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For Americans with Criminal Records Travelling to Canada

If you are a Canadian with a criminal record and you hope to travel into the US (but not immigrate) you will need to apply for an I-194 waiver. I've provided a lot of information on this blog as a resource to hopefully aid in your process.

So what about those Americans who wish to travel to Canada who have criminal, DUI related or other convictions? Well, in order to visit Canada, one must apply for a "Minister's Approval of Rehabilitation" which can be obtained through many Canadian Consulates (here is one in Buffalo: http://geo.international.gc.ca/can-am/buffalo/visas/inadmissible-en.asp). The Minister's Approval will permanently remove the inadmissibility caused by conviction.

There is an interesting article I found here on The Plain Dealer (A Cleveland daily) which discusses the increased intolerance at both sides of the border. You can read the article here: What to expect going to Canada if you're an American with a record
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Comments

  1. AnonymousDecember 13, 2007 at 1:58 PM

    For travelling to other countries, what are the problems faced by americans for criminal recors like a minor possession charge?

    thanks

    ReplyDelete
  2. Ryan SmartyDecember 13, 2007 at 4:02 PM

    jon h - I think it depends on the agreement that the US has with the particular country. Canada has a unique relationship with the US where we share our criminal databases. I'm certain that not all other countries share this type of relationship. If you are concerned you should check with an immigration lawyer. One main point that I have learned through this process: whether you are heading in Canada; the US; UK; Germany; Japan or Timbuktu... never lie to the border officer. If they ask you if you have a criminal record, you will need to answer yes.

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownApril 17, 2014 at 4:57 PM

    Thank you for sharing this great information on Canadian immigration. I am very impressed your blog.

    US Waiver I-192

    ReplyDelete

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