What is the US Waiver?

If you’re thinking of going to the United States for business or pleasure, your Canadian Criminal Record (CCR) could make you ineligible for entry, leading to denial at the border. If you’ve already been denied entry due to your CCR, it’s crucial to get a US Entry Waiver before trying again to avoid potential detention by US authorities.

A Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility application is necessary for those deemed inadmissible to the United States due to one or more reasons. This application is submitted to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before the planned travel date. Homeland Security reviews the application to ensure you pose no threat to US society. They also decide the validity period of your Waiver, which can be anywhere from 1 to 5 years. The strength of your application affects how long your Waiver lasts, potentially reducing the need for frequent renewals and saving on application fees.

Once your Waiver is approved, you are free to enter the US without worrying about being denied which was previously the case considering past Canadian Criminal Record.

Why to Obtain a US Waiver?

Various factors can prevent individuals from entering a country, with criminal convictions playing a significant role. Offenses like DUI, theft, fraud, or possession on one’s record could result in being denied entry at the US border due to an agreement between the Canadian and US governments.

To address this, a US Entry Waiver can be obtained for travel purposes. This document informs border officials that despite having a criminal record, the individual has been vetted by the Department of Homeland Security and granted access to the US. However, it’s important to note that this waiver isn’t permanent. Renewal is necessary as its validity eventually expires. Some waivers last for 4 years, while others are valid for only 1 year.

Some key reasons why securing a US Waiver is essential:

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Criminal Convictions

Individuals with certain criminal convictions on their record, such as felonies or crimes of moral turpitude, may be inadmissible to the US. A waiver can allow them to enter the country for specific purposes, such as tourism, business, or family visits.

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Overcoming Inadmissibility

Inadmissibility can result from a wide range of criminal offenses, including drug offenses, theft, fraud, and more. A waiver provides a way to overcome these inadmissibility issues.

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Deportation or Removal Orders

Individuals who have been previously deported or removed from the United States may require a waiver to re-enter the country legally.

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Immigration Violations

People who have violated US immigration laws, such as overstaying a visa or entering the US without proper documentation, may be inadmissible. A waiver can provide a pathway to lawful entry.

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Family Reunification

Individuals with inadmissibility issues may seek a waiver to reunite with family members who are US citizens or permanent residents.

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Employment Opportunities:

Professionals or skilled workers who are otherwise inadmissible may need a waiver to work in the United States legally.

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Education Pursuits

Students with past immigration or criminal issues may require a waiver to attend US educational institutions.

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Humanitarian Reasons

In some cases, individuals may seek a waiver for humanitarian reasons, such as medical treatment in the US or to care for a family member.

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Business and Economic Activities

Businesspeople and investors with inadmissibility issues may need a waiver to engage in business activities or investments in the United States.

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Rehabilitation and Second Chances

A US entry waiver acknowledges that individuals can rehabilitate themselves and deserve a second chance to lead lawful lives and contribute positively to society.

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Avoiding Legal Consequences

Attempting to enter the US without a waiver when one is required can lead to legal consequences, including arrest, detention, fines, and deportation.

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Travel for Various Purposes

A US Waiver enables individuals to travel to the United States for various purposes, including business, tourism, family visits, or education, expanding opportunities and experiences.

Difference between US Entry Waiver and Pardon

For Canadians with a conviction on their record, the process to erase it involves applying for a Canadian pardon. This action removes the conviction from an individual’s criminal record, ensuring that it doesn’t show up in a criminal record search. However, it’s essential to understand that this doesn’t automatically delete the past conviction from the Customs & Border Patrol’s (CBP) database.

When CBP flags your passport initially, they create a file on you, which they use for future reference. If you receive a pardon for a conviction after your information has been logged in the CBP database, the conviction will still be visible if a criminal background check is conducted on you at the border.

Service charges for the USA Entry Waiver

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$585 US Department of Home Security Fee

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Application Fee: Variable depending on the circumstances (Rates are subject to change at any time)

Acceptable payment methods

We accept all major debit, credit, master cards, and cash.