United States COVID Travel Update: YOU CAN GO!

Have you heard the news? For those not following pandemic updates as closely as we have been, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced that “Non-essential travel resumes for fully vaccinated non-citizens with valid travel documents”. It’s been a long few years of travel restrictions.

Unfortunately, those “valid travel documents” include a United States Entry Waiver if you have a Canadian criminal record. Our advice, start the process sooner rather than later as all good things take time. Luckily, the process has now moved online through a CBP portal that is more “user-friendly” than the previous paper-heavy filing.

You’ll still need substantial documentation however, like a certified criminal record check from the RCMP, court records, and an explanation of your inadmissibility (reason for not being able to travel); that’s just to start.

Instead, what you might want to consider If you’ve never before been stopped, questioned, or refused entry at the border, is obtaining a Canadian pardon as an alternative. Travelling to the US with a Canadian pardon is not a guarantee, but a loophole. The Americans should not have access to your prior record once sealed with the pardon if you’ve had no issues previously.

The US Entry Waiver vs Canadian Pardon debate isn’t black and white, and truly comes down to personal preference and comfort levels. Legally, according to the Americans, you should obtain the US Entry Waiver and be honest with them at the border regarding the existence of a record or Canadian pardon. We can’t advise you either way, but can provide the details in order for you to make an informed decision and answer any questions you have along the way!

Call now! The border is open and Disney World is waiting!