive an email notification and can rebook through the website.

Denial is rare for NEXUS, but it can happen if you have serious criminal convictions, outstanding warrants, or immigration violations. If you are denied, you will receive a written explanation and information on how to appeal or reapply after a certain period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a NEXUS appointment if I have not submitted an online application yet?

Yes. You can fill out your NEXUS application on site at your port appointment. However, submitting it online beforehand speeds up the process. If you have time before your appointment, complete the online form through the NEXUS program website so the officer has your information ready.

What if I miss my appointment?

If you do not show up, your appointment slot is forfeited and you will have to book a new one through the CBP website. There is no penalty, but you lose your place in the queue. Reschedule as soon as possible if something comes up.

How long does it take to get my NEXUS card after my appointment?

You may receive your card immediately at the appointment, or it will be mailed within two weeks. Either way, you get a temporary NEXUS number on the spot that you can use for expedited processing at the border right away.

Do I need an appointment if I am renewing my NEXUS card?

Yes. Renewals also require an in-person appointment at a port of entry. Book your renewal appointment through the same CBP website using the NEXUS program option. Bring your expiring card along with your other documents.

What if I live far from any port that offers NEXUS appointments?

Call the nearest port's enrollment office and ask about alternatives. Some ports can refer you to trusted traveler enrollment centers in your area, or they may be able to schedule you for a future date when they have availability. You may also be able to complete part of the process online and finish at a port that is more convenient for you.