FAQs

Some Americans may require the assistance of a knowledgeable immigration professional to evaluate if they may lawfully enter Canada with a DUI record. Others may already be aware that they are criminally inadmissible but want assistance from an attorney in developing a viable plan for successfully crossing the Canadian border. Even if a person has no prior criminal record, a single minor DUI can now render a foreign national ineligible in Canada for life. A criminal conviction for driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages does not mean a person will never be able to cross the border; rather, it means they may require specific governmental clearance before coming to Canada with a DUI.

According to Canada's visa policy, Costa Rican nationals are among the numerous nations that do not need to get a visa when visiting Canada for tourists. As a Costa Rican citizen, you are eligible for a Canada ETA, which means you may get your travel documents online. You may acquire it in as little as 24 hours by using the Canada Immigration Services website. The Canada ETA for Costa Rican citizens has a validation for 5 years after being issued or until the passport expires. This means that you can travel to Canada within this period. You are granted a Multiple Entry and you can be there for 180 days Per Entry. This prolonged stay allows tourists to spend enough time in Canada for a variety of activities, including leisurely exploration, family visits, business commitments, and educational programs.

In determining eligibility for travel to Canada as a result of a DUI arrest, it is not the severity of the charge in the United States that is important; it is the possible offense under Canadian law. The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) is the legislation that determines whether a non-Canadian can be denied entry into Canada based on inadmissibility. Under this act, pending DUI charges are considered "under prosecution" and may exclude U.S. citizens. Ultimately, the onus is always on the traveler to prove their eligibility for entry when challenged by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials. Once a person is arrested on suspicion of drunk driving, the likelihood of them being convicted is nil until they have enough evidence, such as evidence of dismissal, that they could face big problems if they try to enter Canada. Therefore, if you drink and drive and get pulled over, your eligibility to travel to Canada could be abruptly terminated. Even lowering the DUI charge does not guarantee a smooth voyage into Canada. Reducing a DUI charge to a lesser charge such as reckless driving or careless driving could still result in you being denied entry to the Canadian border. This is because a dangerous operation is a serious offense north of the border, even if you are not impaired. If you have any arrests on your record, entering Canada may require a great deal of preparation. If your misdemeanor DUI charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, written proof of favorable status may help with successful border crossing, but it is recommended that you consult with a qualified Canadian immigration lawyer before traveling.

Make sure you take the following key items with you on your journey to Canada: Warm Clothing - Canadian winters are very cold, so a good quality thick jacket is a necessity. Your extremities tend to get cold faster, so bring a pair of thick gloves if you plan to play in the snow. Hiking shoes - There are plenty of hikes to choose from all over the country. A good pair of shoes is essential if you plan to go on an outdoor adventure. Umbrella - If you're visiting when rain is expected, an umbrella or mackintosh will keep you dry. Sun protection: When spending time outside, wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Travel papers and passport: Verify the validity of your passport and bring any required visas or permits. Cash and credit/debit cards are necessary because Canadian dollars are used there. Tell your bank that you will be away. Electronics adapter/converter: Although Canada utilizes the same electrical outlets as the US, it could still be helpful to have one. Medication: Prescription and over-the-counter medications that you might require. Chargers and a camera to record your travels across Canada! Water bottles and snacks are useful for long days of sightseeing.

No. There are currently no testing requirements to enter Canada. Since October 1st, 2022, the Canadian government has eliminated all COVID-19 limitations for visitors to Canada. Travelers from China, Hong Kong, and Macao no longer need to submit a COVID-19 test result upon boarding their aircraft. Travelers do not need to show a negative test result, PCR test result, or rapid antigen test results to boarding staff or border officers at Toronto Pearson Airport or other entry points.

Yes. Edmonton is generally a secure city with a low crime rate. As a solitary female tourist, you'll feel quite at home thanks to the friendly residents and the city's well-organized infrastructure. However, it is always advisable to use caution, especially at night and in remote regions.

Yes. Montreal is considered a safe city for solo female travelers.  The residents are courteous and considerate, and the city itself is generally clean and well-maintained. Even in the evenings, public transportation is dependable and typically safe. While it is always vital to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, most visitors find Montreal to be friendly and believe the city provides a great travel experience.

If you hold a Samoan passport, you do not require a Paper Visa to enter Canada. All you need is a Canada ETA. Canada's ETA is an official document that allows certain international travelers to enter this country. It works with an electronic system, known as Electronic Travel Authorization, hence its acronym ETA.

Foreign people having an arrest or conviction on their criminal record may be considered inadmissible to Canada and denied entrance. Any person who has ever been convicted of a misdemeanor or crime may be considered ineligible under Canadian law unless they acquire special admission clearance from the Government of Canada, particularly if the conviction occurred within the past 10 years. People with more than one misdemeanor on their record, as well as convicts, may be permanently barred from entering Canada unless they resolve their status by filing for official entry. This implies that, absent specific permission, an American with virtually any criminal record—including a DUI or reckless driving conviction—runs the danger of having their admission to Canada rejected. Additionally, there is no presumption of innocence while traveling to Canada, thus even in the case of an arrest leading to no conviction, a border refusal may still occur.

Germany issued a blue passport, which is also known as a refugee travel document. After the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees recognizes your right to asylum or refugee status, you will be awarded a Blue passport. Blue Passport grants you protective status and residency rights in Germany but does not qualify you for Canada eTA. To be eligible for the Canada eTA, you must hold a German citizen passport. The Canadian electronic travel permission will be valid for a maximum of 5 years. This time will begin with the day the eTA was granted to the applicant. Please keep in mind that the eTA will be valid till the following events occur: