Can I Enter Canada If I Was Deported from the USA?

As a former resident of the USA, you may be concerned about traveling to Canada if you were previously deported. This article provides everything you need to know about traveling to Canada after deportation from the USA.

Understanding Deportation and Its Consequences

Deportation often carries the same weight as a criminal sentence, making entry into many countries, including Canada, very difficult. If you were deported from the USA, there is a high chance that this information is in the Canadian Immigration database. Therefore, attempting to enter Canada might be challenging.

Interoperability of Border Control Systems

Both Canada and the USA share information about individuals attempting to enter either country. This means that if you were deported from the USA, that information will be available to Canadian border control authorities. It is unlikely that you will be allowed to enter Canada without specific authorization.

Factors Influencing Your Ability to Enter Canada

The decision to allow you to enter Canada after deportation from the USA depends on the reasons for your deportation. Serious offenses, such as those involving criminal behavior, may result in a permanent ban from entering Canada. However, less severe cases may allow for temporary entry under certain conditions.

Applying for Re-entry Permission

Under normal circumstances, your application to enter Canada might be denied. However, you can apply to the US government for re-entry permission for a specific period and purpose. This process involves a non-refundable fee and is not guaranteed to be approved. High-ranking officials of friendly countries who were deported from the USA may sometimes be allowed to visit, often for state business.

Special Cases and Considerations

If you were deported, it means that there was a valid reason. Generally, you cannot be deported from the USA if you are a US citizen. If you originated from another country, such as Germany, you might be able to return to your home country but not Canada.

In some cases, you might be able to apply for a Canadian visa. However, you would need to disclose the reasons for your deportation on your application. There is a possibility that the Canadian authorities may decline to issue a visa based on your past actions.

Conclusion

In summary, while deportation from the USA typically makes entering Canada difficult, there are still avenues for you to explore. Understanding the specific circumstances surrounding your deportation will help determine if you have the best chance of gaining entry into Canada.