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FAQ
Why do I need a US Entry Waiver?
A US Entry waiver is required of all individuals whom are ineligible to enter the United States due to a criminal record or past overstay of your eligible time in the US.
Does the US know about my criminal record?
The RCMP share information with the US. Upon entering your name and date of birth into the system, the RCMP will provide the information pertaining to your criminal record to the US. This information will be downloaded into their system and this file the US maintains will never be erased.
How long does it take to get a US Entry Waiver?
US Entry waiver file process times can take anywhere from 3-12 months, depending on the circumstances and amount/type of documentation that must be collected. Once the application has been submitted to the US, the wait time could take up to 180 business days or more depending on the circumstances.
How much is it to get a US Entry Waiver?
The US requires a fee of $585 US for all applications. Preparation costs vary based on the type of service. Please call 1-855-7-WAIVER for a no obligation quote. Payment plans are available upon request.
Can my US Entry Waiver application be denied?
The US officials may deny your application if it is not prepared properly or is missing pertinent information. It may also be denied if your application does not show significant rehabilitation as required or contains information that is misleading, confusing, or contradictory. By working with Canada Pardon and US Waiver Experts, we are providing over ten years of experience and a dedicated team to work with you and ensure that your application contains all the key components. We have an over 90% success rate and are available to discuss your file in person, over the phone or through email to ensure it is as complete as possible.
Can I fly to a foreign country via the US without a US Entry Waiver?
You must clear through US immigration anytime you enter, even if your purpose is only to catch a connecting flight elsewhere. Your record will likely be revealed and you will likely be denied. Your plane ticket will be marked VOID and you will be unable to continue your travels.
I've already travelled to the US for many years without a US Entry waiver, why do I need one now?
Ever since the tragic terrorist attacks of 9/11/2001, there have been increased precautions at the border. Canada and the US continue to share more and more information. US officials will be checking passports and entering name and date of birth information in to their system for those attempting to enter their country. The RCMP will share personal information with the US, increasing the likelihood of being denied entry for those with a criminal record.
I've already been denied entry into the US but I need to go and I do not have a US Entry Waiver. What could happen?
Upon the first time you are denied at the border, the US creates a file for you with all the pertinent information. Any attempts to enter the country after this without a US waiver will not be taken lightly. US officials can confiscate the vehicle you are travelling in, even if it is not yours or you are not the driver. If you are travelling by bus, you will be removed and sent back to Canada. If you are travelling by airplane, you will not be permitted to continue and your ticket will be marked VOID. A VOID ticket is not eligible for trip cancellation insurance. US officials have the right to handcuff and detain you and those you are travelling with.
Does a US Entry Waiver last forever?
US Entry Waivers are typically issued for 1, 3, or 5 years and will have to be renewed.
What if I need to go to the US for a family emergency and I do not have my US Entry Waiver yet?
You may apply for an Advance Parole while you await the decision of your US Entry Waiver application. These are only granted however for emergency, compassionate, or humanitarian circumstances and are at the discretion of the US officials. We can prepare an advance parole application for you.
When can I apply for a US Entry Waiver?
You may apply at anytime. There is no waiting period after your last charge.
Do I need a US Entry Waiver if I have a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension?
If you have ever been denied entry into the US, a file will have been created attached to your name and date of birth. This file is never erased. A Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension is not recognized by the US and you will still require a US Entry Waiver.
If, however, you have never been denied entry at the border and you obtain a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension, your information will be removed from the Canadian Police Information Centre (CIPC).
What is the difference between a Canadian Pardon and Record Suspension?
In March of 2012, the Canadian government passed the Safe Streets and Communities Act. In this Act, some amendments were made to Criminal Records Act. One of these changes resulted in a Canadian Pardon receiving new terminology as a Record Suspension. It is the same thing as a Pardon however.
Why do I need a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension?
A Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension removes your criminal record information from the Canadian Police Information System (CPIC) which will be extremely beneficial to your life. It removes obstacles you may face when applying for schools, jobs,volunteer positions, rental agreements, adoption, child custody, and mortgage approval to name a few. It can also remove obstacles you may face when travelling or applying for Canadian Permanent Resident Status or Canadian Citizenship. It will also provide you with peace of mind.
How much does a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension cost?
The Parole Board of Canada requires a $631.00 CAD application fee. Please call 1-855-7-WAIVER for a no obligation application preparation quote. Payment plans are available upon request.
When can I apply for a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension?
One must wait 5 years after a summary conviction and 10 years after an indictable conviction in order to apply for a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension. The waiting period does not start until one fully satisfies the sentence imposed by the court, be it time served or fine paid.
What is the difference between a summary and indictable conviction?
A summary offence covers the offences which are considered less serious and can be proceeded with summarily, without the right to a jury trial. The maximum sentence for summary offences is 6 months imprisonment and/or $5000 fine. An indictable offence is anything considered more serious and the accused has the right to a trial by jury.
How long does it take to get a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension?
Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension file process times can take anywhere from 3-12 months, depending on the circumstances and amount/type of documentation that must be collected. Once the application has been submitted to the Parole Board of Canada, the wait time is typically 6-12 months for summary convictions and could take up to 24 months for indictable convictions.
What happens if I receive a new charge after I have obtained a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension?
Your Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension can be revoked if you receive new charges after having received it.
Do I need a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension if my charges were withdrawn, stayed, dismissed, or I was acquitted?
If you received charges but were not found guilty or convicted, you may not need a Canadian Pardon/Record Suspension. However, these charges can still be revealed in criminal record searches. These records can be destroyed and we can assist you in having this done. Call us at 1-855-7-WAIVER for more details.
What is a VISA?
A VISA allows for an extended stay in the US beyond a short vacation. Contact us at 1-855-7-WAIVER to discuss your situation and see if this would be right for you.