Hello,


I'm a French citizen currently residing in Canada. My citizenship normally would allow me to travel to the US for tourism under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).


However, having committed a crime of moral turpitude in Canada in the past (shop lifting under 5000$), I've been refused entry to the US a few week ago, and this even though having been granted a pardon in 2012. I am aware of the fact that I could try to apply for a "temporary waiver of inadmissibility", which takes a few months to be processed, and really isn't guaranteed to be delivered.


However - The Border officer suggested I try to fill out an application for a nonimmigrant visa in order to travel in the future, and that such a visa would be valid from 1 to 10 years.


I have looked it up on the internet, but haven't found any clear answer on whether a nonimmigrant visa would be the proper solution in my specific situation.

Any light on this would be greatly appreciated!

Why 'look it up on the net' which you are still doing by asking us and call Canadian Immigration. I don't think a non-immigrant visa is the answer depending on how long you have been living in Canada, on what kind of visa have you been living in Canada?

I have lived for 12 years in Canada with a student visa and several temporary work permits. I'm not sure if it's relevant, but I'll be a Permanent Resident very soon (ie in a few days).

midcentury, wish I could answer your question in lieu of your most recent information, but I cant. Suggest you call Immigration Canada to get a really qualified answer. You can remain anonymous when asking if that is what you are worried about.

tickle: The OP is asking about entry to the U.S.

Thanks for your answers. My doubts indeed are relative to entry to the US.
I guess I can call a US consulate, but I was wondering if I could benefit from an external expertise. I hope you'll forgive me, but my past experiences with immigration authorities (mainly those of Canada) significantly diminished my faith in them consistently delivering complete and accurate information.

tickle: The OP is asking about entry to the U.S.

Yes, I know that, newacct. I suggested calling Canadian immigration because he stated he would be a permanent resident soon. That impacts his entry into the US for visiting.

This applies to all, if you have criminal records (DUIs charged as felony included), VWP is not for you. Apply for non-immigrant visa and you must disclose all info.