I have a criminal record. Will i get into the USA for holiday?

Question

I was convicted of theft 5 years ago. I didn't go to prison, i had comunity service.

Answer 1

It depends entirely on your conviction.

If you have committed an offense that resulted in either an arrest and/or conviction or you have a criminal record then to visit the United States you will require a visa and visa you need to apply for is the tourist (B-2) visa.

You can do this via visiting the website for the American embassy in your country.

Now there is no guarantee that your visa application will be accepted, this is in the hands of consul on the day of your interview at the embassy.

Below I have provided you the website to the American Embassy in London and the page details the processing of applicants with criminal convictions wishing to enter the United States.

Edit:

In regards to Phil's answer - any person who as committed a crime which resulted in either an arrest and/or conviction is not eligible to travel under the visa waiver program (vwp). This is regardless of the crime, even if you got arrested for a minor traffic offense, you would still not qualify for the vwp. See link below.

http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_new/visa/niv/arrests_and_convictions.html

The only difference is that the people with minor traffic offenses would not have a problem obtaining a visa to travel. As I said, it all depends on your conviction weather or not you will be granted the visa.

Edit:

To the person who gave me a thumbs down, obviously you have trouble clicking the links I have supplied. The proof/evidence is there for you to see.

Answer 2

1

Answer 3

Depends where you are actually coming from,
I have travelled to the USA many times and whilst on the plane whilst filling in the Visa Waiver it asks if you have a criminal record of any type. If you do you must imform the cabin crew to be taken to a special office with some immigration officers.
If you are from the UK, you will have to apply for a Visa otherwise you may not be allowed entry into the United States. I would recommend calling the US Embassy in London. You may have to pay them a visit.

Answer 4

As long as you have a vaild passport you can be here up to 90 days...if you have any warrants out for your arrest, you may be detained at the airport however.

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Answer 5

It depends the US immigration rule. I would suggest applying for a pardon first.

having a criminal record will limit your ability to travel.

Answer 6

ok, ok, 1st things 1st. I dont know where you are coming from. If you are coming from cananda and your crime is not a felony then you should have no problem. If it is then dont count on it. Talk to the courts clerk they can tell you if you are able to get clearance for the usa. They can also lead you in the right direction in doing it.
I hope this helps you. GOOD LUCK

Answer 7

The rules have really changed in the last few years. You can call a Consulate or Embassy and ask.

Answer 8

A guy I know who is in his forties got done for shop lifting when he was a kid, he got refused a visa for the USA for that. So I would say it isn't looking good.

Answer 9

If you are from the UK, I think you should be OK with just one offence, as long as it's not drugs related, or a serious sexual conviction. In theory you should be OK to go in on the normal visa waiver, but to be sure it might be a good idea to apply for a visa in advance.

Answer 10

May be a problem, check with your local travel agency.