If you’re traveling to Canada, you should know that having a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) conviction in the past ten years may prevent you from entering the country. Canadian laws consider this to be a serious offense.

Routine screening when entering Canada will require you to answer the question, “Have you ever been convicted of a crime?” If the answer is “yes,” anyone with a criminal record, including alcohol-related driving offenses, may be denied entry to Canada. Depending on the length of time since the conviction, you may not be able to enter the country without first getting approval for rehabilitation well in advance of your travels. The process includes completing paperwork and will cost you $200 (Canadian) and can take up to one year for processing.

Generally, if it’s been five years since the conviction, you can apply for rehabilitation. Find specific guidelines and instructions by visiting the Canadian government’s Overcoming Criminal Convictions page. 

If you are traveling to Canada from the U.S., you should know that with increased cooperation between the U.S. and Canada, immigration agents could already have access to your criminal record. Disclosing any convictions truthfully is highly recommended.

Click here to learn more about entering Canada.