As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, I am frequently asked about the process of re-entering Canada from the United States on an expired Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This topic often sparks confusion and concern amongst travelers, and rightly so. In this blog post, we will demystify the process and provide clarity on this complex issue.
Understanding the TRV
Firstly, it’s important to understand what a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is. A TRV is an official document issued by a Canadian visa office that is placed in your passport to show that you have met the requirements for admission to Canada as a temporary resident. Often erroneously referred to as a visitor visa, it allows you to board a plane to Canada or enter via a land border. Only citizens of certain countries require a TRV, you can check if you need a TRV here.
Can I Re-Enter Canada from the United States on an Expired TRV?
The short answer is, yes, but only under certain conditions. Canada has a unique agreement with the United States known as the Automatic Revalidation of Visa provision. This agreement allows certain foreign nationals to re-enter Canada from the US or Saint Pierre and Miquelon on an expired TRV, provided they meet certain criteria.
To qualify for automatic visa revalidation, you must:
1. Have a valid temporary status in Canada still
2. Only have travelled to the US or Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
3. Not have applied for a new TRV while in the United States
It's crucial to note that automatic revalidation does not apply to individuals who have been out of status in Canada, have travelled to countries other than the United States or Saint Pierre and Miquelon, or have applied for a new visa and have not yet received a decision.
Plan Your Travel Accordingly
If you're planning to travel to the United States with an expired TRV, ensure that you meet the conditions for automatic revalidation. Plan your travel in such a way that you do not exit the US and try to re-enter Canada from a third country.
Final Thoughts
Navigating immigration rules can be a complex process, and every individual case has its own unique set of circumstances. If you are unsure about your situation or have any questions about re-entering Canada from the United States on an expired TRV, it's always best to seek professional advice.
As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, I am here to help you navigate through these complexities and provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. We often recommend having us review your case before you travel to the US on your expired TRV.
Remember, understanding immigration rules and planning your travel accordingly can save you a lot of trouble and ensure a smooth journey.
At Calver Immigration Consulting Inc., we can help you navigate through these complexities and provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. book an online consultation with us here.
Our Services
Calver Immigration Consulting Inc. is rated Canada's number one boutique immigration consultancy. We serve clients across Canada and internationally. Our Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant has over 10 years of experience in Canadian Immigration law serving those in Canada and abroad.
We can assist with applications for both temporary and permanent residency in Canada. We handle applications for study permits, permanent residency, family class sponsorship, visitor visas, work permits, and Canadian citizenship. We also handle criminal inadmissibility cases by developing remedies for refusal.
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