Why Updating Your NEXUS Card Matters
If you hold a NEXUS card and later obtain a U.S. work visa—such as a TN, L-1, E, or H-1B visa—you must update your NEXUS record with your new status. Failing to do so can cause problems when you enter the U.S. using NEXUS. If your NEXUS record still shows you as a visitor (B-1/B-2 status), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will automatically admit you under that status—even if you have a valid work visa. This could mean you’re not legally authorized to work, even though you have an approved work visa.
What Happens If You Don’t Update Your NEXUS Card?
If you travel to the U.S. using NEXUS without updating your work visa status, you may face these issues:
- Automatic Admission as a Visitor – Your work visa won’t be recognized, and you’ll be admitted as a visitor instead.
- Work Authorization Problems – If you enter the U.S. as a visitor, you cannot legally work, even if you have a TN, L-1, E, or H-1B visa.
- Possible Violations – If you work while being in visitor status, you could violate U.S. immigration laws, which might affect future travel or visa renewals.
How to Update Your NEXUS Card
To avoid these problems, update your NEXUS record with your new work visa information as soon as possible. Here’s how:
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Visit a NEXUS Enrollment Center
- You may need to schedule an appointment at a NEXUS Enrollment Center to update your status.
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Bring Your Passport and Work Visa
- Provide your valid passport and the visa approval documents showing your new status.
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Inform CBP About Your Status Change
- Make sure your NEXUS profile reflects your work visa, so CBP officers can admit you correctly when you travel.
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Check Your I-94 Record After Entry
- After entering the U.S., verify your I-94 record online to confirm you were admitted in the correct work visa category.
Key Takeaway
If you have a NEXUS card and a U.S. work visa, always update your NEXUS record before traveling. This ensures you are admitted under the correct status and can legally work in the U.S.
Consult an immigration attorney if you have concerns about your status.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
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If you have any questions regarding a U.S. Immigration matter, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people work and live in the United States. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
