US immigration: Declared inadmissible — what now?

There are various reasons why a Canadian citizen from British Columbia could be refused entry into the United States. However, anyone who does not require a visa under the U.S. immigration laws, and who is not approved for entry into the United States might be eligible to make an advance application for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility. However, this can be a lengthy process, and there is a substantial cost involved — regardless of whether the application is approved.

Some of the reasons for inadmissibility include having overstayed a period of admission into the United States on a previous occasion. Anyone with a contagious disease might be denied entry, and also those who have been declared drug addicts or abusers or have been found guilty of violating controlled substance laws. Trafficking of people and involvement with money laundering are also reasons for inadmissibility.

Multiple criminal convictions and a criminal history involving moral turpitude or transgressions (CIMT) will also prevent entry. The most common CIMTs include manslaughter, murder, rape, bribery, forgery, fraud, theft, prostitution and aggravated battery. However, determination of crimes constituting a CIMT is complex and might require a thorough examination of all the aspects of the offence.

British Columbia residents who have been declared inadmissible under U.S. immigration regulations might need the support and guidance of a lawyer who focuses on helping Canadians to make border crossings into the U.S. without problems. This also applies when someone expects to be denied entry. An experienced lawyer can assess the reasons for inadmissibility and determine the viability of a waiver of ineligibility application.