Did you know that a DUI, even one that happened many years ago, can make you inadmissible to Canada and denied entry at the border? This can be a very inconvenient situation, especially if there is an important reason for you to enter Canada or you have made plans in Canada with others. 
A criminal record for DUI in particular is something that Canada takes very seriously, and generally people who have a criminal record for a DUI conviction are inadmissible to Canada.
What Can I Do if I am Inadmissible to Canada?
Someone who is inadmissible to Canada because of a criminal record has two options.
- The first is applying for a temporary resident permit, which will allow you into Canada on a temporary basis. This is a more suitable option if your criminal conviction is more recent, or occurred within the last five years.
- The other option for people who are inadmissible to Canada is applying for a process called criminal rehabilitation. While this is a longer process than applying for a temporary resident permit and must be done at the Canadian consulate or embassy, it is a permanent way of overcoming your criminal inadmissibility to Canada. Criminal rehabilitation is an option if your criminal offense is older, occurring more than five years ago.
Even if you apply for one of these options, you can still be denied. It is a great idea to speak with a licensed immigration lawyer before you must travel to Canada to learn whether you will be inadmissible to Canada or not, and to explore your options. If a temporary resident permit or criminal rehabilitation is right for you, they can help you apply and ensure that your application is prepared properly.
Are You Criminally Inadmissible to Canada?
Have you tried to enter Canada but were refused? Whether you have a criminal record for a DUI or something worse, having the right paper work can help you.The first step to overcoming inadmissibility to Canada is to book a consultation online with one of our experienced staff. From there, we can help you chose the best option to possibly overcome your status of Criminally inadmissible to Canada.
President & CEO
Michael Niren
Mr. Niren is CEO of VisaPlace LLC and the President and Managing Partner of VisaPlace Legal Canada, an immigration law firm based in Toronto, and VisaPlace Legal US a law firm registered in The District of Columbia, USA. Mr. Niren is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Canadian Bar Association’s Citizenship and Immigration Section, American Lawyers Association, and an Associate Member of the American Bar Association.
