Many people on both sides of the border welcome reports about the imminent reopening of the U.S.-Canada border. Some Canadian businesses in border towns have struggled without the support of Americans, not to mention all the families who have been kept apart for almost 16 months. Canadian Immigration has released news that the reopening is … Continue reading “Requirements for U.S. residents entering Canada when border reopens”

Citizenship and Immigration Canada issues Temporary Residence Permits, or TRPs, to persons who would typically not be admissible to visit Canada. Still, authorities decide the visit will benefit rather than harm the country. Certain circumstances make TRP holders eligible for permanent residence.  What makes TRP holders eligible to apply? Applicants for permanent residence must meet … Continue reading “What makes a temporary resident eligible for permanent residence?”

Winter is making a place for summer, and snowbirds from British Columbia and other provinces and territories are making their way back from their winter homes. However, various requirements are in place this time. Crossing into Canada from the United States requires compliance with numerous conditions and restrictions set by the government of Canada. Remaining … Continue reading “Returning snowbirds face travel restrictions”

British Columbia residents who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor non-Canadian spouses, conjugal partners or common-law partners to join them. Canadian immigration laws even provides for them to become permanent residents under the spousal sponsorship program.  Eligibility to sponsor a spouse or partner Potential sponsors of foreign partners must meet the following requirements:  They must be 18 years … Continue reading “Can British Columbia residents sponsor spouses to join them?”

A significant number of foreign nationals are shifting their focus to British Columbia and other provinces in Canada due to the limited employment opportunities south of the border. Holders of H-1B visas in the United States may choose one of the work authorization options offered under Canadian immigration laws.  Global talent stream Foreign IT workers who would … Continue reading “Work options when focus shifts to Canada”

Visitors who drive from the United States to Vancouver or elsewhere in British Columbia can avoid delays at the border by proper planning. Making the trip in a rental vehicle is a bit more complicated than when the driver owns the car. However, a border crossing could be hassle-free if the essential requirements are understood and anticipated.  Before heading … Continue reading “Crossing the border from the U.S. to Canada in a rental vehicle”

Although the use of cannabis was legalized in Canada in October of 2018, it remains illegal for people from British Columbia and other provinces to take it across the border into the United States. However, exemptions exist for those Canadians who have valid permits for carrying cannabis across the Canada-U.S.border. As part of the enforcement of … Continue reading “Enforcement policy to control cannabis taken across the border”

British Columbia residents on cross-border trips to Seattle or other destinations could face many challenges if they suffer personal injuries south of the border. Life is unpredictable, and accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. And in some cases, the injured victims were not in a vehicle when they were struck. An example … Continue reading “Cross-border injuries or death complicates damage recovery”

Travellers between the United States and Canada who might have hoped for border crossing restrictions to be lifted recently learned that nonessential travelling would be even more difficult in the immediate future. Minister Bill Blair, Canada’s Public Safety Minister, announced new health-related restrictions for cross-border drivers and their passengers, and also arriving air travellers. New … Continue reading “Increased restrictions for cross-border travellers”

People from all over the world want to live, work or go to school in Canada. And if that includes you, you may have family members who wish to join you. Sponsoring a spouse, child or other relative to come to this country can be a wonderful gift, but it is also a responsibility you … Continue reading “Sponsoring a family member: What you should know”