Re-entering the United States after a brief stay in Canada can be a smooth process if you’re well-prepared and choose the right port of entry. We navigated this process at the Lyndon (Aldergrove) port of entry in June 2024, and here’s a detailed account of our experience, along with some insights into why Lyndon might be a better choice over the more popular Peace Arch.
Our Journey Back to the US
After five weeks of exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Banff, Jasper, and Whistler in Canada, it was time for us to return to the United States. Armed with a B2 tourist visa valid for five years and having completed our new I-94 online, we set out to cross the border.
Background on the B2 Tourist Visa
The B2 tourist visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States for travelers visiting the country for tourism, vacation, or visiting family and friends. It is valid for up to 10 years, allowing for multiple entries during this period. Each entry permits a stay of up to six months. For more information, visit the official US Department of State website.
Background on the I-94
The I-94 form is an arrival/departure record issued by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to track the arrival and departure of individuals admitted to the United States. Completing the I-94 online can expedite the process at the border. You can access the I-94 form and complete it online at the official CBP website.
Arrival at the Border
We opted for the Lyndon port of entry, partly due to its reputation for being less crowded than other entry points. As we approached, we were pleased to find a dedicated truck/RV lane with no line – a great relief, as border crossings can often involve long waits, especially at busier ports.
Upon reaching the border agent, we were asked a series of questions:
- What state and is the license plate number of the truck?
- Where are you from? “Australia.”
- Are you renting the vehicle? “No, we bought it in Florida.”
- Where have you been in Canada? “Banff, Jasper, and Whistler.”
- How long are you going to be in the US? “Five months.”
- Do you have an existing entry document? “No, our I-94 expired last month, and we completed a new one online.”
The agent then handed us a yellow “multiple inspections” slip with “status” circled, instructing us to pull over and go into the building. We parked and left our dog in the truck while we gathered our documents, including proof of travel, vehicle ownership, and our dog’s medical and export records.
Inside the Office
Inside the empty office, we were greeted by two friendly border agents. They asked the usual questions:
- Where are you going? “North Cascades National Park.”
- How long are you staying in the US? “Five months.”
- Where are you leaving from? “Los Angeles.”
- So, you are traveling with a camper trailer? “Yes.”
- Looks like you flew into Miami in December? “Yes.”
- And left for Canada in May? “Yes.”
After verifying our information, the agents informed us that we could stay until December 16, just to make sure to leave by then if we want to come back in. They returned our passports, and we headed back to our truck to calm an anxious dog before driving off.
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Why Choose Lyndon Port of Entry Over Peace Arch?
The Lyndon port of entry offers several advantages over the more popular Peace Arch crossing:
- Less Crowded: Lyndon is generally less busy, which means shorter wait times and a more relaxed atmosphere. This can be particularly beneficial for travelers with pets or in large vehicles like RVs and trucks.
- Truck/RV Lane: The dedicated truck/RV lane at Lyndon is a significant convenience, allowing larger vehicles to pass through more easily and quickly.
- Friendly Staff: Our experience with the border agents at Lyndon was positive, with friendly and efficient service that made the process smooth and stress-free.
- Location: For those traveling through the Pacific Northwest, Lyndon provides a convenient entry point that’s well-situated for access to destinations like North Cascades National Park. It serves as a primary entry into the Pacific Northwest from British Columbia and Vancouver, making it a strategic choice for many travelers.
Preparing for a Smooth Re-entry
To ensure a hassle-free re-entry into the US, consider the following tips:
- Complete I-94 Online: If your I-94 has expired, complete a new one online before arriving at the border. This can save time and streamline the process.
- Bring All Necessary Documents: Have all your documents ready, including proof of travel, vehicle ownership, and any necessary medical records for pets.
- Choose Less Crowded Entry Points: Opting for less busy ports of entry like Lyndon can significantly reduce wait times and make the experience more pleasant.
- Be Prepared for Inspection: Be ready to answer questions about your travel history, plans in the US, and any other relevant details.
Final Thoughts
Re-entering the US from Canada doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By choosing the right port of entry and being well-prepared, you can make the process smooth and efficient. Our experience at the Lyndon port of entry was positive, and we highly recommend it for fellow travelers with similar plans.
As we continue our journey, we’re looking forward to exploring North Cascades National Park and the many other incredible destinations the US has to offer. Safe travels, and may your border crossings be as smooth as ours!
By sharing our story, we hope to provide valuable insights and tips for fellow travelers navigating similar journeys. Happy travels!
