ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
CanadaThe Way We Were
I haven't posted in this forum in a long time but it's nice to be back among fellow Canuckians. Lately I have felt like I am losing my "Canadian identity" so to speak, what with the naturalization process, the interview, and my oath ceremony in a couple of weeks. I'm excited about becoming an American but I have been here five years and miss Canada too. It's been a fun ride...
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-05-28 15:28:00
CanadaQuestions Regarding Having a Baby in Canada and bringing him or her to the US
Sorry to go off topic but I would gladly pay some taxes to the Canadian government to still be able to access Canadian health care. Citizenship should entitle someone to health care, not residency.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-05-29 10:47:00
CanadaHow have you changed?
Thank you for your replies everyone, they're very interesting.

Yes politics is definitely a blood sport here. I live in northern Indiana and I am in the minority view politically speaking around here. lol I don't like how the people here all think they're driving in Chicago. 9.9 out of 10 drivers are idiots. I hope to get a Masters degree here too. I have totally appreciated the Pell grant system they have here; I don't remember Canada having any such thing. My first year of college was paid for completely by Pell grant...I declined all loan offers. Wish I could do that every year but with rising income comes less Pell grant money. :)

One other thing I'm not used to is at my job (I'm a security guard) we wear badges. I did security in Canada before I came here and we weren't allowed to wear badges, so that is still strange to me. I actually think it's wrong to do but oh well.

Anyways, I hope to see more responses on here. have a great day all.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-05-29 10:40:00
CanadaHow have you changed?

I stopped saying "EH" as much... my friends and family back home point out I rarely say it anymore!


LOL I STILL say it a lot...but my family has noticed I'm picking up an American accent. They make fun of me.

My brother in law used to bug me about "when are you gonna get married and move down there". Now that I did it he's always crackin' jokes about me being a yankee. lol And he's HALF American himself.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-05-29 10:34:00
CanadaHow have you changed?
So how have you changed since moving to the United States or becoming a US citizen? Do you have new hobbies, new attitudes, still the same old same old?

I have gone to college and am transferring to Indiana University. I got to go see the President at a town hall thing. I've travelled. I've also developed new attitudes, such as adopting the belief in the right to bear arms to protect yourself because a criminal can kill you before the police get there to help. I've gotten my first fishing license and bought my first fishing rod since I was a little kid. I came from a large city and now live in a small city, and I've realized I like small town living better. I can enjoy the city but I can leave in minutes and be out in the country. I love this...and so I see that I have changed in many ways since coming here. How about you?
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-05-28 15:33:00
CanadaCDN Passport Expiring

As a Canadian who had a permanent resident card, I found it very surprising that the Canadian border agencies let you through without a passport. A passport is necessary for all travel outside the US. Your PR card is only used as proof of status upon returning to the US.

In short: keep your Canadian passport.


That is because your green card will show where you were born, thus signifying your citizenship. Since a Canadian citizen has the right to enter Canada, a green card showing you're a Canadian citizen is good enough to enter Canada. That, and I believe the states and Canada has an agreement to let Canadians use their green card since it is a land border crossing. I always used my green card; in fact if I remember correctly the Canadian customs site said that you can use your green card to enter Canada.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-06-26 09:52:00
CanadaAny VJers from South Western Ontario?

I'm from Windsor and moved to Texas and i'm lovin' it :) but i'll always miss home!!


Right now I just absolutely love this old song by Alabama that says "If you're gonna play in Texas..."

Love Windsor, but Texas is probably too durn hot and deserty for me.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-05-29 10:32:00
CanadaAny VJers from South Western Ontario?
I've been in the states for five years now but I'm from Windsor, Ontario.

hahahaha.... I used to live in Windsor. Went to school there.

I'm surprised there aren't a ton from Windsor on here. ;)


I'm another one from Windsor. :)
JoeCanukMaleCanada2012-05-28 15:36:00
CanadaThe Canuck EI Thread
QUOTE (flames9 @ Sep 24 2007, 11:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The do have to be able to get a hold of you to ensure ur looking for work!! You can thank all the idiots that just sit back and claim EI and don't bother looking for work. Thats one of the tricks for the slackers--they dont answer the phone or reply back via mail!!
Good luck on the appeal! I had to appeal mine as they deemed me unelgible for benefits ( i quit tghe military after 12 yrs) and I won. Best of luck


Thank you.

