Help with applying for Visitor Visa

[ShellyG]

I noticed while I was filling out my application that they ask for a valid passport number. I don't have a passport seeing that I'm American and don't need one in order to come into Canada. Will this cause a problem?
Also, I got arrested years back, but all charges were dropped. I have paperwork with all info that I will be attaching, but will the fact that I have been arrested before prevent them from approving my visa?
Thank you for any help or insight.

[PMM]

Hi

I noticed while I was filling out my application that they ask for a valid passport number. I don't have a passport seeing that I'm American and don't need one in order to come into Canada. Will this cause a problem?
Also, I got arrested years back, but all charges were dropped. I have paperwork with all info that I will be attaching, but will the fact that I have been arrested before prevent them from approving my visa?
Thank you for any help or insight.

1.  Without a passport you won't get back into the US.
2.  No, as long as you were found not guilty, charges dismissed or dropped.
3.  By the way if are intending to come as a visitor, you don't require a visitor visa you know.

PMM

[ShellyG]

Thank you...Yes, I know I don't need a visa to visit here...but I've been here for three months already, and want to stay here with my fiance for a few more months until we get married. I do have family in NY and would like to visit them once or twice a month. Without a visa, I'm afraid they won't let me back into Canada since I've been here for so long already ( I know I have six months to stay  here, but they give me such a hard time at the border when I try and come back into Canada. Almost didn't let me in last time )
thank you for your help.
Still wondering if I just leave the spot asking for a passport number on the application blank??

[Karlshammar]

What you are applying for is an extension of stay, not a visa.

I would attach a cover letter explaining my situation, and why there is no passport number. In the meantime, get a passport; it makes life easier.

[Suin]

actually why it is a problem to apply for passport? just pay a visit to the US consulate in Toronto and file the application.

[Karlshammar]

I'd recommend the same, though obviously file an application for an extension 30 days before your status expires as "I was waiting for a passport" probably won't be accepted as an excuse.

actually why it is a problem to apply for passport? just pay a visit to the US consulate in Toronto and file the application.

[toby]

If you decide to apply for a passport, check whether it is better to have it issued in the USA or not.  In Canada, citizens can now use a fast-trak system to renew a passport -- but only if the passport was issued in Canada.