Canadian customs questioning a "frequent" visitor

[taway_pnk]

Looking for a little advice please - I’m a US citizen and in 2023 I started flying to Canada for the escort scene. My trips have been 5-10 days each in mar, may, aug, sep and oct. So that’s a total of 5 trips this year (3 times to MTL and 2 to TOR), and the frequency has increased to once per month over the last 3 months.

I’m itching to fly up to Montreal again this week. But the more I go the more i get concerned about Canadian customs questioning upon arrival. To be clear I haven’t actually had problems thus far. I’ve always answered “general tourism” for the reason of visit. Other than being asked where I’ll stay I really haven’t gotten questioned much at all. But now that my trips are getting more frequent and this would be the 4th visit in 4 months... I’m concerned that an agent will basically not buy the “general tourism” and demand to know why I’m flying up so often.

I have US global entry (which makes clearing US customs a breeze when flying back) but I unfortunately don’t have Nexus, so I have to go through the general line with everyone else at Canadian customs.

Questions:

• Generally speaking, does visiting every month for a week at a time enough raise red flags for Canadian customs?
• If I do get grilled by an agent on the reason for the repeated visits, what can I say that’s more effective than “I enjoy being a tourist here”?
• I stay at nice 4-5 star hotels each time and bring a print out of my reservation just in case. I also get a ticket to some venue/show that week and print that out as well. Have never had to show these, but figure it can’t hurt to have. Any other little tips along those lines that may help if I draw a predatory agent?

Cheers

 

[Obvio-0bvio]

Looking for a little advice please - I’m a US citizen and in 2023 I started flying to Canada for the escort scene. My trips have been 5-10 days each in mar, may, aug, sep and oct. So that’s a total of 5 trips this year (3 times to MTL and 2 to TOR), and the frequency has increased to once per month over the last 3 months.

I’m itching to fly up to Montreal again this week. But the more I go the more i get concerned about Canadian customs questioning upon arrival. To be clear I haven’t actually had problems thus far. I’ve always answered “general tourism” for the reason of visit. Other than being asked where I’ll stay I really haven’t gotten questioned much at all. But now that my trips are getting more frequent and this would be the 4th visit in 4 months... I’m concerned that an agent will basically not buy the “general tourism” and demand to know why I’m flying up so often.

I have US global entry (which makes clearing US customs a breeze when flying back) but I unfortunately don’t have Nexus, so I have to go through the general line with everyone else at Canadian customs.

Questions:

• Generally speaking, does visiting every month for a week at a time enough raise red flags for Canadian customs?
• If I do get grilled by an agent on the reason for the repeated visits, what can I say that’s more effective than “I enjoy being a tourist here”?
• I stay at nice 4-5 star hotels each time and bring a print out of my reservation just in case. I also get a ticket to some venue/show that week and print that out as well. Have never had to show these, but figure it can’t hurt to have. Any other little tips along those lines that may help if I draw a predatory agent?

Cheers

I not an immigration expert, but I can offer some general advice based on the information you provided. It's important to note that each customs officer has discretion in determining whether to allow entry, so the following suggestions may not guarantee a trouble-free entry:

1. Frequency of visits: While visiting Canada monthly for a week at a time may not necessarily raise red flags on its own, it could potentially attract attention if it becomes a pattern. The key is to ensure you have a legitimate reason for your visits and are able to demonstrate it convincingly.

2. Reason for visits: If questioned about the frequency of your visits, it may be more helpful to explain that you have developed a growing interest in Canadian culture, tourism, or specific attractions in Montreal or Toronto. You could mention specific places you have visited previously, or express an interest in exploring different areas in Canada.

3. Supporting documents: Bringing printouts of your hotel reservations and event tickets is a good practice and may help demonstrate that you have planned activities during your stay. Additionally, you may want to consider keeping receipts from your previous stays or any other evidence that supports your claim of being a regular tourist.

4. Confidence and honesty: Maintain a confident demeanor when answering any questions. It's important to be honest and provide consistent information to avoid suspicion. Being overly defensive or evasive may raise further doubts. Remember, the goal is to demonstrate that your visits are genuine and not for any illegal purposes.

5. Stay within legal limits: Make sure to respect the terms of your visa or entry requirements, such as the maximum duration of stay allowed, and avoid any activities or behaviors that may be considered illegal.

Perhaps, you could consult with an immigration lawyer or expert for personalized advice. They can provide you with accurate and updated information on cross-border travel regulations.

Good luck buddy!

 

[IamNY]

Looking for a little advice please - I’m a US citizen and in 2023 I started flying to Canada for the escort scene. My trips have been 5-10 days each in mar, may, aug, sep and oct. So that’s a total of 5 trips this year (3 times to MTL and 2 to TOR), and the frequency has increased to once per month over the last 3 months.

