Quote:
Originally Posted by Anders
I'm finding conflicting stuff on the internet regarding Canadian visa requirements for US citizens. I don't need a visa to visit, as a US citizen. Should I just drive up and expect to get a 6 month passport stamp at the border, which I can then apply online to extend? That's my best guess from looking at like 3 different immigration sites.
I'm a US citizen living in a Bordertown in Wa St., and I've crossed the border at leat 100 times in the last 5 years. Answering your question is not as simple as a yes or no.
You will be asked some questions by the agent at the booth. Depending on your answers, you will be waved through and be on your way (they have never stamped my passport), or you will be sent into customs and immigration for further questioning.
Most common questions:
Where do you live.
What is the purpose of your vist to Canada.
Are you bringing anything into CA to be left behind.
When do you plan to return to the US
Do you have any firearms or weapons aboard.
Have you ever been arrested.
Do you plan to work while you are in CA.
How much money do you have with you.
Best plan is to say you are visiting for 4-5 days, beacuse you want to see their great country. Be sure to have a hotel reservation, and have a printout of it fo refer to.
Do not have 6 months worth of stuff in your vehicle - that would be inconsistent with what you just told the agent, and they are not stupid. Don't raise a red flag!
Take your laptop, and clothes for 5 days, Canadian cash is not necessary, as using your debit card at any ATM will get you what you need.
Do NOT tell them you are moving there to play poker - you will be sent inside and likely back home unless you are very lucky.
Once you are past that agent you are in for as long as you want.
Buy what you need once you are in, be prepared for a call from your cc's bank to confirm that you are where you are and making purchses/atm wd there.
Be prepared to pay 1.5 times for food after tax.
Western CA especially near the coast is one of the best places in the world to live though expensive...Relax, don't speed , don't drink and drive, and use common sense.