US citizens and permanent residents with criminal convictions are generally inadmissible to Canada for at least 10 years. However, you can apply for a Temporary Resident Permit if you need to come to Canada. This TRP Checklist will help you come to Canada with a DUI or other criminal record.
TRP checklist
- Do you need a Temporary Resident Permit? If you only have one summary offence on your record, such as possession of under 30 grams of marijuana, you do not need a TRP.
- Are you eligible for deemed rehabilitation? If you don’t have a serious record, you may be eligible to enter Canada without a TRP. A serious record is a conviction that would carry a maximum prison sentence of more than 10 years or more if committed in Canada.
- Do you have a good reason to come to Canada? Your reason must outweigh the potential risk of allowing a person with a criminal record into the country.
- Am I leaving enough time for my application? It’s possible to get an urgent TRP at the border; however, this application is not recommended for leisure visits. If you want to vacation in Canada, you should consider a consulate application, which can take up to a year.
- Do you need other permits to come to Canada? If you plan to work or study in Canada, you will also need to apply for the necessary permits.
- Gather all the necessary documents.
- Fully complete and sign the application.
- Pay the fee. The government fee for a Temporary Resident Permit is $200.
- Is this the right application? You can apply for a TRP if it has been more than five years since you completed your sentence. However, you may be better off applying for Criminal Rehabilitation. This is a permanent solution that will allow you to come and go subject to the same restrictions as any other American visitor. You can apply for a TRP and Criminal Rehabilitation at the same time if necessary. A Criminal Rehabilitation application will take longer.
How can AllCleared help me?
AllCleared has specialized in border travel waivers and criminal record services since 1989. We have a Registered Immigration Consultant on staff that can prepare your application. If you have any questions about anything on this TRP checklist or would like to know more about TRPs contact us for a free consultation at 1-866-972-7366.
