I will be traveling from Vienna to the US this summer. It's actually a return flight since I live in the US but the flight was booked separately from the original flight. I have a Canadian passport and a "green card". The problem I'm running into is that I am being asked by British Airways to apply for authorization to enter the US (where I live) because it appears I am flying one way into the US. Do you think I really need to apply for authorization throught the Visa Waiver Program or can I just show my "green card" and passport to be readmitted into the US?
Has anyone run into this situation out there? Thanks in advance for your reply.
Posted by
Freedonia
16303 posts
If you have a U.S. passport, then you are considered a U.S. citizen. Why do you need a green card?
Just show British Airways your U.S. passport. (I'll be you showed them your Canadian Passport and green card, right?)
Posted by
OP
Eugene
5 posts
I misspoke in my original post, I have a Canadian passport, not US.
Posted by
burlington
427 posts
go to the embassy to clear this up.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
4555 posts
I would call the airline and explain. Canadian citizens are exempt from the Visa Waiver program requirements, and BA should know that...especially since you've also got a green card. In addition, the Visa Waiver program is only for visitors from qualifying countries staying 90 days or less...that may be why they're concerned, since it's only a one-way flight. See what the airline has to say. But if they remain adamant, then you may still have to apply to keep them happy.....all the regulations in the world won't help if some officious SOB in Vienna prevents you from boarding your flight.
Posted by
OP
Eugene
5 posts
Thanks Norm,
I made some calls and I'll post this info for others in the same boat (or should I say plane)...
The Canadian Consulate in Seattle (206-443-1777) was very helpful. According to them, as long as I have my green card and passport I will be admitted back. She did suggest I also call the US Customs and Border Protection agency (877-227-5511). They confirmed the same and mentioned that the Visa Waiver Program is basically for tourists visiting the US for 90 days or less and wasn't something that pertained to my situation.
That's it, problem solved. Happy travels to all.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
4555 posts
Again, Ian....make sure British Airways is aware of all of this, in your specific situation. As I say, all the rules and regulations and advice in the world won't help if some BA employee in Vienna refuses to allow you to board because they don't think you have the proper documentation.
Posted by
Puyallup, WA, USA
881 posts
Hi, Ian. That's good news. I agree with Norm though. In my personal experience, British Airways tends to be a bit particular on travel documents, and not quick to let an idea go, if they get it in their head. Call them - the officious SOB's abound. lol