Border Crossing Rules when waiting for PR

[aflower]

My plan is to submit my Spousal visa application at the end of October 2013 outland. In December I plan on moving to BC from Washington to be with my husband. Even though I know I can't work or bring my stuff with me until the PR is approved I am curious about border crossing. I need to come back to Washington once a month for child custody purposes and to help my dad who had a stroke. I'm concerned that I may not be allowed back in Canada if I cross too much? Also, what do you say to the border patrol when they ask where you live and how long you plan to stay? For example, if I'm crossing back in to Canada from Washington do I be honest and say I'm living in BC even though I don't have a visa? Please advise.

 

[truesmile]

Just don't use the word "living", keep it to "visiting" until you really have PR. If you're worried, consider getting yourself a NEXUS card (fee is $50 and it's valid for 5 years). Generally makes crossing a breeze, (with rare exception of course). It's great to have one to avoid customs queues at Can/US airports in general too.

 

[Catou]

What truesmile said

Just keep in mind that its illegal to "live" in Canada until you have the right to live there and you don't get that right until PR is approved. "Visit" is the only safe word to use.

 

[tabarnouche]

You should have a sponsorship approval a month or so after you submit your application. Once you have that border crossing is far easier. Tell them that you are hoping to stay with your husband while your application is being processed and show them your sponsorship approval letter, marriage certificate, app receipt, copy of meds/police clearance. We just crossed and it was very easy to get a 6 month visitor record. Won't guarantee you access back and forth on your trips each month, but I'm sure it'll be a lot easier for a border agent to waive you through if he sees it.

 

[DuberBlue]

We just crossed and it was very easy to get a 6 month visitor record. Won't guarantee you access back and forth on your trips each month, but I'm sure it'll be a lot easier for a border agent to waive you through if he sees it.

For sure...the visitor record does not guarantee re-admission to Canada (even says so on the form) but ever since we've gotten it, there has been no issue with back and forth crossings. They look at it and they don't even ask my wife her status, intentions, anything really...they just wave us through.