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US citizen living in Canada - Can I cross the border freely?

aflower

Full Member
Sep 7, 2013
20
0
123
Seattle
Category........
Visa Office......
Ottowa
Job Offer........
Pre-Assessed..
App. Filed.......
02-12-2013
AOR Received.
05-12-2013
Med's Done....
09-24-2013
Hi: I'm a US citizen, married to a Canadian. I brought my two children with me (who are US citizens as well) to live in Canada while my Outland Immigration application is being processed for the three of us; under the Spousal Sponsorship. FYI, I do have paperwork from the USA authorizing me to remove the kids from the country. Anyway, it's been over a year now that I've waited for the PR and much passed the 6 month "visitor" stay time. I want to travel back to the US with kiddos but am afraid that Canada border patrol won't let us come home (to BC). Is this a legit concern of mine? Should I just stay put until I have PR? Thank you.
 

scylla

VIP Member
Jun 8, 2010
93,612
20,918
Toronto
Category........
Visa Office......
Buffalo
Job Offer........
Pre-Assessed..
App. Filed.......
28-05-2010
AOR Received.
19-08-2010
File Transfer...
28-06-2010
Passport Req..
01-10-2010
VISA ISSUED...
05-10-2010
LANDED..........
05-10-2010
Yes - your concern is somewhat legit. As an American you should be allowed back into Canada - however there's always some small chance you may be refused entry. Up to you whether you take the risk

Also, be aware that you and your children are not allowed to "live" in Canada at this time. You are only allowed to visit. Avoid using the word "live" when dealing with border officials.