Travel Restrictions After a DUI

You may be surprised to find out that a drunk driving conviction will limit where you can travel. Some countries will restrict entry for individuals with a criminal background, including a DUI or DWI. Even Canada and Mexico can deny entry to U.S. citizens with a criminal history.

Not all countries will deny you entry for a DUI criminal conviction. You may also be able to get a waiver to travel. A DUI defense attorney can review your case and help you avoid a criminal record. To find out more about international travel after a drunk driving arrest, consult with a DUI defense lawyer.

Will a DUI Prevent Me From Traveling Internationally?

There are many consequences for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. Drivers know about jail time, fines, and a suspended driver’s license. However, other consequences are more far-reaching, including international travel restrictions. Many countries will block you from entry if you have a criminal record. This includes restricted entry for misdemeanor DUI convictions.

Drunk driving charges are not uncommon in the United States. However, other countries treat impaired driving much more seriously. A drunk driving misdemeanor in the U.S. can be treated more like a felony overseas. Other countries also have lower legal limits for drunk driving.

International restrictions may last for five years or more. You may need to wait several years or apply for a travel waiver to enter a foreign country with a DUI on your criminal record. Every country has a different policy for entry with a criminal history. Find out more about entry restrictions from the State Department or the country’s embassy.

What Countries Deny Entry for a Drunk Driving Conviction?

Several countries, including the United States, can deny entry for various criminal convictions, including drunk driving. Some countries limit entry only to felony DUIs. Countries may also have a time limit for restricted entry. Countries that may limit your international travel include:

• Australia
• Canada
• China
• Japan
• Malaysia
• Mexico
• New Zealand
• South Africa

In many countries, a single DUI is not a prohibited criminal offense. Generally, the European Union does not restrict entry for U.S. passport holders with a misdemeanor drunk driving conviction. However, check the restrictions of individual countries before making travel plans.

Do I Need To Declare My DUI When Applying for a Travel Visa?

Citizens of the United States may need a travel visa to enter certain countries. This includes China, Vietnam, and Turkey. The questions on a travel visa application vary by country. Some visa applications ask whether you have a criminal record in any country.

If the visa application asks about your criminal background, be honest. Lying on a tourist visa is often worse than having a DUI conviction. If you’re not sure whether you need to disclose a DUI, talk to an attorney.

The majority of countries do not require a visa for U.S. passport holders. The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel for tourism for a limited period without a visa. However, individuals can still be barred at the port of entry.

An immigration officer at the border can deny entry for certain felony and misdemeanor charges. Don’t make travel plans before you know how a DUI will affect international travel.

Other countries can find out about your criminal history. The U.S. and other countries share criminal data with other countries. This allows immigration officers to do extensive background checks to see prior DUI convictions. This information can come up when the immigration officers check your passport at border control or immigration.

Can You Go to Mexico or Canada With a DUI?

Millions of Americans travel to Mexico and Canada by car or plane yearly. However, these countries can restrict your entry for criminal convictions.

According to Canadian laws, you may be inadmissible for criminality if you drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol. To enter Canada with a DUI, you have to have criminal rehabilitation. You can apply for entry after five years as long as you don’t have any other alcohol-related offenses. After ten years, you will generally be able to enter.

Similarly, Mexican authorities can refuse entry for up to 10 years for anyone with a DUI. According to the Mexican Consulate, you may “be refused entry if your previous criminal history could compromise national or public security.” However, DUI travel restrictions are not always strictly enforced.

How Long Will a DUI Affect My Ability To Travel Internationally?

The travel restriction time limit will depend on the country. Some countries will not allow entry for up to 10 years after a DUI conviction. However, you can able to apply for a travel waiver.

A clean record since the conviction can show that you are not a habitual offender. Depending on the country, it may help your case if you receive substance abuse treatment and counseling.

How Can You Keep a DUI Off Your Record?

The best way to avoid travel restrictions is to avoid a criminal conviction. You don’t have to plead guilty just because of a drunk driving arrest. Your attorney can review your case and explain your legal options. Your attorney can also negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce charges. For more information about your DUI case, talk to a DUI criminal defense lawyer.