About H1-B stamping at US consulates in Canada..help needed.

[kennedy85]

Hello everyone,

I have been a follower of this blog since long and I have a question regarding traveling to Canada for my first H1B stamping. I am currently working on OPT and my H1-B petition got approved. I am planning to go to Canada for stamping as I have been hearing about the process being simpler in Canada if working on EVC model.

If I am told that administrative processing is required (221g), can I ask for my passport and go to India as long as my case is still in pending status? I was wondering if I can go back to Canada and provide my passport for stamping, once my case status is approved.

Also, I am not much concerned about my employment details as I am concerned with an arrest record I had back in 2009. I was charged with Misdemeanor -B (Harassment) (State of Texas) but it was eventually dismissed based on deferred prosecution (admittance to a Misdemeanor - C which is basically equivalent to using foul language and 30 hours community service).

Do I need a multiple entry visitor visa to Canada in this scenario and is it easy to enter Canada on such a visa in quick succession (like within 3-4 weeks)?

Thanks

[gcjourney]

The processing time to apply and get a Canadian Visa is minimum 15-30 days. You can only apply via mail at Canadian Consulate in New York or L.A.

It is better to apply for a multiple entry but be ready to answer the VO at the Canadian Consulate why you would need a multiple entry.

Also its easier to get your visa stamped before leaving Canada.

[kennedy85]

@gcjourney - I wanted to not get stuck in Canada because as I mentioned, I have that Misdemeanor B arrest record and it might get delayed due to background check. Any idea what reasons I can give (for multiple entry visa) the VO at the Canadian Consulate? My aunt and uncle live near Ottawa and they are citizens there. Does this work well as a reason for multiple entry?

Also what about the immigration officer while entering Canada at port of entry? Do they buy the reason that I am re-entering Canada within a month or two to visit my aunt?

Thanks for the reply.

[gcjourney]

1) Yes you can mention that you would like to visit Canada again for tourism (as you most likely you dont have time during your visa stamping).

2) If your intention is only to visit your relatives Canada the officers should be fine with it.