Canadian wanting to move to the US

[Da14 0]

Hello! I'm new at this but I need some information... Is there a way I can be in the US for more than 6 months? My boyfriend lives there and a long distance relationship is already hard enough. I would really like if someone would light my way. Thank you!

[Angeli 5]

What type of visa do you have? If it's a tourist visa it's possible you can request for extension. My mom went to the US last April and the immigration officer gave her 6 months to stay. She filed for an extension to the USCIS and she received the approval last first week of October. So yes, you can get an extension if you file the correct form, pay the corresponding fee and state your reason why you want to stay there a little longer.

[VanessaTony 3,567]

Hello! I'm new at this but I need some information... Is there a way I can be in the US for more than 6 months? My boyfriend lives there and a long distance relationship is already hard enough. I would really like if someone would light my way. Thank you!

Easiest way would be to get married and apply for a spousal visa (or get engaged first and apply for a K1).

OR if marriage isn't your cup of tea yet:

- student visa

- work visa

I wouldn't recommend the tourist visa extension route because it's temporary at best.. whether you extend it or not.

[Hugglebuggles 60]

You can visit the US for a period of 180 consecutive days, which doesn't always equal a perfect 6 months, so keep that in mind. Extending that stay is possible, but I have never heard of anyone doing this successfully (Canadians on VJ). Also, keep in mind that the officer who clears you at the Port of Entry can always limit the duration of your stay by issuing you an I-94 with an expiration date. If they believe you intend on taking up residency in the US without the proper visa, they can turn a 6 month stay into a few months or weeks. They have complete discretion. They also have the power to deny you entry completely. It is recommended that you bring evidence of ties to Canada showing compelling reasons you would want to return. This can be something like a lease or mortgage, job, children waiting for you, etc. For more advice on this or to hear personal experiences, you may want to post in the Canada regional forum.

If you intend on living in the US, then consider the options that Vanessa describes above. Visiting for long periods of time are not a solution, as you cannot work, go to school, obtain state ID, etc. without residency status. You would essentially be in limbo between the US and Canada with very limited residential ties to both countries.

[canadian_wife 1,791]

Excellent advice Huggles. Plus, OP - too much time out of the US (I think it is 183 days but check to be sure) will no longer qualify you for your provincial heath insureance so you would not be able to go to the doctor in Canada without paying.

Good luck

[Krikit 1,163]

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