I’m itching to fly up to Montreal again this week. But the more I go the more i get concerned about Canadian customs questioning upon arrival. To be clear I haven’t actually had problems thus far. I’ve always answered “general tourism” for the reason of visit. Other than being asked where I’ll stay I really haven’t gotten questioned much at all. But now that my trips are getting more frequent and this would be the 4th visit in 4 months... I’m concerned that an agent will basically not buy the “general tourism” and demand to know why I’m flying up so often.

I have US global entry (which makes clearing US customs a breeze when flying back) but I unfortunately don’t have Nexus, so I have to go through the general line with everyone else at Canadian customs.

Questions:

• Generally speaking, does visiting every month for a week at a time enough raise red flags for Canadian customs?
• If I do get grilled by an agent on the reason for the repeated visits, what can I say that’s more effective than “I enjoy being a tourist here”?
• I stay at nice 4-5 star hotels each time and bring a print out of my reservation just in case. I also get a ticket to some venue/show that week and print that out as well. Have never had to show these, but figure it can’t hurt to have. Any other little tips along those lines that may help if I draw a predatory agent?

Cheers

All of this goes away when you get a NEXUS card. I used to deal with the bullshit in gen pop. Stick to your story, don’t lie (just don’t offer all of the details), stay calm, answer their questions with simple answers and you shouldn’t have any issues. Last but not least, nuke your phone and all electronics. That’s the one area that if they really want to see what your up too can be damaging.

 

[Biggie Smalls]

I go thru the same shit, due to an expunged arrest and charge from my college days. (Theft) I stole a laptop I needed for school. Not the worst crime ever, but I got pinched and made restitution. 25 years later, the Canadians still make me go thru extended screening every time I visit. Frustrating? Yes. My own fault? Yes.

 

[Tor1393]

Be honest with immigtation. Since hobbying in Canada is legal,, I wouldnt be afraid to mention it, but I wouldnt volunter it either.
they really want to make sure that you are Not working in Canada
youll be fine

 

[Rosie Sparkles]

Be honest with immigtation. Since hobbying in Canada is legal,, I wouldnt be afraid to mention it, but I wouldnt volunter it either.
they really want to make sure that you are Not working in Canada
youll be fine

Humm... so sorry to cut it to you but no, it is not legal.

 

[Giselle Montreal]

Humm... so sorry to cut it to you but no, it is not legal.

Indeed, a client who is exchanging money for sex is not just illegal but criminal.

 

[Tor1393]

OK>. I am sorry and stand corrected. thank you
tor
PS: i just read the new law adopted n 2014. Seems a bit more complicated than it used to be.
be safe everyone

 

[taway_pnk]

2. Reason for visits: If questioned about the frequency of your visits, it may be more helpful to explain that you have developed a growing interest in Canadian culture, tourism, or specific attractions in Montreal or Toronto. You could mention specific places you have visited previously, or express an interest in exploring different areas in Canada.

Yeah I've debated whether it would be a better approach to say that I'm exploring different areas each time or to actually go the other way and become a member at some specific cultural venue (something like Place des Arts - though they specifically don't do memberships so I'd need to find something else). That way I can point to it each time. Any thoughts on that?

I don't want to go overboard, but drawing a hostile customs agent who demands to know why I'm visiting every month is not that far-fetched right? Scanning over past threads it seems like most harassment of other members here has happened at drive-in border checkpoints and not at YUL, but still. Need to be prepared.

 

[Rebaynia]

Yeah I've debated whether it would be a better approach to say that I'm exploring different areas each time or to actually go the other way and become a member at some specific cultural venue (something like Place des Arts - though they specifically don't do memberships so I'd need to find something else). That way I can point to it each time. Any thoughts on that?

I don't want to go overboard, but drawing a hostile customs agent who demands to know why I'm visiting every month is not that far-fetched right? Scanning over past threads it seems like most harassment of other members here has happened at drive-in border checkpoints and not at YUL, but still. Need to be prepared.

I don't know how much they check into things. But couldn't you even just say you are meeting a long distance gf you met online, who might be married even... who knows. I have heard of people going to the states just to go shopping, does it really matter why in the end? Aren't they more just happy your pouring your hard earned income into their economy?
Places like the botanical gardens do have memberships, and in summer there's la ronde, just say your there for these type of getaways. No? There is always something happening in montreal or toronto, some kind of festival, if your so worried just check up what is happening during that week your heading down. Theres even winter festivals that happen, to try and attract tourists, or to bring up spirits of the locals during the cold dark winter months.

Like i said i don't know how much they check into things. Personally i haven't really gone anywhere to know. And haven't crossed the border myself.

 

[Biggie Smalls]

I always say Im coming for F1, or NHL, or any of the festivals or shows in town that line up w/my dates. Easy peasy

 

[Jaxan]

Do custom agents have the right to confiscate and go through your phone? I have never heard or had this happen to me.

 

[xooxxo]

Do custom agents have the right to confiscate and go through your phone? I have never heard or had this happen to me.

You can refuse, but then they'll definitely deny you entry...

