Canada Border Reopening for US Citizens in Buffalo, NY

With the Canada border reopening for US citizens, travel between the US and Canada is gradually returning to normal, but rules and requirements remain important to follow. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or family reasons, having a trusted border attorney can help ensure your entry is smooth and compliant with current regulations. Expert guidance from Fiegel, Carr & Joyce Law Firm in Buffalo, NY, can clarify visa eligibility, work permits, and residency considerations, making your border crossing more predictable and less stressful.

Travel Challenges: What You Should Prepare

For US citizen visitors, Canada border entry can be more complicated—especially if you have legal issues. Individuals who want to travel to Canada with DUI or other criminal record may need a special permit or legal waiver to gain entry. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer can help assess your situation, guide you through the application process, and ensure your travel complies with Canadian regulations. With the right preparation, U.S. citizen visitors’ Canada border entry can be much smoother, minimizing the risk of delays, denials, or other complications at the border.

CHECKLIST: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Pre-Testing, ArriveCAN and Border Testing

Everyone is asking me “Jamie, what do I have to do to get into Canada now that the border is open?” I am now providing the information to the public on what I am providing directly to me clients.

Travel Confidently with Personalized Legal Support

Whether you’re visiting Canada for business, leisure, or family, staying updated on entry requirements is essential. With expert legal guidance, U.S. citizen visitors Canada border entry becomes a smoother, more predictable process. By leveraging experience in both U.S. and Canadian immigration law, we help you prepare, comply, and travel confidently across the border.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the current requirements for U.S. citizens entering Canada?
U.S. citizens must comply with updated entry protocols, which may include proof of vaccination, completing the ArriveCAN form, and providing identification documents. Requirements can vary depending on the purpose of travel, so staying informed before crossing the border is essential.

Can I enter Canada if I have a DUI or other criminal record?
Travelers with a DUI or other criminal record may need a special permit or legal waiver to enter Canada. Consulting an experienced immigration lawyer can help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the application process.

Do I need to use ArriveCAN for short visits to Canada?
Yes, most travelers are required to submit their information through ArriveCAN before arrival, even for short visits. This digital form helps streamline border entry and ensures compliance with Canadian regulations.

How can a border attorney in Buffalo, NY, help me?
A border attorney can assess your unique situation, including visa eligibility and any inadmissibility issues. They provide guidance on documentation, applications, and legal waivers to help ensure smooth entry for U.S. citizen visitors.

Are there special considerations for frequent travelers between Buffalo, NY, and Canada?
Yes. Frequent travelers may face stricter scrutiny, especially if they have prior legal issues or complex documentation needs. Professional guidance can help reduce delays and ensure U.S. citizen visitors’ Canada border entry remains compliant and hassle-free.

Here is what you need to know and do!!

Complete the ArriveCAN app with citizenship documentation and vaccination information. This can only be completed 72 hours in advance of the trip. It can be completed in the APP or online at https://arrivecan.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/auth
Upload documents and vaccination information and carry originals and copies when crossing.
Take a screen shot or print out the QR code of the ArriveCAN app in case the service at the border will not allow you access the app on your mobile device.
Nexus lanes can be utilized for Nexus active card holders (if renewed online prior to expiration, a expired Nexus card can still be used for up to 2 years after expiration)
Any child under the age of 5 can gain access without quarantine if accompanied by a vaccinated parent. Child will require ArriveCAN.
Any child over 5 who chooses not to be vaccinated is subject to quarantine (if a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident of Canada) or will be refused entry (if they are a visitor or do not have a right of entry).
Border testing is random. You will be handed a kit in the booth by the CBSA Officer if you are chosen. You will have 24 hours to complete the test. Public Health will call to check if the test was completed. If you are going for a day trip and you exit Canada before the 24 hours, you do not need to take the test and can inform the Public Health Officer that you exited Canada before the 24 hour period elapsed.

If your situation is unique or more complicated, please feel free to call (716) 810-2121 to schedule your private and personalized consultation directly with me, Jamie Fiegel.

At this time, we are committed to the health and safety of our clients, our staff and our community. The government continues to accept applications and process them as normal. We are equipped to continue to prepare and process all cases. Please keep in mind that most cases take months to process. We want to continue to prepare and process these cases, so that when we do get through this crisis, you will not have lost crucial processing time. We will perform all consultations over the phone and can be best reached through our contact form.