MyOMy

My friend. It used to be OKay if you have PR status and a valid BNO passport (3 months from expiry Date). I did it many many times. Check this link:

http://hongkong.usconsulate.gov/niv_need.html

Now after the 911, the Americans freak out.  It is now under the "discretion of the border officers" rule. That means the border officers has more power to turn you down at the border regardless of what you have. (I still remember one red neck borderman has no excuse of not letting me in but made me pay 5 bucks for visa to cross the border just for the fun of it when everybody do not need to pay and that was way before 911).

If I were you, I will try my luck.

But you have a strange situation here.  You landed on 1997, you still don't have a citizen status.  If I were the border officer, i will ask this question until you choke. Also, if you looks like Middle Eastener (including East Indian) or you need to face east and worship every now and then, I suggest you to talk to American Consulate in Vancouver.

MyOMy

My bad. Apologize. I should have been reading it more carefully. The link said :

"Now, Canadian Landed Immigrants, including BNO and Hong Kong SAR passport holders, will need a valid passport and visa to enter the United States. "

Looks like you need to, now.  

But I have travelled with a friend who had SAR and landed paper 2005, the borderman allow her to get an visa instantly for 5 bucks. But again, that is the "discretion of the border officer". Don't take my word for it because the border wait is normally in terms of " hours ".

MyOMy

bbs, pls refer my #9 post, you need a valid passport and a valid USA visa to get entry.

For the case of your girl, same, if she has a valid passport and a valid USA visa, she is okay.

Have a good trip.