VWP and travel to Canada
Many travelers to the United States often wonder if they can visit Canada during their trip and still return to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The VWP allows citizens of certain countries, including Canada, to enter the US without a visa for up to 90 days for business or pleasure purposes. However, traveling to Canada during a VWP visit to the US requires some additional considerations.
What is the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
The Visa Waiver Program is a program that allows citizens of certain countries to enter the United States without a visa for up to 90 days. This program is intended for business or pleasure purposes only and is not intended for individuals who wish to study or work in the US. The VWP was created to simplify the process of traveling to the US for short periods of time and to promote tourism and business travel to the US.
Eligibility requirements for the VWP
To be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, travelers must be citizens of one of the 39 countries that participate in the program and have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Travelers must also have a valid passport, not be inadmissible to the US, and have a return or onward ticket. Additionally, travelers must not have violated any US immigration laws in the past.
Travel to Canada under the VWP
A VWP traveler can travel to Canada for up to 180 days without a visa. However, the traveler must still meet the entry requirements for Canada, including having a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds for the trip, and a return or onward ticket. Travelers should also be aware that they will need to go through Canadian border control upon arrival.
Crossing the Canadian border: what to expect
When crossing the Canadian border, travelers will need to present their passport, ESTA, and any other relevant travel documents. Canadian border control may ask questions related to the purpose of the trip, the length of stay, and proof of sufficient funds. Travelers should be prepared to answer these questions and provide any necessary documentation.
Returning to the USA under the VWP
To return to the US under the VWP, travelers will need to present their passport, ESTA, and any other relevant travel documents. US border control may ask similar questions to those asked at the Canadian border, including the purpose of the trip and proof of sufficient funds. Travelers should be prepared to answer these questions and provide any necessary documentation.
VWP and border control: what you need to know
Border control officers may deny entry to travelers who do not meet the entry requirements for the VWP or who have violated US immigration laws in the past. Travelers should also be aware that border control officers have the discretion to deny entry based on any concerns they may have about the traveler’s intentions or background.
Common issues with VWP travel to Canada
Some common issues that travelers may encounter when traveling to Canada under the VWP include not meeting the entry requirements for Canada, not having sufficient funds for the trip, or not having a return or onward ticket. It is important for travelers to carefully review the entry requirements for both the US and Canada before traveling to ensure a smooth trip.
Options if you don’t qualify for the VWP
If a traveler does not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, they may be able to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to enter the US. For travel to Canada, a traveler may need to apply for a Canadian visa depending on their nationality and the length and purpose of their trip.
Applying for a Canadian visa: what you need to know
Travelers who need to apply for a Canadian visa should carefully review the application requirements and timeline for processing. The application process may include providing biometric information and undergoing a medical exam. It is important for travelers to begin the application process well in advance of their planned trip to Canada.
Returning to the USA after a Canadian visit
When returning to the US after a Canadian visit, travelers will need to follow the same entry requirements as they did when first entering the US under the VWP. This includes presenting their passport, ESTA, and any other relevant travel documents.
Conclusion: VWP and travel to Canada
Traveling to Canada during a VWP visit to the US is possible, but requires additional considerations and preparation. Travelers should carefully review the entry requirements for both the US and Canada, and be prepared to answer questions related to the purpose of the trip and proof of sufficient funds. By following these guidelines, travelers can enjoy a smooth and successful trip to both the US and Canada.
