Enter the US During CR-1 Process?

[amy83 0]

Hello,

During the the CR-1 Process, are we going to be able to continue travelling back and forth (from Canada to US), or are we likely going to have issues trying to cross the border?

Thanks

[trailmix 77]

Welcome to VJ. Yes you can visit, be sure to bring lots of proof of ties to Canada. You may also want to drop by the Canada forum, where most people travel back and forth all the time while waiting for the visa processing.

From the VJ Canada Wiki Page:

Entry in to the U.S. is not technically prohibited while you are waiting for your visa to process. The final say on whether you will be admitted to the U.S. to visit during this period lies with the U.S. Border Protection at your port of entry.

Visa applicants, generally, are expected to provide evidence that they are intending to return to their country of residence. Therefore, applicants should provide proof of “binding” or sufficient ties to their home country or permanent residence abroad. This may include documentation of the following:

Property ownership (or rental agreement)

Employment contract or statement from employer stating that the position will continue when the employee returns (expected date of return)

In some cases the visa applicant is not asked for this proof, however it can be requested at any time and it is advisable to carry this information with you when crossing the border.

Some words of advice from VJ member flames9

1) Always tell the TRUTH. Never lie to the POE officer

2) Be confident in your replies

3) Keep your response short and to the point, don't tell your life story!

4) Look the POE officer in the eye when speaking to them. They are looking for people lying and have been trained to find them

5) Pack light! No job resumes with you.

6) Bring proof of ties to Canada (letter from employer showing when you are expected back at work, lease, etc etc)

7) Always be polite, being rude isn't going to get you anywhere, and could make things worse!!

8) Have a plan in case you do get denied (be polite). It wont harm your visa application if you are denied, that is if you're polite and didn't lie! Refer to #1

Edited May 14, 2009 by trailmix