Standing ‘Buy’ Canada: Why PAC is Putting Canada First, Even at a Cost
Despite a Potential Hit to its U.S. Waiver Services Market, PAC Remains Committed to Supporting Canada
by Pardon Applications of Canada (“PAC”)
The Growing Buy Canadian Movement
The recent tariffs introduced by Donald Trump on key Canadian industries have triggered strong government pushback and ignited a renewed movement among Canadians to buy Canadian, support local businesses, and even rethink travel across the border.
In short, Canadians are pushing back.
A surge of national pride and economic resilience is sweeping across the country. More Canadians are choosing local businesses over U.S. imports, rallying behind a Buy Canadian movement that extends far beyond policy debates. While governments negotiate retaliatory measures, individuals are making their own economic choices—right at the checkout counter.
As a proudly Canadian company, Pardon Applications of Canada (PAC) stands firmly behind this movement. Yes, it is true that PAC relies on a strong Canada-U.S. travel market for up to 40% of it’s business, however, that did not prevent CEO Chris Ketko from affirming that prioritizing national interests will come first for Pardon Applications of Canada—even if it comes at a cost.
“There are still many important reasons why Canadians need to enter the United States. PAC will continue to support those who require a U.S. Waiver to do so. But make no mistake—Pardon Applications of Canada fully supports the Canada First movement. We are facing unprecedented aggression from our big brother south of the border,” he said, adding “This is not the time to sit on the sidelines because we’re worried about sales.“.
Tariffs, Trade, and a Growing Divide
Trump’s latest tariffs on Canadian goods have struck a nerve. The Canadian government has responded with retaliatory measures, determined to shield local industries from economic fallout. Yet, beyond policy and diplomacy, a larger shift is taking place—one driven by Canadian consumers themselves.
The message is clear: Canadians are making deliberate choices. They’re buying local, reducing U.S. imports, and even canceling vacations. This is more than a political dispute—it’s a moment of national economic awareness.
“We are facing unprecedented aggression from our big brother south of the border…” — CEO Chris Ketko
But what about those who still need to travel to the U.S.? How will this shift impact Canadians who rely on cross-border access for work, family, or essential business?
What This Means for U.S. Waiver Applications
PAC works with thousands of Canadians and permanent residents each year to secure legal permission to enter the United States. Ketko, who also co-founded the private legal services firm in 2011, expressed that some clients have concerns—not just about the waiver process, but whether they should be crossing the border at all.
“Many of our clients worry that shifting U.S. policies will impact their ability to travel, but the reality is that Waivers remain a legal, reliable solution. For most individuals with a criminal record, it’s necessary,” he explained.
While some Canadians may choose to avoid U.S. travel, for many, crossing the border isn’t optional—it’s essential. Business owners, professionals, and individuals with family ties in the U.S. still need legal access, regardless of economic tensions.
For those who must enter the U.S., Waiver applications remain as important as ever.
How to Get a U.S. Waiver Even in Changing Times
If you’re wondering how to get a U.S. Waiver, the majority of the process remains intact despite trade tensions.
Applicants must:
✅ File a U.S. I-192 Waiver application—the official documentation required for entry.
✅ Submit biometrics—fingerprinting and background checks are mandatory.
✅ Build a strong case—proper supporting documentation and legal expertise matter.
✅ Submit electronically–applications are no longer accepted in person at border crossings.
✅ Attend a CBP interview–meet with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer after submitting your application.
The process can be complex, but Canadians can choose to attempt the application independently or work with a professional Waiver application service such as PAC.
How Canadians Can Take Action
Consumers play a critical role in Canada’s economic resilience. The government can negotiate trade policies, but individuals have the power to influence the economy with everyday choices.
✔ Choose Canadian-made products
✔ Support local businesses
✔ Stay informed about trade policies and their impacts
The future of Canada-U.S. trade relations is uncertain, but one thing is clear—Canada is worth standing by.
FAQ: How Trump’s Tariffs Affect Canadians & U.S. Waivers
❓ Why are more Canadians choosing to buy local right now?
With new tariffs on Canadian goods, many Canadians are making the choice to support local businesses instead of relying on U.S. imports. This movement is growing, not just as a reaction to policy changes but as a broader push to strengthen Canada’s economy and protect national industries.
❓ Do U.S. tariffs affect the U.S. Waiver application process?
No, tariffs do not directly impact the U.S. I-192 Waiver process. However, economic and political tensions may influence travel decisions, and some Canadians may rethink whether cross-border trips are necessary right now.
❓ Can Canadians still apply for a U.S. Waiver despite trade tensions?
Yes. Regardless of trade disputes, U.S. Waivers remain a legal pathway for Canadians with criminal inadmissibility to secure permission to enter the U.S. The process can be complex, but applicants do have the option of attempting to file on their own, or working with a professional Waiver application services firm such as Pardon Applications of Canada.
PAC’s Commitment to Canadians Who Still Need U.S. Travel
While PAC fully supports the Buy Canadian movement, Canadians still have legitimate and urgent reasons to travel to the U.S.
PAC’s role remains the same: to provide clear, expert guidance for those navigating the U.S. Waiver process—while also standing firm in our commitment to supporting Canadian businesses and national interests.
PAC will continue to support those who require legal entry into the U.S., advocating for a process that serves all Canadians, regardless of economic uncertainty.
🍁 For more information on U.S. Waivers, contact PAC:
📞 schedule a confidential phone call
📩 [email protected]
🌐 pardonapplications.ca
About Pardon Applications of Canada
Pardon Applications of Canada (PAC) is a leading Canadian firm specializing in Canadian record suspensions (Pardons) and U.S. Entry Waivers. Since 2011, PAC has processed over 1.3 million inquiries and applications from Canadians and residents seeking a fresh start. PAC was the first service firm in the industry to achieve A+ Accreditation via the Better Business Bureau (Ottawa) and currently maintains a 4.55/5 customer review rating — tops in the industry.
For more information, visit PAC’s official website.
