Q: I have Question about Canada Visit
"I'm a U.S. citizen living in Vermont, and my two children, ages 2 and 4, live in Montreal, Canada. I cross the border every weekend using my driver's license to spend time with them, and I've had no issues so far. My question is, would it be possible for me to stay in Canada for an extended period, such as 4 months, instead of going back and forth every weekend? I'm concerned that if I request to stay longer, the border officers might deny my entry. What are the potential risks, and how should I approach this situation?"
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A:
When crossing into Canada as a U.S. citizen, you can typically stay for up to six months without a visa. However, extending your stay to four months could raise concerns with border officers if they believe you are not just visiting, but living in Canada without proper documentation. It’s important to be prepared with a clear explanation of your intentions, including proof that you still have ties to the U.S., such as a job or residence, to show that you don't intend to remain permanently.
Each time you cross, the officer has discretion to decide whether to allow entry, and an extended stay could potentially lead to more questions. It’s possible they might question why you’re staying longer than usual, so having documentation showing your ties to both countries and your reason for staying longer could be helpful. Being honest and straightforward about your situation is key.
If you're concerned about being denied entry, you could also explore applying for a visitor record to officially extend your stay. This document could allow you to remain in Canada longer without the risk of being turned away at the border.
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