Originally published: December 1, 2016, Updated: April 3, 2024
US Entry Waiver applications must be started well in advance. A common mistake many people make is to wait until they have an invitation. Sometimes their family will book a cruise. Sometimes their spouse will ask them to get the Waiver so that they can finally take a vacation. We even hear from people with fantastic job offers. It’s only when the application starts that they realize they need more time.
US Entry Waiver Start process
First of all, you will need to get a certified criminal record from the RCMP. The wait time for this document is about 120 days or longer. Then you can start requesting your court records and police checks. Keep in mind that your application is dependent on the efficiency of the people holding your records. We will do everything we can to move the process along, but sometimes we have to wait.
Depending on the complexity of your case, this process can take around six months. Once you have your application compiled, you need to take it to an international airport or border crossing. Often you will need an appointment, but this does not take long to get. You will also have to pay $585 USD for the filing fee.
The Waiver approval process
The Customs and Border Protection Agency takes your application and forwards it to the Department of Homeland Security for a decision. This can take four to nine months. You will receive the waiver in the mail. Make sure you keep your address information up to date. Occasionally, your application will be returned for more information. We can help you avoid this delay by ensuring that the application is complete before you submit it.
In total, you should figure in about 12 to 18 months. If you do not have a waiver already, do not make any firm travel plans that may cost you money. If you are renewing your waiver, try to start the process six months before the current waiver expires.
In reality, getting a US Waiver fast is a matter of luck. Sometimes your waiver will take a year to process and sometimes you will receive it in four months.
AllCleared cannot speed up your application once it has been sent to the US government. There is no way to pay more to get them to prioritize the file and get your US Waiver fast. All applications are treated equally.
That said, there are some things you can do to make things go faster.
Get your waiver faster
Decide whether you want the standard or expedited service
An expedited service with AllCleared is a premium service. You will be entitled to express post or courier and will have a dedicated case manager. We understand that not everyone can afford the expedited service. Standard clients can rest assured that we are still on your case. If you are a standard client, the team will be working on your file and will continue to update you regularly.
Stay informed
A US Entry Waiver is a complex application. You will need to collect documents from many different places. Whether you are doing it yourself or working with AllCleared, there will be some things that require your attention, such as getting your fingerprints taken or getting reference letters.
Consider how much time you have
If you are thinking of compiling the application on your own, consider how much time you have in the day. You will need to understand the application, which has many steps. You will have to contact various offices during working hours. Sometimes you’ll go months without receiving the documents you requested and will have to follow up. Once you receive your criminal record from the RCMP, you may find you have forgotten the rest of the steps and have to go back to the research stage. Many waiver applicants post in online forums when specific problems come up. They have to wait for answers and then there is no guarantee that the information they receive is correct. With AllCleared your questions can be answered with a simple phone call.
Choose AllCleared
When you choose AllCleared, we will stay on top of your file so you can focus on things that matter like work and family. You’ll be able to avoid simple mistakes that could add months to the time it takes to process your file. Our system is automated, so steps aren’t forgotten and you can check in online through your private portal to find out the status of your file.
Can AllCleared get my US Waiver fast?
Our exclusive police partnerships allow us to process your application four months faster than the competition. The RCMP takes about four months to send your criminal record. During this time, other service providers will be in waiting mode. We’ll still be in working mode because we can request your other documents before receiving the record.
Looking to get started on your application? Check your eligibility for a US Entry Waiver today.