The 2025 Alcoholics Anonymous International Convention will be held in Vancouver, British Columbia, from July 3 to 6, 2025. Thousands of AA members worldwide will gather for meetings, fellowship, and the celebration of sobriety. If you’re traveling from the U.S. and have a DUI on your record, Canadian entry laws could affect your ability to attend.
1. Why a DUI Can Prevent You From Entering Canada
Canada considers impaired driving a serious criminal offense, even if it’s classified as a misdemeanor in the U.S. A single DUI can make you criminally inadmissible, meaning border agents have the legal authority to deny your entry.
If you try to cross the border without addressing your DUI status, you may be turned away—even if you’re attending an event like the AA International Convention.
2. Criminal Rehabilitation: A Long-Term Solution
Criminal Rehabilitation is a formal application process that clears your past offense in the eyes of Canadian immigration.
Eligibility:
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At least five years must have passed since the completion of your sentence (including probation and fines).
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You must provide evidence that you are unlikely to commit another offense.
If approved, Criminal Rehabilitation allows you to travel freely to Canada, including for future AA events.
3. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): A Short-Term Option
If five years have not passed since your DUI sentence was completed, you may be eligible to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP).
A TRP is a short-term entry permit that allows you to enter Canada for a specific reason, such as attending the AA Convention.
To apply, you must:
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Show that your reason for travel is valid and time-sensitive
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Provide court documents and background checks
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Submit a personal statement explaining your recovery and involvement in AA
TRPs are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and approval is not guaranteed.
4. When to Start the Application Process
To attend the convention in July 2025, you should begin the application process as early as possible.
Recommended Timeline:
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Criminal Rehabilitation: Apply by June–September 2024 (6–12 months processing time)
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TRP: Apply by late 2024 at the latest (processing varies, often 3–6 months)
Waiting too long could result in not getting approval in time.
5. What You Need to Prepare
Whether applying for a TRP or Criminal Rehabilitation, you’ll need:
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FBI background check (or equivalent state check)
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Court documents showing the outcome of your DUI case
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Proof of completion of sentencing (including probation or community service)
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Personal statement outlining your recovery and AA involvement
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Letters of support, if available (e.g., from your sponsor or counselor)
These documents show Canadian officials that you are low-risk and committed to your sobriety.
6. Legal Support and Immigration Help
While it’s possible to complete these applications on your own, many people find it helpful to work with a licensed Canadian immigration lawyer. An experienced lawyer can:
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Help you gather the correct documents
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Review your application for accuracy
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Improve your chances of approval
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to attend the 2025 AA International Convention and have a DUI on your record, don’t wait. Whether you qualify for Criminal Rehabilitation or a Temporary Resident Permit, starting early gives you the best chance of crossing the Canadian border without issues.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
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We Can Help!
If you have any questions regarding attending the 2025 AA International Convention in Vancouver, Canada, with a DUI, 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 to 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.
