Travel To Canada: Options For International Students In The Us

International students in the US often want to travel to Canada to explore North America and experience its exciting cities, vast natural landscapes, and distinct cultures. However, there are several important factors to consider before planning a trip to Canada as an international student in the US. This includes ensuring that all US immigration documents are in order, such as a valid SEVIS Form I-20, a valid F visa stamp in the passport, and evidence of monetary support. Additionally, it is crucial to determine the specific visa requirements for entering Canada, which may include a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Understanding these requirements and planning ahead are essential steps for international students intending to travel between the US and Canada.

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International students in the US can apply for a Canadian visitor visa online or by mail

International students in the US who want to travel to Canada should ensure that all their United States immigration documents are in order for when they return. This includes a valid SEVIS Form I-20, signed by an advisor at their International Student Services Office, and a valid F visa stamp in their passport (unless they qualify for Automatic Visa Revalidation). It's also important to carry evidence of monetary support as listed in Section 8 of the I-20.

If you're an international student in the US and want to visit Canada, you may need to apply for a Canadian visitor visa. This can be done online or by mail. The process is straightforward, but there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, complete a DS-160 application form online and print out the confirmation page with a barcode. Secondly, create an appointment profile, select your preferred Canada Post pickup location, and pay the non-refundable visa application fee. Finally, schedule your visa interview appointment. It's worth noting that if you're renewing your visa and are eligible for an interview waiver, instructions will be provided on how to mail your passport and required documents to the Consulate.

It's important to note that citizens of certain countries may not need a visitor visa to enter Canada. These countries are often part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Additionally, if you're only visiting the US by land, you don't need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) when returning from the US. However, it's recommended to renew your TRV if possible. If you're travelling by air, it's best to confirm with your airline.

When applying for a Canadian visitor visa, it's advisable to do so well in advance of your planned trip. You can apply by mail or in person at the closest Visa Application Center, which is in Los Angeles. If your home country is on the Biometrics list, don't forget to visit the Application Support Center in Portland first. Always use a trackable shipping method when sending important documents, such as your passport and I-20 form.

In summary, international students in the US can explore the exciting cities, natural landscapes, and unique cultures of Canada by applying for a Canadian visitor visa online or by mail. Remember to have all your US immigration documents in order and follow the necessary steps for a smooth visa application process.

Students from certain countries may not need a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Students from certain countries may not need a visa to enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The VWP allows citizens of particular countries to travel to the US for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a visa. It is important to note that the VWP does not apply to all countries, and the eligibility criteria can vary. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific requirements for your country of citizenship.

If you are eligible for the VWP, you will need to meet certain requirements, including having a valid passport, a completed DS-160 application form, and a valid purpose for your visit. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that your stay in Canada does not exceed the permitted duration. For most students, the maximum stay in Canada under the Automatic Visa Revalidation process is 30 days. However, it's important to note that citizens of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North Korea, and Cuba are not eligible for this process and will need to apply for a new visa stamp if their visa has expired.

When returning to the US from Canada, it is essential to have all the necessary immigration documents, such as a valid SEVIS Form I-20 signed by an advisor at your International Student Services Office. If you are on an F-1 visa, you may also need to carry your Employment Authorization Card (EAC) and a letter of employment or proof of personal funds if you are not yet employed. It is worth noting that international students on F or J visas are generally advised against travelling to Canada solely to obtain a new visa stamp from a US Consulate.

Additionally, students from countries that require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada may be exempt from this requirement when returning from the US by land. However, it is recommended to renew the TRV if possible. If travelling by air, it is important to confirm the requirements with your airline. For students who require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada, an exemption may apply if returning to Canada after visiting only the US or St. Pierre and Miquelon, provided that the authorized stay period has not been exceeded.

Automatic Visa Revalidation allows students to return to the US from Canada on an expired visa for a short stay

International students in the US on an F-1 visa can usually stay in the country on an expired visa as long as they maintain their student status. However, if they travel to a country where automatic revalidation does not apply, they will need a valid visa to return to the US.