Well, of course they have to be able to get ahold of you. The point is, they didn't try as I gave them my phone nuimber and address. They tried to say that I didn't even give any contact info and it was right on the page I handed in. I also received something in the mail from them at this address. They never called me one time. I have an answering machine so they could have left a message. I will win.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2007-09-24 10:36:00
CanadaThe Canuck EI Thread
They are giving me a hell of a time. They cut off my benefits because they "couldn't get ahold of me", yet they sent me mail and I put my new address and phone number on the PAPER I handed in. I swear, someone there is an idiot and the more ####### that happens, the more I am beginning to like my new home. The Canadian government are a bunch of incompetent idiots.

I believe I should gte all the money that they owe me though so I am appealing. I have the law on my side. Wish me luck. Thanks. Good luck to you all.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2007-09-24 09:47:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionWas anyone NOT "touched" after biometrics?
QUOTE (john_t_03 @ Nov 28 2007, 12:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I've heard from several people that their application was "touched" right after biometrics (my AOS application was the same way). During my biometrics, the person administering it was distracted and several finger scans said someting like "no match", she ignored several of them. Anyway, I am just wondering if something is wrong or if there are others whose applications were not touched after biometrics.

Thanks!


I'm wondering if the "no match" had something to do with a criminal database or something because I saw that too. So far my application has not been touched either after biometrics but mine was last Wednesday. I guess I have to be patient a little while longer. Hang in there.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2007-11-28 12:42:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionDo you have to have an interview?
Good. good.gif Thank you.

Thanks for the info Mary.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2008-02-29 08:09:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionDo you have to have an interview?
When you lift conditions do you have to have an interview? I was blessed not to have to bother with an interview to get my green card but I'm just wondering if I have to go to one when the time comes to lift conditions.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2008-02-28 12:29:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionWork not accepting 2yrGC/10yrNOA1 as proof of employment auth
Does being a veteran of a foreign war entitle you to be exempt from all the bs?
JoeCanukMaleCanada2008-05-05 14:20:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionNot much evidence of 2 year marriage :(
QUOTE (Lona.C. @ Nov 5 2009, 02:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JoeCanuk @ Nov 5 2009, 02:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Darnell @ Nov 4 2009, 08:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JoeCanuk @ Nov 4 2009, 06:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I don't mean to hijack the thread but this troubles me. My wife had the house before I ever moved here and we would have had to refinance to get my name on it. It simply isn't going to happen. Also, no utility bills in both our names. We have car title, car insurance, she's the beneficiary on my IRA, we have things like car and furnace repair bills in our names and can get affidavits. Does anyone think we should be ok?



No refinance required. Go to the county courthouse, ask the clerk how to do it. It's a type of addendum, the mortgage company can be notified, if you desire, but it's NOTHING to do with the mortgage company.


Ok thanks for the tip Darnell. Much apppreciated.

QUOTE (Darnell @ Nov 4 2009, 08:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JoeCanuk @ Nov 4 2009, 06:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I don't know what it's like where you live but my wife has experienced a lot of grief trying to change names on utility bills. One of them is still in her previous marriage last name. It's not "simple"...at least it hasn't been for her.


Sounds tedious and painful. I am sorry, I don't live where you live. I had no issues getting it done, and my wife lives out of the country.

For me, it was a phone call. I know, there are variances all over the place, so I'm not knocking yer experience - but ... Sometimes GRIEF will bring SUCCESS, I've seen it happen !!


Yeah, they've given her a lot of problems. She just got sick of it. I'm glad it worked better for you.

