Can a Canadian with a Work Permit Enter the USA and Return Without a TRV?

Many travelers encounter questions regarding travel rules and visa requirements. A common query is whether a Canadian with a valid work permit can enter the USA and return to Canada without a TRV (U.S. Visa Waiver Program).

Do Canadians with a Work Permit Need a TRV to Enter the USA?

Yes, a Canadian with a valid work permit from Canada can enter the USA without a TRV (U.S. Visa Waiver Program) as long as they have a valid passport and their travel is by air. However, the situation may vary based on the nature of your travel and any additional restrictions.

Additional Considerations for Travel to the USA

While a work permit is valid as proof of legal employment in Canada, it does not grant you entry into the USA without a visa. A work permit and a TRV are separate documents. Therefore, you would need to have a valid TRV in addition to your work permit to travel to the USA and return to Canada.

Tourist and Business Visas for Canadian Citizens

As a Canadian citizen, you typically do not need a visa to enter the USA for short-term visits. However, this does not apply if your citizenship requires a visa for entry into the USA. In such cases, you must obtain a visa regardless of your work permit status in Canada.

Multiple Entry Visa Requirement

For Canadian citizens with a multiple entry visa, they can certainly enter and return to the USA multiple times. However, if you are planning a single visit, a multiple entry visa is not required and you can proceed with a single-entry visa. It's important to check the specific requirements based on your travel plans.

Current Entry Restrictions and COVID Considerations

Due to the ongoing global pandemic, entering the USA with a work permit and trying to return to Canada may pose additional challenges. After your visit to the USA, you will likely be required to quarantine for 11 days, following a 3-night hotel stay. Therefore, it's crucial to consider these restrictions before planning any travel.

Is a Stopover in Canada Possible?

If you are making a stopover in Canada before traveling to the USA, and you hold valid visas for both countries, the situation changes slightly. If your stopover is indeed a mere stopover and not an extended stay, you should have no issue. However, it's important to ensure that your stopover does not violate any U.S. immigration laws and that your Canadian work permit remains valid throughout the process.

Conclusion

Traveling to the USA as a Canadian with a work permit can be managed with careful planning and awareness of visa requirements. Whether you need a TRV or a multiple-entry visa, make sure to adhere to all applicable rules to avoid any potential issues at the border. Always check the latest travel advisories and guidelines from the respective government websites to stay informed.