Can a Person with a Recent Criminal Offence Travel to the U.S.?
Each day we receive calls from Canadians who wish to enter the US for any number of reasons including:
Visiting family
Business meeting or conference
Sports or entertainment event
Disney with children
Cruise or leisure travel
Educational purposes (seminar, school)
Work training
If you have a criminal record in Canada, you may be refused entry at the US Border.
If you are refused entry at the US border, you will require a US Entry Waiver or I-194 to re-enter the United States.
If you have been questioned at the US Border, but the customs agent let you in, you may not require a US Entry Waiver. Every file is different and often it depends on the mood of the customs agent. However, if you have been questioned by a US customs officer and then let in, you will need the right documents in order to cross the border next time without being hassled.
If you have a criminal record but have NEVER been refused entry to the US, you may not require a US Entry Waiver or I-194. However, you will require a Pardon or File Destruction first to remove your criminal charges, then you may be safe to enter the US depending on the severity of your criminal charges.
We receive many calls from Canadians who want to be safe to travel to the US without the worry of being turned away at the US border. Often, they have never been refused or have never gone to the US, but fear that their criminal record will automatically mean they cannot enter.
The same also applies to people who have been charged with a criminal record but have not been convicted. This includes criminal charges that have been dismissed, stayed, withdrawn, absolute or conditional discharged.
It is important for you to understand your options before making an application that may or may not be necessary in your specific case.
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.