Hi joe you can also include Joint Tax return , joint bank accounts ,Visa statements , health insurance ,
bills from doctor visits that show your adresse , anything you get in mail that shows your adresse
but I think you know that just wanted to trow that at you smile.gif


Hi Lona. Thanks. Yes, we are going to use our tax returns, joint bank account, etc. No health insurance as of yet. sad.gif

JoeCanukMaleCanada2009-11-06 14:32:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionNot much evidence of 2 year marriage :(
QUOTE (Darnell @ Nov 4 2009, 08:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JoeCanuk @ Nov 4 2009, 06:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I don't mean to hijack the thread but this troubles me. My wife had the house before I ever moved here and we would have had to refinance to get my name on it. It simply isn't going to happen. Also, no utility bills in both our names. We have car title, car insurance, she's the beneficiary on my IRA, we have things like car and furnace repair bills in our names and can get affidavits. Does anyone think we should be ok?



No refinance required. Go to the county courthouse, ask the clerk how to do it. It's a type of addendum, the mortgage company can be notified, if you desire, but it's NOTHING to do with the mortgage company.


Ok thanks for the tip Darnell. Much apppreciated.

QUOTE (Darnell @ Nov 4 2009, 08:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JoeCanuk @ Nov 4 2009, 06:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I don't know what it's like where you live but my wife has experienced a lot of grief trying to change names on utility bills. One of them is still in her previous marriage last name. It's not "simple"...at least it hasn't been for her.


Sounds tedious and painful. I am sorry, I don't live where you live. I had no issues getting it done, and my wife lives out of the country.

For me, it was a phone call. I know, there are variances all over the place, so I'm not knocking yer experience - but ... Sometimes GRIEF will bring SUCCESS, I've seen it happen !!


Yeah, they've given her a lot of problems. She just got sick of it. I'm glad it worked better for you.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2009-11-05 14:35:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionNot much evidence of 2 year marriage :(
I don't know what it's like where you live but my wife has experienced a lot of grief trying to change names on utility bills. One of them is still in her previous marriage last name. It's not "simple"...at least it hasn't been for her.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2009-11-04 19:36:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionNot much evidence of 2 year marriage :(
QUOTE (Darnell @ Nov 4 2009, 12:38 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Things I don't see in your list:
1. lease docs in both of your names or
2. a deed on a house in both of your names
3. utility bills in both names (gas, electric, cable tv, landline telephone )

Perhaps you already have those, but didn't think to include them?
These 3 'things' prove up a 'shared domicile'.

GOOD LUCK !


I don't mean to hijack the thread but this troubles me. My wife had the house before I ever moved here and we would have had to refinance to get my name on it. It simply isn't going to happen. Also, no utility bills in both our names. We have car title, car insurance, she's the beneficiary on my IRA, we have things like car and furnace repair bills in our names and can get affidavits. Does anyone think we should be ok?

JoeCanukMaleCanada2009-11-04 19:26:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?

You'll get a NOA1/Extension letter from USCIS which is as I said a government letter to your address.
I believe in " the more ammo the better". I wouldn't send it tho.


I'm not sure I understand you. I would not get the NOA1 until after I sent the paperwork.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-13 12:10:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?

Is it legal or illegal for gays to marry? It's illegal in California and therefore gays can't marry here. Well, actually, gays were able to get married in California just awhile ago, when the California Supreme Court declared a prohibition of same sex marriages unconstitutional. In other States of the Union gays still can get married though. The reason this is the case, is the interpretation of constitutional law. It's almost like interpreting the Bible and there is often no general agreement among even the most experienced scholars. Throw abortion and gun ownership for non-citizens into the same pot.

Hence, eventually the US Supreme Court will make a decision and override State law, and the decision is partially dependent upon who are the judges are. The same is pending regarding the 2nd Amendment eventually. And if they interpret the law in a way that makes your Indiana gun permit worth as much as used toilet paper, the sh*t hits the fan.

My point was, and still is: why taking any chances because of an address alone?


I see what your point is but I don't agree. It is a government issued document, hence it is legal. If any judge interprets the law differently it will not apply to me. They cannot retroactively deport me for obtaining a government issued document that was legal. If they tried, then the sh*t WOULD hit the fan.

