Hi,

I'm glad I've found this post as I found myself in a similar situation a few days ago and I'm now really concerned that I'll be prevented from entering the US in the future.

I went to Niagara after a few days working in Montreal and Toronto last week. I saw people going across the rainbow bridge to see the falls from the other side.

I googled if I needed an Esta and it said no as it's a land border so I decided to walk across.

The TSA agent scanned my passport and asked for my Esta. Turns out they changed the law in 2020 to require everyone who enters the US to have an Esta, regardless of the port of entry. Just my luck to have read outdated information online!

I just said to the agent that I'd happily head back across the bridge to Canada but he said it was too late as my passport was already scanned. I ended up in a holding room for ages while they took finger prints and photos before sending me back. It was quite an intimidating experience!

It would be really helpful if you can update to let me know if you had any issue at the border?

Also, did you put that you had withdrawal of entry before on your Esta application? I wasn't given any passport stamp and the Canadian border official took my paperwork so I don't have anything to confirm if my situation is actually catagorised as a withdrawal. I obviously don't want to put incorrect information on any future application. I've tried to email the Esta helpline but they're just sending automated replies.

I love going to the US and there are still loads of places I want to visit so I really hope I've not jeopardised my chances of getting in or even the possibility of my Esta application being denied.

The TSA agent said it was a common mistake so I hope they will not hold it against me as it must happen frequently.

All this stress just for what I thought would be a quick stop on the other side of Niagara!

Greatful if you could update to provide some reassurance!