Crossing the border

I’m often amazed at how many people think honesty is the best policy at the US border. So let’s be clear: it is NOT.

If you admit any illegal activity to a US border guard, particularly activity involving drugs, you will most likely be refused entry, fingerprinted, photographed, turned away. You will then be told you require a US entry waiver in order to gain access to the country.

My advice  is don’t volunteer any information that isn’t required and don’t admit to any past behaviour that associates you with anything remotely illegal. Don’t say you used to run with the wrong crowd. Don’t say you used to shoplift. Don’t say you used to smoke pot. As far as the border guard needs to know you have lived a very boring life without any mistakes, challenges or misdirections in life.

It doesn’t matter if you don’t have a criminal record. The United States has the right to refuse you entry based on little more than suspicion. Admit to illegal activity and the suspicion is confirmed and you will not be allowed to cross the border without first obtaining the proper documentation.

If you have any questions about crossing the border, US entry waivers, pardons in Canada or anything else relating to criminal records please get in touch.