Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Countries that bar travelers with convictions?

I am wondering if there is a comprehensive list of countries that bar travelers that have non-violent convictions. I have a DUI from 5 years ago. I was below the legal limit but that doesn't seem to make much of a practical difference. It was actually plea-bargained down to a Negligent Driving in the 1st degree, but now I find that I can't go to Canada due to their travel restrictions regarding indictable offsenses. My fairly expensive ($5000) legal representation didn't cover this aspect.

I don't want to have to call a lawyer each time I want to leave the country, so I'm hoping there is a site somewhere with up-to-date and comprehensive information regarding this.

Thanks.


Asked on 5/17/04, 2:39 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Paul Ferris Law Office of Paul T. Ferris

Re: Countries that bar travelers with convictions?

Visit the State Department for info on specific countries: http://travel.state.gov/. The following is from their website:

The Department of State�s Consular Information Sheets are available for every country of the world. They describe entry requirements, currency regulations, unusual health conditions, the crime and security situation, political disturbances, areas of instability, and special information about driving and road conditions. They also provide addresses and emergency telephone numbers for U.S. embassies and consulates. In general, the sheets do not give advice. Instead, they describe conditions so travelers can make informed decisions about their trips.

With repsect to your Negligent Driving 1st Degree, you are likely eligible to have the conviction vacated, which should permit you to enter Canada. To determine whether you qualify to have the conviction vacated, review RCW 9.96.060 or visit www.washrecord.com for a summary of the requirements.

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Answered on 5/17/04, 1:15 pm


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