If you are a Canadian with a criminal record you can be denied entry at the US Border. Even if you have a conditional or absolute discharge or a criminal charge that has been withdrawn, acquitted, stayed or dismissed, you can still be denied entry to the US.
If you have been denied entry, then you need a US Entry Waiver, also known as a I-194 to re-enter the US.
Many people who call us require assistance in applying for the US Entry Waiver because it is a complicated and lengthy process.
Unfortunately, the process does not happen overnight and many people are disappointed that they cannot return to the US immediately after being denied entry.
The length of time it takes to approve the US Entry Waiver varies depending on the file. Ultimately the DHS (Department of Homeland Security) makes the decision to approve it but the application must be in perfect order otherwise it will be rejected by them.
We have been helping people obtain US Entry Waivers or I-194’s for the past 15 years so we are very familiar with exactly what the Americans require for approval.
If you have not been denied entry to the US but have a Canadian criminal record, it may be possible that you do not need a US Entry Waiver as long as you get a Canada Pardon before entering. Every case is different.
If you have any questions regarding this topic or about Pardons and US Entry Waivers email us at [email protected] or call 1-877-929-6011.