People with DUI convictions usually cannot enter Canada.
Canada has strict rules regarding who may cross its border and does not allow people with criminal records to enter, including people with DUI convictions. If a person has had a DUI conviction in the last ten years, in general he cannot enter Canada; however, in special circumstances he may be able to get a temporary permit or apply to be considered rehabilitated.
Inadmissible Status
Canadian law considers DUI a significantly serious offense no matter when it occurred. Any US citizen who has a DUI on his criminal record can be barred from entering Canada. DUI is one of the criteria for being placed on inadmissible status, which means that in most cases Canadian authorities will not allow the person to cross the border. Authorities only consider DUIs that occurred within the last ten years.
Temporary Resident Permit
If a person with a DUI conviction needs to enter Canada for a specific purpose, she can apply for a temporary resident permit. This permit allows her to enter Canada for a specific period of time. Temporary permits cost about 200 Canadian dollars (about $195 US dollars). These are only granted under exceptional circumstances. Humanitarian matters----i.e. visiting a minor child living in Canada----usually qualify for these permits, as do matters of national interest.
Criminal Rehabilitation
After a period of five to ten years, a person who was convicted of DUI may be deemed rehabilitated and allowed entry into Canada. Individuals may apply for rehabilitation five years after conviction. This application costs $180 US dollars. Individuals must not have been convicted of any other crime during the five-year period. To apply, individuals must submit a copy of all documents relating to the DUI conviction, including court documents, certificates from local police and the FBI, proof that all sentencing requirements have been completed, a copy of the exact law that was violated and a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the violation. Individuals must also get three letters of reference.
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