Are you then implying that we as LPRs do not have any rights granted in the Constitution? If I don't have the right to a firearm permit then perhaps you don't have the right to free speech. No judge is going to MISinterpret this matter because they cannot. An LPR has every right that a US citizen has except they cannot vote or become president, or commit a serious crime. A legal firearm permit in my possession is not a serious crime and the federal government has plainly stated this. There is no room for misinterpretation or confusion among "scholars".

PS Whether or not I included a copy of the permit in my application would not change the fact that I have one. And the government knows it.

Edited by JoeCanuk, 13 January 2010 - 12:08 PM.

JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-13 12:07:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?

Uh, Bob - he knows he can't vote.

It is also legal for an LPR to own a firearm, as long as there is no state/local law against it.


Even says so in the USCIS M-618 pamplet they give LPR's (page 8)



Thank you.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-12 23:16:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?

You do understand that voting is prohibited for LPRs, correct? If you voted, you would lose your LPR status, be deported, and be banned for the US for the rest of your life.

There is some serious discussion going on among constitutional scholars, people who know more about the constitution than you, me, your wife, my wife, and all our children combined, and according to those super smart experts it is not clear whether the second amendment applies to non-citizens, LPRs included. Just google "Second Amendment non citizens" and you can spend a week reading this.

If non-citzens are indeed not allowed to bear arms, then owning a firearm is a firearm violation. Firearm violations, just like drug-related and prostitution-related offenses (child porn included). make an LPR deportable with a lifelong ban attached. For that reason, immigration attorneys clearly advise LPRs not to touch any gun, not even with a hunting permit and a gun permit.

It's totally up to you whether or not you want to use it, but if you do, there's no help for you. You might as well vote. They don't ask for proof of citizenship there either. Always remember: not knowing something doesn't count as an excuse. "I'm sorry, Detective, I didn't know it's illegal to kill somebody." And assuming something is legal, doesn't count either: "I'm sorry, your Honor, I truly assuming it's legal for me to own a gun."

Good luck to you.


Bob, where did I say that I could vote? In fact, I said that I could not. Now, despite what constitutional scholars may THINK it IS legal in Indiana for an LPR to get a firearm permit. I HAD to prove my immigration status because I am not a citizen. I had to show my green card, etc. I got my permit from the state police, not a cracker jack box.

I find many of your posts useful and well-informed but I'm sorry, you're just not very well-informed on this matter...at least when it comes to the state of Indiana.

PS I do not own a firearm. I got my permit for the job that I had...before recession downsizing. lol

Edited by JoeCanuk, 12 January 2010 - 11:15 PM.

JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-12 23:13:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?

I agree.

Good luck to you!


Thank you very much. :thumbs: Thanks everyone.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-12 14:31:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?

Looks like you already applied to ROC?
Your NOA1 shows your address for one and is government issued!!


No, I'm sending my application out today. I see how you miunderstood. I was eligible to send it in November but didn't have the funds.

Edited by JoeCanuk, 12 January 2010 - 01:23 PM.

JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-12 13:23:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?

Does it have both of your names on it? Otherwise, not sure what the purpose of it would be.


No, just mine. I thought it would be one more government issued document to include which shows my address.

I wouldn't... unless it is your only piece of evidence :P
If you have enough evidence, then I would ignore this unless it has both your names on it.


LOL one would need a prayer if it was their only evidence eh? No, I think I have enough evidence; as I said in my other reply I thought it would be useful because it's one more government issued document with my address on it.


There is some serious discussion whether or not a LPR is allowed to own a gun, permit or not. If you need some credible source, I'll dig it out for you, but for the purpose of your question my answer is simple: are you out of your mind?

Why not sending the voter's registration card you received from the US Government instead?


Bob, I obtained my permit from the state of Indiana because I am a legal permanent resident. I would have been in trouble if I said I was a citizen. You're welcome to dig out a credible source for me but I think the state of Indiana is fairly credible.

I do not have a voter's registration card. That would be illegal.


