Working Visa in Canada and ESTA
When it comes to traveling to Canada and the United States, there are certain requirements that visitors must meet in order to enter either country. For those who are planning on working in Canada or visiting the United States, it’s important to understand the relationship between a Working Visa in Canada and the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
What is a Working Visa in Canada?
A Working Visa in Canada is a document that allows foreign nationals to work in Canada for a specific period of time. These visas are usually issued to skilled individuals who have been offered a job by a Canadian employer. The duration of the visa depends on the type of work being performed and the specific program under which the visa was issued.
What is ESTA and who needs it?
ESTA is an online system that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States without a visa for up to 90 days. Currently, citizens from 39 countries are eligible for the ESTA program, including the United Kingdom, Japan, and many European countries. However, it’s important to note that ESTA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into the United States. Instead, it’s a screening process designed to determine whether an individual is eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
How does ESTA work?
To apply for ESTA, travelers must complete an online application form and provide basic information about themselves and their travel plans. The application is then processed by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which checks the applicant’s information against various databases, including criminal and immigration records. If the application is approved, the traveler will receive an authorization that is valid for two years or until their passport expires, whichever comes first.
Does a Working Visa reset ESTA?
No, a Working Visa in Canada does not reset ESTA. If you have been approved for ESTA and then obtain a Working Visa in Canada, your ESTA authorization will remain valid until it expires or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. However, if your ESTA expires while you are in Canada, you will need to apply for a new one before traveling to the United States.
What happens if my ESTA expires while on a Working Visa?
If your ESTA expires while you are on a Working Visa in Canada, you will need to apply for a new one before traveling to the United States. It’s important to note that approval for ESTA is not guaranteed, and travelers who have been denied entry to the United States in the past may not be eligible for the program.
Can I apply for a new ESTA while on a Working Visa?
Yes, you can apply for a new ESTA while on a Working Visa in Canada. However, you will need to ensure that your ESTA authorization is valid before traveling to the United States. If your ESTA expires while you are in the United States, you may be denied entry and forced to return to Canada.
How long can I stay in Canada on a Working Visa?
The length of time that you can stay in Canada on a Working Visa depends on the specific program under which the visa was issued. Generally, Working Visas are issued for a period of one to three years, although some programs may allow for longer stays.
How long can I stay in the US under ESTA?
Under the Visa Waiver Program, travelers can stay in the United States for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it’s important to note that the length of stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry, and travelers who overstay their visa can face serious consequences.
What are the consequences of overstaying in the US?
Overstaying your visa in the United States can have serious consequences, including being barred from entering the country in the future, fines, and even deportation. It’s important to ensure that you comply with the terms of your visa and leave the United States before your authorized stay expires.
Conclusion: Understanding the relationship between Working Visa and ESTA
In summary, obtaining a Working Visa in Canada does not reset your ESTA authorization. However, it’s important to ensure that your ESTA is valid before traveling to the United States and to comply with the terms of your visa to avoid overstaying. By understanding the relationship between Working Visa and ESTA, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip to both Canada and the United States.
Resources for more information on Working Visa and ESTA
- Government of Canada: Work in Canada
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection: Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
- U.S. Department of State: Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
