The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will launch a new Verified Traveller program that offers a faster and more efficient screening experience for eligible travellers at select airports across Canada. The new Verified Traveller program will replace the current Trusted Traveller program and launch between June 7- 21, 2023. Eligible Verified Travellers will benefit at security screening checkpoints by faster NEXUS and trusted traveller lines when eligible travellers are permitted to keep laptops, large electronics and compliant liquids and gels in their carry-on, and keep their shoes, belt and light jacket on.
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Canada's Verified Traveller Program
New dedicated Verified Traveller screening lines will be available at the following domestic and international airports:
- Vancouver International Airport
- Edmonton International Airport
- Calgary International Airport
- Winnipeg International Airport
- Toronto-Pearson International Airport T1 and T3
- Montreal-Trudeau International Airport
"Canada's Verified Traveller program will expedite travel, especially during the busy travel season," says Calgary immigration lawyer Evelyn Ackah.
Travellers who already have NEXUS and trusted-traveller cards are already eligible for the revamped program, said Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra.Travellers eligible to use the Verified Traveller lanes include:
- Members of NEXUS and Global Entry;
- Active members of the 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; and
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers, Canadian police officers and constables with a badge and proper photo identification issued by their respective organizations.
Children who are 17 years of age and younger, and adults who are 75 years of age and older, can accompany verified travellers through security if they are on the same reservation.
“CATSA plays a crucial role in keeping our air sector safe. As the sector entered recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw how important it was to have a smooth and efficient security screening regime for air passengers. This new Verified Traveller program builds on our $1.8 billion investment for CATSA in Budget 2023, and is great news as we enter another busy travel season to help combat congestion at our airports. It will help improve the security screening process for eligible travellers at select airports across Canada, while still ensuring we meet the highest standards of security and safety for air passengers.”
The Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport
Reduced Wait Times While Maintaining Security
CATSA promised the new Verified Traveller program will improve its level of service while reducing screening wait times, and strengthening security measures at airports. Canada has budgeted $1.8 billion over five years, starting in 2023-24, to CATSA to improve services.
Post pandemic travel in Canada has resulted in long wait times at airports.
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Do You Need Assistance With NEXUS for Cross Border Business Travel?
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