Do you have a minor Criminal Offence, perhaps a DUI?
If you or one of your traveling companions have a minor criminal offence, here’s what you need to know:
How to Clear Your DUI:
U.S. citizens who have criminal convictions may be allowed to enter Canada, if they:
• have been confirmed "deemed rehabilitated" by a Citizenship and Immigration (CIC) officer at a Port of Entry; (pfft - Don't count on it. Use the steps below instead.)
• are eligible and have applied for rehabilitation, and have had their application approved;
• have obtained a Temporary Resident Permit; or
• have received a pardon, if the offence was committed in Canada.
Even with a minor criminal offence, it can be easy to cross the Border into Canada. Follow these simple steps and you will very likely be permitted access to Canada – even if you have a conviction for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol.
Criminal records
Individuals with criminal records wishing to enter Canada can apply for a waiver. This should be done a minimum of 3 - 4 weeks in advance of the intended visit and can take up to 6 months. It should be noted that Driving Under the Influence convictions are considered a criminal offense in Canada Individuals with criminal records without waivers can be refused entry.
Don’t Take A Gamble
Persons without waivers who have only DUI's or other less serious criminal convictions and have no criminal convictions in the past 10 years may be considered rehabilitated when they reach the border - BUT this is at the Canada Immigration officer's discretion. It is well worth the extra effort to apply for a waiver and eliminate the worry of being refused entry because the Immigration officer is grouchy.
Get Advanced Permission
If you want to be double sure you will not have any trouble crossing the border, you may wish to apply for a "Remote Area Border Crossing Permit". This may assist the Immigration officer in determining your admissibility to Canada since it requires normal background checks. More information regarding the "Remote Area Border Crossing Permit", please visit Additional Resources below.
Foreign nationals who have criminal convictions in Canada or abroad, should determine if they are inadmissible before travelling to Canada. Foreign nationals should also be aware that entry to Canada may be denied to persons who have committed any act that is considered to be an offense under Canadian laws, such as driving while under the influence of alcohol.
To find out more about Canadian laws, please visit Additional Resources below.
Perhaps your circumstance may benefit from the tips provided here
in the DUI Process Book
How to Clear Your DUI:
