U.S. reopening FAST

U.S. reopening FAST applications November 29th

Those looking to get their FAST or NEXUS passes are in for some good news. Free and Secure Trade centers will reopen in the United States on November 29th. So far, Canada’s remain closed with no update on a future opening date.

As per the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency, conditionally approved applicants can now book interview appointments which will start with the November 29 opening date.

All applicants must meet the new entry requirements for entering the U.S., which means you will have to show proof of vaccination at all land border entry ports and ferry terminals.

**** Note: This interview may not be considered essential travel- therefore you will have to abide by all the rules imposed for non-essential travelers****

To book your interview go to https://ttp.dhs.gov/

What vaccines are accepted by the United States?

The CDC has released a list of accepted COVID-19 vaccines. Listed on their site are the following:

Single dose:

  • Janssen/J&J

Two dose series:

  • Pfizer-BioNTech
  • Moderna
  • AstraZeneca
  • Covaxin
  • Covishield
  • BIBP/Sinopharm
  • Sinovac

What is accepted as proof of vaccination?

The CDC has released what documents they will accept as proof of vaccination at this time.

-CDC.gov

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) services have warned that travellers should prepare for longer than usual wait times when crossing the border.

Existing FAST members

Existing members are encouraged to renew their membership prior to the expiry date to continue membership privileges but can wait on the interview process while the backlog of new members are processed.

What is FAST?

FAST is a joint program between Canada and the United States to enhance border security, while making it easier and quicker for cross-border commercial shipments to cross into each others’ countries.

If you are interested in applying for a five-year FAST membership the fee is $50. Applicants must pass a background check and interview with a CBP officer. You can check the application process out here.