The FAST card is a valuable asset to any truck driver who crosses the US Canada
border. If you are unsure whether you qualify or have another question, read our
FAQs.
If you know about FAST Card and wish to apply
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What is a FAST card in trucking?
It is a document for truck drivers who travel frequently to the United States
that allows them to swiftly cross the border. You must hold a valid commercial
drivers licence in order to apply for one. Most US and Canadian truck companies
now require all drivers to hold a FAST card.
How do I get a FAST card?
There are two ways that you can get a card; you can go online to the government
enrolment system known as GOES and apply on your own or you can use Immigroup’s
FAST Card service and fill out a paper application form. The government database
asks lots of repetitive questions, some loaded with government jargon whereas
the Immigroup form is a simpler easy to fill version.
What questions are asked at the FAST card interview?
You will be interviewed by a border official from the US and one from Canada.
You will be asked to verify some of the data you entered onto your original
application form as well as being asked how often you intend to cross the border
and for what purposes. Many interviewing officers also ask questions relating to
whether you have a criminal record or history of immigration violations. After
the questions the Free and Secure Trade program is explained to you in detail
and you are given a booklet to take home. Then your biometric data is taken
(fingerprints and photo). You will be told if you are accepted onto the program
once the interview has ended.
How should I answer FAST card interview questions?
Truthfully! Some of the questions will be about information you have already
submitted on your application form, others will be about your reasons for
crossing the border. Some questions may be about a previous criminal record or
immigration violation. There is no point in lying – the interviewing officer
already knows most of the answers.
Where to get FAST card interview?
Interviews are held at a variety of
enrolment centres
across Canada and the US.
You can choose the one that best suits your location.
What happens when your FAST truck driver card expires?
You card is valid for 5 years. Just before it expires you must renew your card.
This process is the same as if you were applying for a new card and you will be
required to attend another interview. The reason renewal is not automatic is
because your circumstances may have changed e.g. you may have a criminal
conviction or your address and employment details may have changed.
When would a FAST card be revoked?
Your card would only be taken away from you if you were caught violating customs
and immigration rules and the Free and Secure Trade program rules e.g. bringing
prohibited goods into the country or exceeding the allowable limits. Your card
can also be revoked if you fail to report changes to your present status like a
change in your immigration status. Cards have also been cancelled when drivers
have been caught dropping off passengers at the border so that they (the driver)
could use the designated lane. If you are carrying passengers who are not FAST
card holders you must use the ordinary transit lanes,
Can a FAST card be used instead of a passport?
Yes, your card can be used in place of a passport but only when travelling by
land between Canada and the USA.
How long will it take for my FAST card to arrive?
FAST cards are sent out by mail from a central location around 10 days after
your interview.
What is the fee for a FAST card?
The government fee is USD $50. Immigroup charges a service fee for inputting
your data, scheduling your appointment and dealing with the government. The cost
is CDN $157.50.
Why was I denied my FAST card?
There are many reasons why you may be denied. If you have a criminal record you
will be denied even if it was committed so long ago. Also if you have violated
immigration or customs rules you will be denied. Some applicants receive a
denial because they did not fill out their application form accurately.
Immigroup can help with your FAST application. Our trained staff process truck
driver applications every day and are experienced in submitting the correct
information to the government. |
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