Vancouver Immigration And Cross-Border Injury Law Blog

As it stands currently, anyone who crosses the border between Canada and the U. S. who admits to using cannabis before Oct. 17, 2018, when restrictions on the use of this substance were lifted in Canada, could receive a lifetime ban on entering the United States. British Columbia residents might feel at ease when they travel to Washington State because recreational marijuana use is legal in that state. However, it remains illegal under federal laws, and as long as that remains the case, U.S. immigration laws will prohibit entry by anyone who has anything to do with cannabis.

Although border authorities warned that even marijuana-related investors, business owners and their employees would be denied access and could be permanently banned, they have slackened that stance. Previously, they maintained that people working in the marijuana industry were dealing and distributing drugs. The latest ruling is that those involved in the industry will be allowed to cross the border as long as the reason for their travels does not involve cannabis.

Sometimes, when residents of Vancouver or other British Columbia cities have to travel across the border into the United States, they are unsure of which documentation would be required. If you are experiencing such a dilemma, you might find comfort in knowing that the Border Solutions law firm can provide support and guidance throughout your dealings with U.S. immigration authorities. Cross-border law is the exclusive focus of our lawyers.

Our lawyers will assess your needs, and although you might think you need a green card, other options that are less time-consuming, costly and complicated might suffice. Obtaining a green card from Canada could take up to 18 months. Our lawyers can save you a lot of time and anguish by explaining the most optimal way in which to accomplish your goal.

British Columbia residents who plan trips south of the border as tourists, to visit family, for medical treatment, conventions, amateur sports, social activities or other nonimmigrant purposes might have many questions. Getting answers before crossing the border could avoid potential problems. The required visa type, eligibility, questions that border agents might ask and which supporting documents to have along with other U.S. immigration-related matters might need clarification.

The required visa type is the B-2 visitor's visa, and for eligibility, travellers will have to prove that their visits to the United States are of a temporary nature. They must show that they plan to stay for limited periods, after which they will return to their residences outside the United States. Furthermore, border agents would want to see that a tourist has sufficient funds to cover his or her travel and accommodation expenses.

The prohibition of cannabis in British Columbia and elsewhere in Canada has come to an end, and although the substance was legalized in the state of Washington as far back as 2012, taking it across international borders is still illegal. U.S. immigration laws are based on the fact that marijuana possession is against federal law. This is despite the fact that it is legal in both British Columbia and the state of Washington.

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee recently met with British Columbia Premier John Horgan. He says the midterm elections in the United States might bring about changes that will make it easier for British Columbia people to bring cannabis across the border. However, he says tourists would be wise to leave their marijuana behind to avoid difficulty when they cross the border into the United States.