Waiting on decision for TRP - trip is in 5 days

[txalpha1103]

Hi everyone, I am hoping for some guidance here. Due to a DWI 3 years ago I had to file for a TRP to attend a business function 7/17-7/21/17. I have received a confirmation number from the Los Angeles office saying that my application has been pre-screened and is in line for reviewing. I haven't received any other communication from them via email/regular mail. The email mentioned that the normal processing time is around 4 months but the applications are reviewed by time of travel.

I'm not sure what I need to do here, my flight is next Monday July 17th. If I don't hear from them by then, should I take the flight and then discuss when the border patrol officer when I arrive?

Any thoughts or tips would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!

 

[Jalex23]

I'm not sure what I need to do here, my flight is next Monday July 17th. If I don't hear from them by then, should I take the flight and then discuss when the border patrol officer when I arrive?

I would advise against this.

The CBSA officer can very well refuse entry as the TRP is needed, no exceptions. CIC expects you to first get the TRP and then and only then present yourself at immigration. They will most likely not make an exception for the process taking longer than usual.

 

[txalpha1103]

I can imagine that it would be the same scenario that I have seen people mentioning on these boards, showing up at the border and then applying for the TRP then. Even though the officers recommend me doing it ahead of time, it still sounds like that may be an option?

 

[bikegeek247]

I can imagine that it would be the same scenario that I have seen people mentioning on these boards, showing up at the border and then applying for the TRP then. Even though the officers recommend me doing it ahead of time, it still sounds like that may be an option?

I have the same question. Would it be better to cancel the existing TRP in progress and try to start a new one at the border or go to the border with one in process only needing approval? They're both risky but is 1 more risky?