US Visitor Info

 Qualifications for Travel under Visa Waiver Program

• They have received an authorization to travel under the VWP through the "Electronic System for Travel Authorization"
• They present the appropriate type of passport valid for six months past their expected stay in the United States 
• The purpose of their stay in the United States is 90 days or less for tourism or business (B Visa) purpose of travel
• If arriving by air or sea, they are traveling on an approved carrier and have a return trip ticket to any foreign destination
• They can demonstrate the intent to stay 90 days or less in the United States and demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves while in the United States
• If arriving by air or sea, one must travel on an approved carrier and have a return trip ticket to any foreign destination
• They must also demonstrate the intent to stay 90 days or less in the United States and show sufficient funds to support themselves while in the United States

US-VISIT PROGRAM

US-VISIT's most visible service is the collection of biometrics, digital fingerprints and a photograph, from international travellers at U.S. visa-issuing posts and ports of entry. Collecting this information helps immigration officers determine whether a person is eligible to receive a visa or enter the United States. The biometric collection process is simple, convenient and secure.  US-VISIT's innovative use of biometrics prevents identity fraud and deprives criminals and immigration violators of the ability to cross the border. US-VISIT also supports the ability to identify international travelers who have remained in the United States beyond their period of admission by analyzing biographical information.

 CANADIANS

The United States and Canada have special agreements for visa-free travel, and currently most Canadians are not subject to US-VISIT.

Entry Requirements for Citizens of Canada and Permanent Residents

Canadian Citizens - Citizens of Canada traveling to the U.S. do not require a non-immigrant Visa to visit the United States. They will need to present a valid passport at the border. Stays can not exceed no longer than 180 without permission form the consulate.

Canadian Permanent Residents - Permanent Residents of Canada, must have a non-immigrant Visa, unless they are a national of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program. A valid passport will need to be presented when entering, along with additional financial and background information. In most cases stays can not exceed 90 days.  Non-citizens of Canada will also be digitally photographed and finger scanned in order to enter the United States.

 INELIGIBILITY FOR ENTRANCE INTO USA

There are many reasons why a person may be ineligible to enter the United States.  The most common situation for this restriction is over staying a previous visit, which can result in a 3 to 10 year ban from entering the country.  It is very important, even as a visitor owning property in the US, to document your visits and keep a paper trail of your entry.   One can always dispute the situation with a  "temporary waiver of inadmissibility", however this is a lengthly detailed and expensive precess.

 Reasons for Non-Entrance to USA:

• If you have a communicable disease
• If you have a criminal record for crimes of moral turpitude
• For possession of or trafficking in a controlled substance
• If you have any involvement with terrorism or terrorist organizations
• If you have trafficked in persons
• If you have been involved in money laundering
• If you might become a public charge because of limited financial resources
• If you have been previously removed (deported) or have overstayed a previous period of admission to the United States