Planning to fly from a Canadian airport but have a DUI or other conviction? Learn about Canada’s inadmissibility laws, Temporary Resident Permits, and how to avoid travel disruptions.
Understanding Canadian Inadmissibility: DUI & Criminal Convictions
If you have a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or any criminal conviction on your record, you might be deemed inadmissible to Canada. This could prevent you from entering the country—even if it’s just to catch a flight from a Canadian airport.
Before booking your trip, it’s crucial to determine if your offense makes you inadmissible under Canadian immigration law.
Which Offenses Can Make You Inadmissible to Canada?
- Impaired Driving Offenses:
- DUI, OWI, OVI, DWAI, DWI, DUII, OMVI, and even wet reckless charges can make you inadmissible.
- In Canada, impaired driving is considered serious criminality, even if your sentence only involved a fine or license suspension.
- Other Criminal Convictions:
- Crimes like assault, fraud, or theft can also impact your admissibility.
Does the Date of Your Conviction Matter?
- Before December 2018:
If your DUI occurred before December 2018, it might be considered less serious under Canadian law. In some cases, you could be deemed rehabilitated. - Other Offenses:
Non-DUI convictions might also be treated differently based on how they compare to Canadian legal standards.
Are You Deemed Rehabilitated?
You might be considered deemed rehabilitated if:
- You have only one conviction that is less serious.
- Your sentence—including license suspensions, interlock devices, probation, or parole—was completed over 10 years ago.
This status means you could enter Canada without requiring special permits.
How to Apply for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
If your conviction is recent or you have multiple offenses, you’ll need to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) to legally enter Canada.
Steps to Apply:
- Collect Documentation: Court records, proof of completed sentence, and personal identification.
- Prepare the Application Package: Ensure it meets Canadian immigration requirements.
- Submit to the Canadian Consulate: For U.S. residents, this is usually the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles. Apply well in advance of your travel date.
Pro Tip: A TRP is often the fastest solution if your flight is scheduled soon.
Need Help With Canadian Admissibility?
Navigating Canadian immigration law can be complex. We strongly recommend consulting a licensed Canadian immigration attorney to:
- Determine your admissibility status.
- Assist with Temporary Resident Permit applications.
- Avoid last-minute travel disruptions.
Final Thoughts:
A past conviction doesn’t always mean you can’t fly through Canada, but it’s essential to understand the rules and take proactive steps if needed. Consulting with legal experts ensures a smoother travel experience.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
We Can Help!
If you have questions about Entering Canada with a DUI or a Criminal Record, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people work and live in the United States. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
