Can a Person with a Recent Criminal Offence Travel to the U.S.?
We receive many calls from Canadians who cannot travel to the US because of an old criminal record. Often this prevents them from visiting family or friends or attending special events in the US.
If you have already been stopped at the US border, then you will require a US Entry Waiver or I-194 to re-enter. This application is complicated and time consuming and we often help people to prepare this documentation.
If you have not been stopped at the US border, it may be possible to obtain a Canada Pardon without the need to obtain a US Entry Waiver (I-194). Each file is unique.
Here is a letter we received from a client we recently helped to remove an assault charge with a Canada Pardon:
“After being sentenced I was ashamed and disappointed with myself for the actions that resulted in my criminal record. I was devastated on how it affected not only myself but all of my family members.”
“I had a number of employment opportunities that could not be pursued because of my inability to travel to the US and simply not wanting to disclose the fact that I had a criminal record.”
“My two children that resided with me were unable to see places like Disneyland, uncles, aunts and cousins that lived outside of Canada and the enjoyment of travel. All because of my unacceptable actions. To say the least, I felt horrible to have put myself and loved ones in this position.”
“As part of my sentence I had to take part in the John Howard Society anger management program. I took this very serious and came out of it with very valuable tools that applied to all aspects of my life. I am extremely grateful to have participated in that program.”
“When pursuing my pardon and going through the steps, I was amazed by the helpfulness and compassion I received in all correspondence with Pardons Canada.”
“Anxiously I waited for each and every step along the way and when I received the letter with my official pardon, words cannot describe the emotions I experienced. A huge weight was gone!”
“I immediately shared my joy with my children and family and used my experience to help my kids in a valuable lesson in a challenging time in their adolescence.”
“Thank you Pardons Canada for restoring my freedom and happiness.”
If you have any questions regarding this topic or about Pardons and US Entry Waivers email us at [email protected] or call 1-877-929-6011.
Pardons Canada undertakes all necessary steps and procedures for removing your criminal record, including: Pardons/Record Suspensions, Purges, Photograph & Fingerprint Destruction, and U.S. Entry Waivers.
