Is nonimmigrant visa a solution when refused entry in the US under the VWP?
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!