Planning a trip to Canada involves more than just booking flights. For many travelers, past legal issues can create unexpected barriers at the border. One of the most common questions our firm receives is, “Can you get into Canada with a criminal record?”
Foreigners looking to get into Canada may be criminally inadmissible if they have been convicted of a criminal offense. The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) can refuse entry into Canada or the issuance of an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to someone who has a criminal record. However, three different options are available to overcome inadmissibility. So, can a US citizen with a criminal record enter Canada? Yes, but you will need to prepare ahead of time so that you can travel confidently and ensure your plans proceed without interruption.
What crimes make you inadmissible to enter Canada?
- DUI (including DWI, DWAI, reckless driving, etc.)
- Robbery
- Drug trafficking & drug possession
- Weapons violations
- Assault
- Probation violations
- Domestic violence
- Fraud
- ….
How Can You Get Into Canada With a Criminal Record?
Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
A temporary resident permit (TRP) allows individuals with criminal records to enter Canada temporarily for up to three years. When submitting your TRP application, you must provide compelling reasons why you should be allowed into the country. You can either submit your application when crossing the border or get pre-approved by applying directly at the Canadian consulate.
Criminal rehabilitation
Another way that a US citizen with a criminal record can enter Canada is by pursuing criminal rehabilitation. The process is a permanent way to overcome inadmissibility in Canada. Your application must prove that you have been rehabilitated and are no longer prone to committing criminal acts.
Legal opinion letter
This letter provides legal reasons as to why CBSA agents should grant you access to the country. The letter will explain that your offense was an isolated event that occurred a long time ago, or that it has been expunged or dismissed off your record. A legal opinion letter is prepared by a lawyer.
Get professional legal advice before trying to enter Canada with a criminal record
Before showing up in front of the Canadian Border Authorities, it is in your best interest to be well-prepared and have all the necessary documents. Contact KLM Immigration at 1-888-665-1390, or by e-mail for legal advice about how to travel to Canada with a criminal record. Your criminal record will be checked so that you can travel to Canada despite your criminal offenses.
To have more information, the Canadian Government has released an article about criminal convictions.
