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Update to I-192 waiver application process

Here are the most recent steps to apply for the I-194 waiver (advance permission to enter the United States) after being denied entry to the US because of a criminal record.

  1. Find your local fingerprint office (call to see if you need an appointment). Bring your passport, photo identification that shows your address (driver's licence for example) and approximately  $25 CDN (call to confirm, most places seem to accept debit / credit cards). RCMP is now processing electronically captured fingerprints only.
  2. Wait about 1 week (current processing time on the RCMP website is 3 business days). When you receive your completed C-216C from the RCMP ensure it includes the fingerprint chart with a date stamp and the documentation related to your conviction and disposition.
  3. Complete a personal statement regarding your intended activities in the US. Don't forget to specify if your travel intentions are for business (B1 visa), or pleasure (B2), and/or both!
  4. If you are inadmissible because of a criminal conviction you must also complete a statement explaining the circumstances of each arrest, conviction and the sentence or fine imposed. Additionally you should submit any evidence or explanation of your reform or rehabilitation such as counselling, current employment, marital status, community service, etc. Don't forget to sign and date your statements!
  5. Again, if you have a criminal file in any other country's court system, you must also obtain a copy of the applicable record or an official letter from the court of jurisdiction stating the reason why a copy of the record is not available (anecdotal speculation: someone suggested you don't need this if your convictions are over 20 years ago. Mileage varies).
  6. Complete the I-192 application form (you can get it here).
  7. Fill out form G-325A (get it here). Make 4 copies of this document.
  8. Get 2 passport photos taken. (**Note: some border and pre-clearance facilities are not requiring this step - you should bring the photos just in case).
  9. Call the US Border Protection office to see if you need an appointment (here are some phone numbers for various locations). Note: Ottawa and Toronto are now processing on Saturdays only.
  10. Show up at the border protection office for your interview (bring $585 USD. Some centres now accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express). 

Additionally, here is a list of documentation that you should bring for your interview:

  • I-192 waiver application (advanced permission to enter the United States)
  • Form G-325A, Biographic information (4 copies)
  • RCMP form C-216C
  • Court records (see above)
  • Statement regarding your intended activities in the US
  • Personal statement regarding your convictions (signed and dated)
  • 2 passport photos (just in case)
  • Evidence of your Citizenship (passport)
  • $585 USD

Wait many months or more for your reply. I've been told that waiver processing times are now on average 3 to 4 months. You can check status of your waiver application after 6 months. Best of luck!

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Comments

  1. AnonymousDecember 11, 2014 at 4:26 PM

    What about the character reference letters and employment letter?

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousJanuary 29, 2015 at 7:17 PM

    Is two letters a minimum or recommended?
    Or are they not even required? HELP... Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AnonymousJanuary 31, 2015 at 8:53 PM

      I've always taken three letters. A variety...someone you work with, volunteer with, people you've known for long periods. It helps if they know about the offence and mention it in the letter and all the ways you've reformed.
      Hope that helps

      Delete
  3. AnonymousJanuary 31, 2015 at 8:52 PM

    Does anyone know if the Calgary office requires passport photos? I've never had this happen before. This will be my fourth wavier.

    ReplyDelete
  4. AnonymousJuly 4, 2017 at 12:01 PM

    If you're married to a American. And have papers from the court staying unable to find any records. Except for a record from when I was 17. How should I continue do I still file. Thanks

    ReplyDelete

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