A Trusted Traveller Program Violation Card is a notification issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) when a member of a Trusted Traveller Program (like Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or TSA PreCheck) is found to have violated the program’s terms and conditions. This notice typically outlines the specific violation and the consequences, which can include suspension or revocation of membership.
Terms & Conditions of NEXUS Membership
Travellers receiving their NEXUS Membership are usually cautioned to obey the conditions of the Membership, although one wonders how many actually do!
We are no strangers to helping individuals who find themselves subject to a Canada Border Services Agency (“CBSA”) seizure and all the consequences that come with that – including NEXUS seizures and revocation. But when it comes to bringing plant or animals (or their derivatives – e.g., food) into Canada, travellers can inadvertently commit a violation which is very punitive and difficult to defend.
Specifically, the Agriculture and Agri-Food Administrative Monetary Penalties Act(“AAAMPA”) imposes violations (“AAAMPs”) which leave no room for reasonableness or diligence. Even with the hurdles involved, however, appealing an AAAMP might be worthwhile (and successful) – particularly given that it can lead to continual secondary screening and a loss of NEXUS eligibility!