Wait...just how long can I visit?

[firefly_chaser 0]

I have been staying in the USA since November, I took a leave of absence from my jobs since I have bad medial epycondilitis of the elbow, a form of tendonitis. We decided he would work and I would just stay home and do house chores until my arm gets better, or until I am legal. We haven't filed yet (just have to finish his G-325 A). I read something online, is this true?

"Canadians we can visit the US for up to 6 months at a time, or per calendar year, whichever comes first."

I have a five year old step son here, and he sometimes has abandonment issues, (his step dad is in Iraq). I'm hoping that I can stay longer....I dont ever want to break any laws because I would never chance being denied being with my family. Any insight into this would be helpful, thanks.

PS I am going back for march... and then I'll be staying in the USA with my family until the Visa is final. So it probably wouldn't matter if this is true, because if it goes six months until the papers, I'll be legal and this wouldn't apply to me. I just dont want to be away from my family.

[Inky 1,111]

What are you filing for?

If you are filing for a K-1 you cannot stay in the US until the visa. You have to be in Canada for the medical the police report and the interview.

Overstaying can cause a ban from the USA.

If the CBP thinks you have intent to stay in the US, they will stop you and turn you around at the border. You will need ties to Canada to get back in most likely after your march trip to Canada.

[firefly_chaser 0]

We are applying for a fiance visa, and NO I dont want to be refused entry...that's why I want to be sure.

[Penguin_ie 5,996]

You cannot stay longer than 6 months at a time. Sometimes, they will overlook the "more time out than in" thing once, so you could try going back to Canada for a few days and then come back, but you may be turned away.

[Mrs O. 29]

Yes you can stay six months at a time but if it is obvious that you spend more time in US than in your country (e.g. staying 5 months, going back to Canada for a week or 2 and then back in the US for another 5 months) it can be an issue.

[canadian_wife 1,829]

It isn't 6 months, it is 180 days. People confuse this but you are certainly pushing the envelope. Espeically since you have very limited ties to the US. Denials can and do happen to Canadians. I was denied entry twice

Good luck

PS - you will need to return to Canada for the medical and interview

[Harsh_77 718]

I am guessing you took absence of leave from your work in Canada, you entered US on VWP and not on tourist visa.

If you entered US on VWP, then you can stay for 180 days not 6 months. For you not to be banned and to keep you status good you should never overstay.

[Inky 1,111]

I am guessing you took absence of leave from your work in Canada, you entered US on VWP and not on tourist visa.

If you entered US on VWP, then you can stay for 180 days not 6 months. For you not to be banned and to keep you status good you should never overstay.

Canada is not a VWP. Canada has a special agreement with the US. One can visit and vacation for up to 180 days. It is like a B1/B2 only you do not have to apply for it.