 

[IamNY]

Do custom agents have the right to confiscate and go through your phone? I have never heard or had this happen to me.

Yes they do, 100%, at least on the Candadia side.

 

[IamNY]

Be honest with immigtation. Since hobbying in Canada is legal,, I wouldnt be afraid to mention it, but I wouldnt volunter it either.
they really want to make sure that you are Not working in Canada
youll be fine

This is probably the worst advice I've ever seen given on MERB. You can't be serious. If you need to have an excuse mention a hockey game, the casino, anything other than seeing escorts.

 

[taway_pnk]

Get nexus.

Don’t mention escorts and clear your internet history and text messages of escort activity.

Unless you are like 20-30 years old, if you get grilled by secondary screening don’t hesitate to say you are eventually contemplating the possibility of retiring in Canada or exploring employment possibilities there, so you make many trips to explore the culture and see if you could fit in and like it. So you make a trip there whenever possible.

You might say your plans will accelerate if that damn Trump wins again. It makes him useful, at least in terms of getting laid.

Yeah thanks, Nexus would be the permanent solution to this problem, but I've been wary about the interview during application. Their website says to expect a half hour interview. Is that not a way to ensure getting grilled by these agents? Nexus is specifically for frequent US-Canada crossings right, realistically for businesspeople or those with relatives. I wouldn't think that "I enjoy being a tourist in Montreal" would go over well in a probing interview.

Maybe I'm wrong though? Can anyone who has gone through Nexus interviews shed some light?

 

[xooxxo]

Yeah thanks, Nexus would be the permanent solution to this problem, but I've been wary about the interview during application. Their website says to expect a half hour interview. Is that not a way to ensure getting grilled by these agents? Nexus is specifically for frequent US-Canada crossings right, realistically for businesspeople or those with relatives. I wouldn't think that "I enjoy being a tourist in Montreal" would go over well in a probing interview.

Maybe I'm wrong though? Can anyone who has gone through Nexus interviews shed some light?

You still have to talk to an officer, even with Nexus. Although usually it's quick and you get to skip the line so it's still worth it.

If you already have Global Entry the interview is easy... My "interview" was the US guys taking a picture for the card and the Canadians explaining how to use Nexus when crossing the border.

 

[neverbored]

My US friends come up pretty frequently. They just say: hockey, fine dining, etc... which isn't far from the truth.
They often will just say Canada = -30%, safe and good to tourists. Cheaper and better than going to Europe or going to the West coast.

 

[Obvio-0bvio]

Yeah I've debated whether it would be a better approach to say that I'm exploring different areas each time or to actually go the other way and become a member at some specific cultural venue (something like Place des Arts - though they specifically don't do memberships so I'd need to find something else). That way I can point to it each time. Any thoughts on that?

I don't want to go overboard, but drawing a hostile customs agent who demands to know why I'm visiting every month is not that far-fetched right? Scanning over past threads it seems like most harassment of other members here has happened at drive-in border checkpoints and not at YUL, but still. Need to be prepared.

It's understandable to want to be prepared for questioning by customs agents and provide them with a reasonable explanation for your frequent visits to Canada. While it's not common to encounter hostile agents, it's helpful to have a well-thought-out reason for your visits.

Exploring different areas each time can be a valid explanation, as it shows your curiosity for Canadian culture and various attractions. This approach allows you to express your interest in experiencing different parts of the country, including Montreal and Toronto. You can mention specific places you have previously visited and express your desire to continue exploring Canada's diversity.

Becoming a member at a specific cultural venue, like Place des Arts, is also a good idea if you can find one that offers memberships. It provides legitimacy to your frequent visits and gives you something concrete to mention when questioned. If Place des Arts doesn't offer memberships, you can search for other cultural venues in Montreal or Toronto that do. Alternatively, you can mention attending events or exhibitions at various cultural venues during your visits.Maybe you could indicate that you are fans of Montréal canadian and that you are interested in attending a hockey game. However, ensure you are aware of the team's schedule and if they will be playing at their home arena. In case they ask important questions such as who your favorite player is or if you can name a couple of hockey players, make sure you know a few names. The same strategy applies if you are visiting Toronto; you can mention that you are a fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs. This would be an excellent choice.

While encountering a hostile customs agent is rare, it's always prudent to be prepared and have a well-thought-out explanation for your visits. By emphasizing your growing interest in Canadian culture, tourism, or specific attractions, and providing specific examples or mentioning memberships at cultural venues or you are a hockey fan, you can demonstrate a genuine reason for your frequent visits.

 

[Flabert]

I go thru the same shit, due to an expunged arrest and charge from my college days. (Theft) I stole a laptop I needed for school. Not the worst crime ever, but I got pinched and made restitution. 25 years later, the Canadians still make me go thru extended screening every time I visit. Frustrating? Yes. My own fault? Yes.

When you stole the laptop did you scream “gimme the loot”!

Biggie Smalls song