Canadian landed immigrants will need U.S. visas starting March 17

Effective March 17, 2003, Canadian landed immigrants from British Commonwealth countries and Ireland will no longer be exempt from U.S. visa requirements.

Previously, Canadian landed immigrants from Commonwealth countries, including India and Pakistan, were treated the same way as Canadian citizens. They did not need visa stamps in their passports to enter the U.S., with the exception of K (fiancée) and  E (traders and investors) nonimmigrants.

Beginning March 17, landed immigrants will be treated the same way as any other citizen of the country they are from. Landed immigrants from India, for instance, will be subject to the same visa requirements as all other Indian citizens. This means a visa will be required for all categories of nonimmigrants, including visitors (B visas) and H-1B workers.

There is no change for Canadian citizens. Canadian citizens will not need visas to enter the U.S., except in the K and E categories. Of course, Canadians will need to meet all other entry requirements. For instance, a Canadian seeking to work in H-1B status will still need an approved petition. It is only the visa stamp in the passport that is not required.

Canadian landed immigrants from visa waiver countries will not need visas if they are entering the U.S. for 90 days or less as visitors for business or pleasure. Again, they are treated the same as any other citizen from the same country.

A visa may be obtained by applying to one of the U.S. consulates in Canada. The consulates are accepting applications from Canadian landed immigrants effective immediately. The application fee is $100 U.S., and there may be additional issuance fees. Our office assists Canadian landed immigrants in obtaining U.S. visas. Please contact us if you need help.