Automatic Visa Revalidation allows students to return to the US from Canada (or Mexico) on an expired visa for a short stay of fewer than 30 days. This process is also known as automatic visa revalidation. However, it is important to note that citizens of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North Korea, and Cuba are not eligible for this process. Students from these countries will need to apply for a new visa stamp at a US consulate or embassy if their visa stamp will be expired upon re-entry to the US.

Students who are eligible for Automatic Visa Revalidation must still ensure they have all the necessary documentation when returning to the US. This includes a valid SEVIS Form I-20, signed on Page 3 by an advisor at their International Student Services Office, and evidence of monetary support as listed in Section 8 of the I-20. If the student has F-1 Practical Training, they will also need to carry their Employment Authorization Card (EAC) and their letter of employment/research. If they are not yet employed, they will need proof of personal funds.

It is recommended that students planning to re-enter the US under the Automatic Visa Revalidation process carry with them the CBP article on automatic visa revalidation, as well as printouts of the relevant regulations. It is also important to confirm that the airline is familiar with the visa revalidation process and will issue a boarding pass even with an expired US visa in the passport.

Citizens of certain countries are not eligible for Automatic Visa Revalidation and need a new visa stamp

International students in the US with an expired visa can take advantage of the Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR) process to re-enter the country after a trip to Canada. However, this option is not available to citizens of certain countries. Citizens of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North Korea, and Cuba are not eligible for AVR and must apply for a new visa stamp at a US consulate or embassy if their visa will be expired upon re-entry. This is because they are not eligible for the contiguous territory rule, which allows eligible visa holders to enter the US from Canada or Mexico without a new visa.

Individuals who are not eligible for AVR and need a new visa stamp should be aware of the following:

• They must apply for a new visa stamp at a US consulate or embassy, as visa stamps cannot be obtained in Canada.
• The process of obtaining a new visa stamp may vary depending on the individual's country of citizenship. Some countries may have specific requirements or restrictions.
• It is recommended to consult with an advisor at the International Student Services Office to understand the specific process and requirements for obtaining a new visa stamp.
• Obtaining a new visa stamp may take time, and individuals should plan their travel accordingly.
• A valid passport, proof of financial support, and other supporting documents are typically required when applying for a new visa stamp.
• In some cases, individuals may need to provide additional documentation, such as criminal/court records or translations of non-English documents.

It is important to note that attempting to enter the US with an expired visa without taking the necessary steps, such as obtaining a new visa stamp or utilising AVR if eligible, may result in denied entry or other legal consequences. International students are advised to ensure that their immigration documents are in order before travelling to Canada or any other international destination.

Students from countries requiring a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada don't need it when returning from the US by land

International students in the US often take the opportunity to travel to Canada to explore North America. However, it is important to ensure that all US immigration documents are in order before travelling to Canada, as well as understanding the requirements for re-entry to Canada.

Students from countries that require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada do not need it when returning from the US by land. However, it is recommended to renew the TRV if possible. If travelling by air, airlines should be consulted for confirmation. Students from countries that require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to fly to Canada are also exempt from this requirement if they are re-entering Canada after visiting only the US or St. Pierre and Miquelon, provided they return within the authorised period.

It is important to note that citizens of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North Korea, and Cuba are not eligible for Automatic Visa Revalidation and will need to apply for a new visa stamp if their visa has expired upon re-entry to the US. Unless a country of citizenship is among the visa-exempt nations, a TRV must be obtained from Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

International students in the US intending to visit Canada should apply for a visitor visa in advance. This can be done online or by mail. Students should also ensure they have a valid SEVIS Form I-20, signed by an advisor at their International Student Services Office, and a valid F visa stamp in their passport, unless they qualify for Automatic Visa Revalidation. Evidence of monetary support, as listed in Section 8 of the I-20, is also necessary.

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