U.S. Entry Waiver – Travel Legally to the United States

Q: Do I need a U.S. Waiver if I already have a Canadian Pardon?

Yes. A Record Suspension limits access within Canada; however, U.S. authorities decide their own admissibility. Therefore, you still need a U.S. Entry Waiver to cross the border legally. In practice, both steps often work together.

Q: How long is a U.S. Waiver valid?

Typically, DHS grants waivers for 1, 2, or 5 years. To stay current, renew before expiry to maintain uninterrupted travel. Afterward, keep copies of approval letters.

Q: Can I travel while my application is pending?

No. You must wait until DHS approves and issues your waiver; after approval, CBP officers still make the final admissibility decision at the border. Accordingly, carry your waiver and valid ID.

Q: What documents will I need?

Generally, you’ll provide RCMP fingerprints, local police checks, court documents, proof of rehabilitation, and Form I-192. Meanwhile, our team helps you obtain and organize each item; consequently, your package aligns with DHS expectations.

If you were refused entry at the U.S. border or you carry a Canadian criminal record (even if pardoned), you may still travel. Specifically, you can apply for a U.S. Entry Waiver (Form I-192). In short, this waiver gives you official permission from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enter the U.S. as a non-immigrant.

Because the process can be long and complex, our team guides you from fingerprints to final submission. With more than 25 years of experience, Identification Canada helps you gather documents, avoid mistakes, and move faster. Additionally, if you also need a Canadian Pardon (Record Suspension), we’ll map out both steps so nothing falls through the cracks. As a result, you move forward with a clear, legal plan.

U.S. Entry Waiver assistance from Canada

Why apply for a U.S. Waiver?

In many cases, a waiver removes the barrier that prevents lawful entry. Therefore, it protects your travel plans and your livelihood.

✔ Legally cross the U.S. border despite a Canadian criminal record
✔ Reduce the risk of denial and lengthy questioning at customs
✔ Protect employment that requires U.S. travel
✔ Travel for vacations, business, or family visits with confidence

For general checks, when fingerprints aren’t required, see our Police Clearance Certificates. Otherwise, continue below for waiver steps and fees.

Our service fees

Total Service Fee: $750 CAD

Included, you receive:

✅ $25 RCMP fingerprint certification charge
✅ $60 digital fingerprinting at our Montreal walk-in centre (Fingerprinting Services)
✅ Preparation, review, and submission guidance
✅ Handling of disbursements
✅ Optional monthly installment plans

In short, we streamline the paperwork so you can focus on travel readiness.

Not included, you may still need:

❌ $1,100 USD DHS (Form I-192) filing fee
❌ DHS fingerprinting fee (where applicable)
❌ Translation costs for non-English documents
❌ Fingerprint fees if not taken at our Montreal office

For reference, see U.S. Customs and Border Protection and USCIS Form I-192.

Processing times

First, document collection takes 1–6 months (police checks, court documents, fingerprints).
Next, DHS reviews your application for 4–6 months on average.
Finally, the total timeline is usually 6–12 months, depending on complexity and workload.

Need fingerprints first? Visit our RCMP-accredited fingerprinting page (Montreal walk-in). Meanwhile, we can begin gathering court and police documents.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a U.S. Waiver if I already have a Canadian Pardon?

Yes. A Record Suspension (Canadian Pardon) limits access within Canada. However, U.S. authorities make their own decisions. Therefore, you still need a U.S. Entry Waiver to cross the border legally. In practice, both steps often work together.

How long is a U.S. Waiver valid?

Typically, DHS grants waivers for 1, 2, or 5 years. To stay current, renew before the expiry date so travel continues without interruption. Afterward, keep copies of approval letters for your records.

Can I travel while my application is pending?

No. You must wait until DHS approves and issues your waiver. After approval, CBP officers at the border still make the final admissibility decision. Accordingly, carry your waiver and supporting ID at all times.

What documents will I need?

Generally, you’ll provide RCMP fingerprints (we take them in Montreal), local police checks, court documents, proof of rehabilitation, and a completed Form I-192. Meanwhile, our team helps you obtain and organize each item. Consequently, your package meets DHS expectations.

For more details, see our sitewide FAQs.

Need help with your U.S. Entry Waiver?

Let us simplify it. First, we take your fingerprints; next, we prepare and review your package; finally, we guide your submission. As a result, you avoid delays and travel with confidence.