Enter US as tourist after recieving but before activating K1 Visa?

[kksoyle 0]

Hi,

My K-1 Interview is on February 25th. Assuming all goes well and I am approved, would I still be able to enter and exit the USA from Canada on March 3rd to 6th, without activating my K1? I plan to immigrate a few weeks after using the K1.

Would this be possible?

Thanks

[chrismorrison 96]

I had this very same question, but unfortunately, the K-1 is a one entry visa. Once you've made your POE, your 90 day countdown starts and your K-1 is void. My fiance wanted to visit for the 4th of July and come later in the summer-however, plans have no changed due to him more than likely having his visa issued before then.

[chiggins82 88]

When I was at my interview, another K-1 asked about this and they told him he could go to the US without activating the visa. They said to be very clear with the IO at the border and not to bring the envelope.... I have not done it myself, but I believe Canadians have been able to cross without activating the K-1 visa. I don't think this is the same experience as other countries though.

If it was me, I would contact the CBP at the POE you are planning and ask them specifically before trying. I would also ask them what happens if you go to the border/customs and they say no? Would they force you to activate it or would they allow you to turn around...

For me, I figured it wasn't worth the stress. I have enough going on! If we really need to see each other, I figure my fiance can just come to Canada.

[kksoyle 0]

After a bit more research it seems like it can work, but it's up to the border officer's discretion.

[canadian_wife 1,827]

This really seems to be Canada specific as it has happened during land crossings. I'd contact the POE you plan to cross at to verify that they will allow this - but yes it has happened

good luck

[baron555 934]

Hi,

My K-1 Interview is on February 25th. Assuming all goes well and I am approved, would I still be able to enter and exit the USA from Canada on March 3rd to 6th, without activating my K1? I plan to immigrate a few weeks after using the K1.

Would this be possible?

Thanks

Nope.....all existing visas are voided once the K-1 is issued. That MUST be used first.

[GabsUSA 19]

From what I understand, it seems as though you can ask to be allowed in to the US under the Visa Waiver Program... but the key would be to convince the CBP that you plan on leaving after your stay. I'd imagine any proof of strong ties would help your case, but it would be up to them if they will allow it or not.

Seems risky to me.

[canadian_wife 1,827]

Nope.....all existing visas are voided once the K-1 is issued. That MUST be used first.

Canadians do not travel on visas, further - many Canadians have done what the OP is asking about. It really seems to be land crossings for Canadian citizens

good luck

[NikLR 13,232]

From what I understand, it seems as though you can ask to be allowed in to the US under the Visa Waiver Program... but the key would be to convince the CBP that you plan on leaving after your stay. I'd imagine any proof of strong ties would help your case, but it would be up to them if they will allow it or not.

Seems risky to me.

Canadians don't use a visa waiver program.

~~organizer hat on~~

~~moved to Canada forum from K1 process and procedures as topic is regionally specific~~

[Texas22 50]

I guess it is possible, but why risk it? Can your fiance come to Canada instead?

[Flames9_RN 358]

Many have done it...but it really is all up to the POE officer......Just have a back up plan in case they say no..and if they do say no..don't be a jerk about it,lol All the best

[Chalandrae 32]

We called CPB about the same question, I was told I have to bring my packet unopened and clearly state I do not want to activate it. I have to go for a fitting in may and by then I should have my Visa, but we don't want to activate it before June/July.

My fiance is Calling USCIS today to get clarifications. I can tell you what they said later

[Flames9_RN 358]

We called CPB about the same question, I was told I have to bring my packet unopened and clearly state I do not want to activate it. I have to go for a fitting in may and by then I should have my Visa, but we don't want to activate it before June/July.

My fiance is Calling USCIS today to get clarifications. I can tell you what they said later

It does not really matter what they say or the POE officer you spoke to now......it will matter when u cross......Majority of k1'ers on here that have done it, have had no issues..... Just takes that 1 grumpy POE officer and his supervisor to ruin ur plans

[Ms Hogan 295]

Nope.....all existing visas are voided once the K-1 is issued. That MUST be used first.

Canadians don't require another visa to enter the U.S.

Edited February 6, 2015 by Ms Hogan

[VadnVince 24]

I believe that your passport will be connected to your K-1 Visa, once it's granted. So the scan at POE may flag your passport, making your status K-1 instead of "visitor."