Attempting to enter Canada with a driving-under-the-influence charge (DUI) on your record can result in being denied entry at the border.

Under Canadian law, a DUI is considered a serious criminal offense, potentially leading to criminal inadmissibility for non-Canadian citizens.

However, with proper planning, individuals can take proactive steps to address criminal inadmissibility before attempting to enter Canada.

Understanding Criminal Inadmissibility

Only Canadian citizens hold the automatic right to enter Canada, while foreign nationals and permanent residents may face inadmissibility due to criminal acts or charges.

If you are criminally inadmissible and have not taken corrective actions, it is advisable not to attempt entry into Canada to avoid potential exclusion orders.

• Pending charges
• Warrants
• Arrests
• Convictions

Identifying Equivalent Canadian Offenses

Identifying the Canadian equivalent of the offenses committed is crucial in determining available remedies for overcoming criminal inadmissibility.

Factors such as the severity of the offenses, the number of offenses, timing of the offenses, and completion of sentences play a role in assessing criminal inadmissibility and available remedies.

Given the complexity involved, many individuals opt to seek assistance from an immigration lawyer when navigating entry to Canada with a criminal record.

Choosing the Right Remedy

Option 1: Pending Conviction

If facing a DUI charge without a formal conviction, obtaining a legal opinion letter can provide legal context and professional insight to Canadian authorities regarding entry eligibility.