Entering Canada With a Misdemeanor
If you are planning to visit Canada and have a criminal history, even for minor offenses like misdemeanors, you may be denied entry and turned away at the border by Canadian immigration authorities.
Fortunately, individuals who have been denied entry into Canada have several options to address their past criminal offenses and legally cross the border.
The Millennium Immigration can assist you in your efforts to enter Canada. Simply complete our contact form, and one of our experts will contact you to schedule a free consultation.
Table of Contents
- Reasons for Criminal Inadmissibility
- Overcoming Misdemeanor Convictions
- Frequently Asked Questions
Reasons for Criminal Inadmissibility
Foreign nationals can be refused entry to Canada if they have been convicted of a crime, whether it stems from a misdemeanor arrest or more serious offenses like felonies. Canadian immigration authorities assess the severity of the crime based on its Canadian equivalent, regardless of how it was handled in the country where the offense occurred.
Driving Offenses
Driving offenses are among the most common misdemeanors that affect an individual’s ability to enter Canada. Every year, many people are denied entry due to convictions for driving under the influence (DUI) or related offenses, such as dangerous driving or wet reckless driving.
However, any misdemeanor conviction—whether for theft, resisting arrest, possession of controlled substances, or other crimes—can render someone criminally inadmissible to Canada.
In Canada, an impaired driving conviction can result in a maximum sentence of up to ten years. Therefore, any citation for impaired driving in the U.S. (or other countries) can make someone inadmissible to enter Canada under Canadian law.
Overcoming Misdemeanor Convictions
There are several ways to ensure that past misdemeanor convictions do not prevent you from entering Canada. The best pathway for your situation depends on:
The number and type of offense(s);
The severity of the offense(s);
When the sentencing for the offense(s) was completed.
By assessing these factors and comparing them to the consequences for similar crimes in Canada, you may be granted entry with valid justification.
Foreign nationals can overcome their past criminal offenses and enter Canada using one of the following pathways:
Consulate Application for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) allows individuals whose most recent offense occurred less than five years ago to temporarily enter Canada. TRP applications are processed at a Canadian Visa Office. [Learn more](#).
Port of Entry Application for a TRP
TRPs can also be issued at Canadian ports of entry (land, sea, or air) for urgent, last-minute travel plans or emergencies. [Learn more](#).
Criminal Rehabilitation
This process permanently resolves criminal inadmissibility issues. Individuals who completed their sentence more than five years ago may be eligible.Â
Deemed Rehabilitation
If more than ten years have passed since your criminal conviction and sentencing, you may be eligible to enter Canada without the need for the formal rehabilitation process.
About THE MILLENNIUM IMMIGRATION
THE MILLENNIUM IMMIGRATION is one of Canada’s premier immigration law firms, boasting over 11 years of experience with a dedicated team of over 60 immigration attorneys, paralegals, and professionals.
Our team at THE MILLENNIUM IMMIGRATION excels in helping clients overcome inadmissibility challenges. We take the time to fully understand your unique situation, ensuring we submit the strongest possible application to Canadian immigration authorities.
Founded in 2013, themillenniumimmigration.com has become a trusted global resource for immigration to Canada. Connect with us today so we can assist you with your inadmissibility needs.