Unfortunately, no matter what shape your life is in now, having a criminal record for a DUI no matter how long ago this conviction occurred can make it difficult to travel to different countries. For example, Canada will not let you enter normally if you have a conviction for a DUI, while the United States may let you enter depending on the circumstances. Regardless, it is not worth to risk to try to enter the United States anyway because being denied entry can be extremely inconvenient. But if you do have a criminal record for DUI, what can you do?
Applying for a United States Waiver of Inadmissibility
Even someone who has a criminal record can enter the United States with a waiver of inadmissibility, which is a special document that you must apply for. This document lasts about five years and needs to be shown to customers and border officers whenever you enter the country.
United States waivers of inadmissibility are not easy to obtain. The United States will need to determine if there is a risk of harm to society should you enter the country, the seriousness of your violations and why you want to enter the United States.
In order to consider all of these things, the immigration officials will require an RCMP certificate, local court records, information about your ties to Canada, character references and more in addition to the standard waiver application forms. There is then a six to nine month wait for processing.
Are You Inadmissible to Canada?
If you want to apply for a United States waiver or you are not sure if you are inadmissible to Canada, please contact our immigration law firm. We are here to help you!
President & CEO
Michael Niren
Mr. Niren is CEO of VisaPlace LLC and the President and Managing Partner of VisaPlace Legal Canada, an immigration law firm based in Toronto, and VisaPlace Legal US a law firm registered in The District of Columbia, USA. Mr. Niren is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Canadian Bar Association’s Citizenship and Immigration Section, American Lawyers Association, and an Associate Member of the American Bar Association.
