If you have a criminal record in the United States or have been charged with an OVI, entering Canada may not be as straightforward as you’d think. Border officers have the authority to refuse entry to individuals with criminal records, making them inadmissible to enter Canada. However, KLM IMMIGRATION and our team of experienced attorneys are here to help you.
What is an OVI?
OVI stands for Operating a Vehicle Impaired, which is a criminal offense commonly known as driving a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs (DUI). An OVI conviction is a serious crime in the eyes of Canada, and can have important consequences on your entry.
How can you enter Canada with an OVI?
Canadian immigration authorities take impaired driving offenses seriously, and individuals with an OVI on their arrest record may be considered criminally inadmissible. Canada’s immigration laws aim to protect the safety and security of Canadian citizens and residents. As a result, they carefully assess the admissibility of individuals with a criminal history, including OVI convictions.
The steps to take to be able to go to Canada
The following steps can be taken to increase your chances of being allowed to enter the country:
- Eligibility requirements: To assess your eligibility, you can use the official Canadian government tool called the “Coming to Canada” wizard. It will ask you a series of admissibility questions and provide guidance on whether you are eligible for Canadian border agents.
- Apply for a Temporary Resident Permit: A TRP is a document that allows inadmissible individuals, due to criminal convictions, to enter the country for a specific duration. Applying for this temporary solution involves submitting an application to the government, paying the required fees, and providing supporting documentation, including details about your OVI conviction and any steps you have taken towards your rehabilitation.
- Apply for Criminal Rehabilitation (CR): If you have successfully completed your sentence and a period of time of at least 5 years has passed since then, you may be eligible to apply for Criminal Rehabilitation. This permanent solution removes your inadmissibility based on past criminal offenses.
- Consult an immigration attorney: Given the complexity of the immigration process, consulting a Canadian immigration lawyer experienced in criminal inadmissibility cases is highly recommended. They can guide you through the application process, help you gather the necessary documents, and provide advice tailored to your specific situation.
Don’t let an OVI or a criminal record hinder your plans to travel to Canada. Trust KLM IMMIGRATION to provide the professional assistance you need. Our dedicated team of Canadian immigration attorneys is committed to helping you overcome the obstacles and achieve a positive resolution. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards resolving your criminal inadmissibility concerns.
