Entry Into Canada (Application For Rehabilitation)
Many Americans are unaware that there are several restrictions governing travel to Canada. For example, individuals with criminal convictions in the U.S. or another country likely cannot enter. In light of the tragic event on Sept. 11, 2001, the Canadian government made a decision to restrict certain travelers. Individuals with criminal records find it difficult to enter their country.
Travel Restrictions
Even a misdemeanor record can prevent an individual from traveling from the U.S. to Canada. For example, drunk driving is a misdemeanor to our neighboring north. In turn, someone with a misdemeanor DUI / DWI conviction in the U.S. is denied admission into Canada.
Since a criminal record in the United States can prevent entry into Canada, it’s critical to obtain post-conviction relief as soon as possible. Clearing the individual’s record will open up travel opportunities and release life-restrictions.
If approved, an Application for Rehabilitation will clear the way for an individual convicted of a criminal offense in the U.S. to enter Canada. The experienced lawyers of The Kavinoky Law Firm can assist an individual with an Application for Rehabilitation that may allow entry into Canada.
Application For Rehabilitation
In order to qualify for and Application for Rehabilitation to enter Canada, at least five years must have passed since the completion of any sentence and probation imposed for the offense. Some individuals can have their rehabilitation request processed at a Canadian port of entry through two processes known as “deemed” and “streamlined” rehabilitation. Equally as important, applicants must provide all required documentation and pay a fee of $200 Canadian for streamlined rehabilitation. There is no fee for deemed rehabilitation.
Required documents include identification, court documents for each conviction that show that the sentence was completed, a recent FBI criminal record check, and a police certificate from the state(s) where the offense occurred and any state where the individual has lived for more than six months in the past 10 years.
Rehabilitation requests can also be submitted to the Canadian Consulate. The individual must submit an application and all relevant documents to the Canadian Consulate. Just as in streamlined or deemed rehabilitation, there is no guarantee that the Canadian government will approve the request.
All in all, if it is less than five years since sentence completion, the individual may qualify for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP). To qualify for a TRP, the individual must complete an application and provide all of the documentation for rehabilitation.
Work with an Attorney
The procedures for submitting an Application for Rehabilitation to enter Canada are complex. It’s best to work with a skilled attorney who is familiar with the requirements.
The best criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles work for The Kavinoky Law Firm. They are well-versed in every aspect of the Canadian rehabilitation process. Additionally, a federal criminal defense lawyer, such as the ones we employ, can ensure the best chance of a successful application. Contact them today for a free consultation. 1.800.NoCuffs.
