New PR, not received card yet - travel to US for a long weekend

[ukcannadaconnection]

Hi all

Hoping for some advice from someone that has actually been through this situation, as I have read on the forums lots of people giving advice, but can't see any responses from people after there trips (I can only assume as it was not a problem)

I received my permanent residency a couple of weeks ago and decided to go for an appointment at the CIC in Toronto to be classified as landed.

Unknown to me due to there not being any information that I wouldnt be able to leave the country without a PR card, my girlfriend had booked a trip to the US that will leave in a couple of weeks.

My situation:
UK citizen
Was on working holiday visa, which has not expired (although taken over by PR)

Basically, from what I have read, as long as I can get on the plane, then it shouldn't be a problem explaing to the official that I haven't received my PR card yet. So the risk involved is from not being able to get my return flight)

Can somebody that has done this let me know how easy it was (would prefer not to have to fly to buffalo and rent a car to drive over the border)

Thanks a lot

 

[Rob_TO]

It's usually very easy since you have a visa-exempt passport.

Upon checking into the flight to return home, do NOT mention you're a PR, or they may demand to see a PR card which you don't have. If asked simply say you're a visitor traveling on visa-exempt passport. If asked about exit from Canada you can always say you will leave by car later. If they still demand a return ticket, then purchase a fully-refundable one on the spot and cancel it right after (most people never have to even do this though).

Once in Canada airport you don't need your PR card. Just show passport + COPR to CBSA office and they can determine your PR status easily without the card.

 

[ukcannadaconnection]

Great, I think it is worth the risk!

Fingers crossed for the no question scenario!

Thanks