Originally Posted by inapickle

Hi,

This post is in reference to the recent changes in Canadian law regarding dual citizens- we can no longer enter Canada on non-Canadian passports so we must enter Canada on a valid Canadian passport if flying by air.

I'm a dual citizen (CAN/AU) and I was planning on visiting Vancouver at the end of this year.

I gained Canadian citizenship following permanent residency when I was 11 years old but left Canada around then, and my parents never applied for a Canadian passport on my behalf. I haven't been there since I was 11.

Its been 12 years since then (currently in Australia), and we've moved houses a couple of times. I haven't been able to find my citizenship paperwork anywhere so I can't actually apply for a Canadian passport at the moment. I can't apply for a temporary passport either because I've never held a Canadian passport before as per the consulate. There isn't enough time to apply for a replacement certificate (since the processing time is 5+ months).

I'm eligible for special authorization but I'm worried I might be rejected since I've never held a Canadian passport so I don't want to risk it.

My only real option (if it counts as one), is to fly into Seattle and take a train up to Vancouver all on my Australian passport. Is this doable and allowed? I'm just scared that the border staff will flag me down and ask why I didn't just fly into Vancouver directly. Likewise, will I have any issues at SeaTac if I explain that the main purpose of my trip is to visit Vancouver?

I'm also brown and wear a headscarf so I also have an irrational fear that I'll be denied entry either into Seattle or Canada via land based on my appearance.

What's my best plan of action here?

Thanks!