US Entry Waiver FAQ

What is a US entry waiver?

A US entry waiver in an application submitted to the US government, specifically the ARO (Admissibility Review Office), in order to overcome inadmissibility status at the United States border. The application for a US entry waiver is form I-192 (Application for Advance Permission to Enter as Nonimmigrant). The approved waiver itself is delivered on form I-194.

For more information: Entry into the U.S. - Canadian with criminal record or overstay, waiver

Do I need a US entry waiver?

Here are the four most common reasons why you might be inadmissible and would require a US entry waiver:

• If you have been refused entry at the border or deported the American government will deem you inadmissible. 
• If you have a criminal record are you likely inadmissible.
• If you have a medical condition you may be inadmissible.
• If you have overstayed your welcome you are likely inadmissible.

Refer to this inadmissibility decision chart for details: US waiver inadmissibility decision chart

How long does it take to get a I-194 waiver?

The average turn-around time to have a US entry waiver processed is 8 – 12 months, start to finish. Approximately half of that time is spent preparing the necessary documentation, while the other half is spent by the American government reviewing the application and then granting your entry waiver.

How long is a US entry waiver good for?

Waivers are typically granted and valid for one, three or five years. The maximum is typically five years.

Is there a permanent US entry waiver?

You might come across discussions about something called a "September letter" which acts as a permanent waiver. Other then in situations when someone can claim the petty offence exception, this so called permanent waiver has been deemed unlikely.

Are there any limitations with a US entry waiver?

Other than an expire date, a US entry waiver allows you to travel to the United States with the same frequency and duration as any other admissible Canadian citizen.

My I-194 waiver was lost, or has been destroyed. Can I get another copy?

If an individual has acquired an approved Form I-192 or Form I-212 and is in need of a replacement copy of his or her original decision, a replacement for the decision may be requested from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Admissibility Review Office (ARO). The completed form I-824 application, with $405.00 US fee and a short explanation of why a replacement is required, can be mailed to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Admissibility Review Office, or submitted in person at a designated CBP land border or Canadian preclearance office. For additional information: https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/1275/kw/waiver

Open questions...

Can I travel to the US without a waiver if there is a family emergency?
Can I get a nexus card with a criminal record?
Can I live and work in the US with a waiver?

This FAQ was last updated on June 14, 2016.