Discussion? There is no discussion: it is allowed in most (if not all) states.


Thank you. It definitely is allowed in Indiana at least.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-12 13:19:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionHas anyone ever used this for evidence?
Has anyone ever included a firearm permit in their collection of evidence for the I-751? It has my address and it's government issued so I guess it would be ok. What do you think?
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-11 15:23:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionApplication for Removal of Conditions has been approved.
Congratulations to you two.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-01-13 12:18:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionAre they struggling?

Get that passport renewed - how were you going back to Canada without an active passport?


With my green card. Permanent residents aren't required to have a passport to go to Canada or to come back to the United States. As long as you have your green card (which shows citizenship) you're good to go.


Also, LonaC...thank you for the link to that thread.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-03 10:40:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionAre they struggling?

You can't get the stamp if your passport is expired. I only know this based on cases which I overheard while we were waiting for a stamp in my husband's passport for the same reasons. We did it before the biometrics appointment, but I suppose it depends on what facility you are going to.


Oh well. Looks like I won't be starting any new jobs anytime soon. Or going to visit my family. One would think the stupid NOA would have been delivered.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-02 19:00:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionAre they struggling?

I think so...
You can get a I-551 stamp in your passport that would extend your GC for 1 year (similar to the NOA letter).


Do you know if I can still get the stamp if my passport is expired? Do I get it at the biometrics appointment?
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-02 18:51:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionAre they struggling?
Anyone here think USCIS is struggling with the sending out an NOA concept? My file was accepted at CSC on January 14, and still no NOA. Just got the biometrics letter yesterday but that does't help you work or travel does it?
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-02 18:37:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General Discussiondoes this means our case is approved.............
That is insane. But congratulations. :thumbs:
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-18 18:25:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionNO NOA YET.......
I know how you feel. Sent my application January 12 and had biometrics on February 9. As of today, still no NOA.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-18 18:16:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionBiometrics letter

Hi Joe I would talk to kathryn about it
as far as I know you can download the passport renewal form on line and send it in your self ,
you dont have to go to the nearest consulate ,
but like I said i would talk to Kathryn she posted something about the stamp and the I 94 not to long ago
when does your passport expire ??


Thanks Lona. I have an application for a new passport ready. Just have to have the money for it. It expired a while ago.

Isn't it time to hear something from OP? :whistle:


My apologies. Haven't been around for a few days.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-22 12:08:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionBiometrics letter

The NOA 1 is the proof your status has been extended for a year. If you don't have it, make an Infopass to get the I-551 stamp - that is your best proof if no NOA1 arrived.


I see. My passport is expired though and I wouldn't have the foggiest idea where to go.

Isn't your stamped biometrics letter proof of your status too though? Like I said, it was sufficient for unemployment.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-18 18:27:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionBiometrics letter
Does anyone know if the biometrics letter is sufficient proof when starting a new job or coming back into the United States? It was sufficient proof to prove my alien status in regards to unemployment benefits.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-18 18:18:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionRemoving Conditions need your help and opinion on GC expiration

You should have received your NOA1 (which states the PR/Green Card status has been extended by 1-year) by now. This is your proof of legal presence in the US which you'll no doubt want to have on hand.

I would certainly call USCIS (could be an easy task, but I have my doubts about how far that call would take you) or make an infopass appointment. You should definitely follow up on that extension letter (NOA1).


This could be a difficult task. The ONLY way I was able to talk to a human being was to select the "changing your address" option. lol I had to tell them I haven't moved, I just have a complaint and want my darn NOA. Which hasn't arrived yet. Good luck.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-22 12:27:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionGetting through to USCIS
I like how they tell you how you can get a live person. lol

What I did was just use the "changing address" option and that connected me to someone. Just told them I wasn't moving.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-23 22:30:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionJAN 2010, FILERS
Card production ordered 3/8/2010. :dance:
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-03-08 23:27:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionJAN 2010, FILERS
Sorry, lol. The receipt date was 1/14/10.
JoeCanukMaleCanada2010-02-24 00:12:00