Reassure me that Pearson is not full of jerks?

[Not a Tailor 1,370]

I'm going to visit my wife tomorrow and I have evidence of ties to Canada (letter from the director of my place of employment, lease agreement, rent receipt, pet sitting agreement, NOA1, flight itinerary showing that I have a return ticket). I know I'm probably freaked out over nothing at all, but if someone felt like saying 'hey, Pearson's easy, they're not going to be jerks to you, probably' it would go a long way. I'm a bit nervous, as this is the first time I've visited since we filed.

Sorry, just could use some reassurance, even though I am very aware that nothing is definite!

[NikLR 13,232]

Most of the airports are pretty easy. Having the return ticket is key.

You'll likely get asked more questions like where do you work, etc... but be honest. I visited my husband 3 times and was SUPER nervous the first time, but the next two times were a breeze after that. Some people don't like to go into detail byt I popped up with "visiting my husband" and didn't have an issue. Just remember you're not doing anything wrong, take a deep breath, and you'll be fine.

[AtariBaby 17]

My situation was very different than yours: Girlfriend coming to visit me repeatedly and staying for weeks each visit on a tourist. I can tell you that they harassed her unmercifully, after she visited several times. But so long as everything is on the up and up, you'll be fine. Do NOT bring through anything that might miscontrue an intent to do any menial work, like credentials or tools, etc. I would also password protect your phone and your computer, because they will pop them open and have a look around otherwise, should they decide to pick on you.

Sorry, an honest question deserves an honest answer.

Edited June 26, 2014 by AtariBaby

[NikLR 13,232]

My situation was very different than yours: Girlfriend coming to visit me repeatedly and staying for weeks each visit on a tourist. I can tell you that they harassed her unmercifully, after she visited several times. But so long as everything is on the up and up, you'll be fine. Do NOT bring through any indications you might be working. I would also password protect your phone and your computer, because they will pop them open and have a look around otherwise.

Never did for me at Calgary or Edmonton. Every time I went through TSA I had to haul out the gigantic ASUS gaming rig... annoying as heck. Even if you password protect them (they should be off anyhow) they can ask you to unlock them and still pop around on them. I would have wished them luck on my laptop because the battery was dead and wouldn't charge. LOL

Edited June 26, 2014 by NLR

[AtariBaby 17]

But do you have to let them? I can only relay my experience: she had her phone unlocked, and her computer locked. They went through all the content on her phone and had quite a good time passing around risqué photos on it and giving her a hard time about it. Her computer was password protected and she declined to give them access, and they let it go at that.

Edited June 26, 2014 by AtariBaby

[NikLR 13,232]

But do you have to let them?

Likely yes.

[AtariBaby 17]

Well, a knowledgeable answer would be better than a "likely", if anyone knows.

Edited June 26, 2014 by AtariBaby

[NikLR 13,232]

http://www.cbp.gov/travel/cbp-search-authority/authority-search

[Not a Tailor 1,370]

I've got a password on my laptop (I'm a writer. No one gets my stuff but me) and there's nothing incriminating on my phone, though I will put a passpattern on it, I guess, before I go. I have NO indication that I might be working whatsoever. I am literally bringing clothes, cash, ID, toiletries, laptop and phone. I'm going for two weeks, have confirmation of my return flights printed off. I have no paperwork of any kind that indicates anything other than that I am coming back to Canada. I'm packing relatively light for a two week trip (8 t-shirts, undergarments, four pairs of pants, two dresses).

I honestly can't think of ANYTHING incriminating that I have. I'm just... nervous. This is only my third commercial flight ever!

[NikLR 13,232]

so yes.

https://www.eff.org/wp/defending-privacy-us-border-guide-travelers-carrying-digital-devices

[AtariBaby 17]

I'm aware of the concept of "authority to search". That doesn't address certain particulars. Anyway, dropping this discussion, personally, since it's going nowhere.

[NikLR 13,232]

or they can deny you entry. So.. why bother? My phone stays off and in my personal carry on when I am going through security and customs. As it SHOULD be. The laptop is off. I have a password on both and would provide it if asked. I have NOTHING to hide.

I'm aware of the concept of "authority to search". That doesn't address certain particulars. Anyway, dropping this discussion, personally, since it's going nowhere.

see next post. But yes...

Basically, they have the right to deny you entry for whatever reason they pick. Even if they're having a bad day. Stay on their good side an you're fine. Which the OP is planning to ANYHOW.

[Not a Tailor 1,370]

Definitely planning to be a good little visitor and not make anyone hulk out at me!

[NikLR 13,232]

I've got a password on my laptop (I'm a writer. No one gets my stuff but me) and there's nothing incriminating on my phone, though I will put a passpattern on it, I guess, before I go. I have NO indication that I might be working whatsoever. I am literally bringing clothes, cash, ID, toiletries, laptop and phone. I'm going for two weeks, have confirmation of my return flights printed off. I have no paperwork of any kind that indicates anything other than that I am coming back to Canada. I'm packing relatively light for a two week trip (8 t-shirts, undergarments, four pairs of pants, two dresses).

I honestly can't think of ANYTHING incriminating that I have. I'm just... nervous. This is only my third commercial flight ever!

you'll be fine! It's okay!

that's heavy packing for me... LOL But then I only take a carry on when i travel. If it doesn't fit in my rolling carry on or personal bag, I don't bother. That includes my DSLR. My husband takes up 3/4 of our closet with his clothes if that says anything.

You're bringing everything you need and you're not doing anything wrong and they have no reason to deny you entry. Just go with that, relax and have a great time!

[Not a Tailor 1,370]

Yeah, I've got a rolling carry on and my backpack (with snacks) and that's it. I'm an amazing packer, can pack all the things in a tiny bag! I'm meeting my in-laws for the very first time, so I wanted to make sure I had nice outfits to set a good impression.

I know, just relax, but easier said than done! I'm doing my best, but people in uniforms always make me nervous. Not because I've ever been arrested or anything, but because I was raised by hippies and uniforms are THE MAN! lol