A National Non-Profit Organization for over 32 years.

Turned away at the US border

People are always in shock when they are denied entry and turned away at the U.S. border due to an old criminal record.  They are usually in shock because they never thought it would get in the way, or they travelled in the past and were never denied entry.

Criminal Record Checks at the U.S. Border

The U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) performs random criminal checks which have become more common. Even if you have travelled safely in the past, there is a high likelihood that you will be stopped at the U.S. border and denied entry if you have a criminal record or if you have been charged with a criminal offence and the charges were later dismissed, withdrawn, stayed or discharged.

What to Do After Being Denied Entry to the U.S. From Canada

Once you have been denied entry to the U.S. from Canada, you will need a U.S. entry waiver (I-192 or I-194) to return.  The process of obtaining a U.S. entry waiver can be lengthy and complicated.

If you have never been denied entry to the U.S., it’s important to obtain a Pardon / Record Suspension or File Destruction so that your criminal record will be removed from record and cannot be seen by the CBP.

The U.S. Entry Waiver: What It Is and Why You Need It

A U.S. entry waiver, forms I-192 or I-194, is a document that grants temporary admission into the United States to Canadians who are otherwise not allowed to enter, such as those who have been turned away at the border.

These waivers are necessary for individuals who have been denied entry due to criminal records. The application process is comprehensive, requiring detailed documentation and often taking several months to over a year to complete.

Why Do You Need an Entry Waiver?

Legal Requirement for Entry: If you have a criminal record and attempt to enter the U.S. without a waiver, you risk being denied entry, detained, or even banned from future travel to the U.S. The waiver serves as a legal pass; it shows that, yes, you do have a criminal record, but you have been given permission to enter the country

Increased Security Measures: In recent years, the U.S. has increased its border security measures. With advanced data-sharing agreements between Canada and the U.S., it’s more likely than ever that your criminal record will be flagged during border checks.

Peace of Mind: Holding a U.S. Entry Waiver removes the uncertainty and stress associated with border crossing. It makes certain that you can travel for business, leisure, or family reasons without the fear of being denied entry to the U.S. from Canada

Don’t Get Turned Away at the U.S. Border, Trust Pardons Canada

Being turned away at the U.S. border because of a criminal record can impose limitations that can change your life, but with Pardons Canada, you can navigate this challenge with confidence.

Our expertise in handling U.S. entry waiver preparations and pardon/record suspension applications can help make sure that your past won’t limit your future travel plans for work, fun or family.

Here is How We Help People

Read some stories of our clients that we have helped travel to the U.S. safely again in our 30+ years of serving Canadians with criminal records.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information on how our services help our clients who have been turned away at the U.S. border, consult our comprehensive FAQ page and the section below.

What should I do if I’m denied entry at the U.S. border because of a criminal record?

If denied entry, it’s important to understand the reasons why it happened and consider applying for a U.S. entry waiver for future travels. The team at Pardons Canada can guide you through the whole process to ensure the best possible result.

Will a Canadian pardon let me travel to the U.S.?

Once you have been turned away at the U.S. border, re-entering is much more difficult. A Canadian pardon is not recognized by U.S. border authorities, so if you have been denied entry before you will likely need a U.S. entry waiver anyway.

How long does a U.S. entry waiver last?

U.S. Entry Waivers can be issued for periods ranging from one to five years. The validity period is determined by U.S. authorities and can vary based on individual circumstances and your flie. Pardons Canada can help you understand the possibilities available to you.

Contact Us After Being Denied Entry to the U.S. from Canada

We provide services, from comprehensive consultations to efficient application processing, to reduce the likelihood of unpleasant surprises at the border and allow you to cross again if they already have. Trust in our experienced team to guide you through every step, ensuring a smoother, stress-free border crossing experience. Contact Pardons Canada today to secure your travel freedom and move forward confidently.

Pardons Canada undertakes all necessary steps and procedures for removing your criminal record, including: Pardons/Record Suspensions, Purges, Photograph & Fingerprint Destruction, and U.S. Entry Waivers.

How Can We Help You?

Speak with Counselor Call (888) 314-5797

Monday to Friday
8:30 am – 5:00 pm EST

Visit our Head Office

1376 Bathurst St.
Toronto, ON M5R 3J1

Free Consultation

Get Started NowRequest FREE Consultation