How long after a felony conviction can you get a passport?

Asked by: Wyman Mayert  |  Last update: September 19, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (18 votes)

Waiting Period for Felon Passport Application For some federal crimes, such as drug trafficking, a 5-10-year waiting period may be required before getting a passport. This allows for a “cooling off” period to elapse. Other convictions don't have defined waiting periods.

What charges stop you from getting a passport?

Outstanding warrants or criminal charges: If you have outstanding warrants or certain criminal charges, such as felony charges related to international drug trafficking or child abduction, you may be denied a passport.

Can you go to the Bahamas with a felony?

The Bahamas does not accept Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) for entry. All U.S. Nationals who are currently on community supervision cannot enter the Bahamas, but can seek entry once their sentence is completed.

Can a felon go to Mexico?

Mexico Law: Convicted Felons Can Be Denied Entry

If you have ANY KIND of criminal record, you may not be allowed into Mexico, even with a valid passport.

Can you apply for a passport while on felony probation?

You absolutely can apply for a passport on felony probation unless your judge specifically orders you not to have one as a special condition of your probation. Obtaining a passport and using it are two separate matters.

The Countries I can (and can't) travel to with a Criminal Record

25 related questions found

Can a felon get a passport after 7 years?

For some crimes like drug trafficking, a 5-10 year waiting period may be required before getting a passport. This allows for a “cooling off” period to elapse. Other felony convictions don't have defined waiting periods. But typically, the longer it's been since finishing your sentence, the better chances of approval.

Can a convicted felon join the military?

Generally, felons and those with several convictions can't join the Army, but waivers are available in some cases. The offenses and moral behavior-related issues that cannot be waived include: If you are under civil restraint, including parole, confinement, or probation.

Can a felon go on a cruise?

Cruise Line Background Checks

As a result, you could be denied boarding if you are a sex offender or have a violent felony conviction on your record, such as for armed robbery.

How long after a felony can you go to Canada?

You can be “deemed rehabilitated” if enough time has passed since your conviction, or since all conditions of your sentence have been met. The standard amount of time is 10 years. So if it has been 10 years or more since you committed a crime or completed a sentence for a crime, you may be able to enter Canada.

Can felons go to the Caribbean?

Caribbean. Most Caribbean nations, excluding Jamaica, will not limit entry for those with criminal records.

Can you fly internationally with a felony?

Entry restrictions depend on several factors, including the following: Individuals sentenced to imprisonment for more than four years are generally denied entry. Those with recent convictions (within the past 12 months) or multiple offenses may face entry restrictions.

Can I go on a cruise if I'm out on bond?

Defendants must remember to check out the requirements for obtaining an entrance visa if they plan to go on a cruise, but they also need to check with the judge or court to ensure that their bail bond agreement allows for travel outside the area.

Can you go to the Bahamas without a U.S. passport?

U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas, as well as proof of anticipated departure from The Bahamas. Those traveling to The Bahamas on a cruise may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document, such as a U.S. passport card.

What gets you denied for a passport?

Some reasons to deny a passport include: A valid, unsealed federal warrant of arrest. A federal or state criminal court order. A condition of parole or probation forbidding departure from the United States (or the jurisdiction of the court)

What crimes disqualify you from global entry?

Here are some key examples of disqualifying criminal convictions:
  • Felony Convictions. ...
  • Drug-Related Offenses. ...
  • Crimes Involving Fraud or Deception. ...
  • Theft and Property Crimes. ...
  • Domestic Violence and Assault. ...
  • DUI and DWI Convictions. ...
  • Sex Offenses. ...
  • Immigration Violations.

How can I get my passport fee waived?

Apart from immigration requests, Form I-912 for passport application allows you to seek a fee waiver for U.S. passports under specific conditions. For instance, if financial difficulty qualifies you for a passport fee waiver, you will have to follow particular procedures and submit the required supporting documents.

Can a convicted felon get a passport?

Who can and cannot get a passport? According to USA Today, most felons can get a passport without a problem. This is assuming a person is not currently awaiting trial, on probation or parole or otherwise banned from leaving the country.

Does Mexico allow felons to visit?

According to the State Department, “Mexican law permits Mexican immigration authorities to deny foreigners entry into Mexico if they have been charged with or convicted of a serious crime in Mexico or elsewhere.”

Can a felon go on a cruise that stops in Canada?

Felons can have trouble getting into Canada regardless of how they arrive at a Port of Entry. Canada's admissibility laws are consistent across all border stations, so felons are equally at risk of being turned away at all land border crossings, Canadian airports, and even when arriving by ship.

Is there jails on cruises?

Most cruise ships have a facility known as a “brig” or “holding cell.” These are small, secure rooms designed to detain passengers or crew members who pose a threat to themselves or others.

Can convicted felons get food stamps in Florida?

The department shall monitor continued eligibility for temporary cash assistance through periodic reviews consistent with the food assistance eligibility process. Benefits may not be denied to an individual solely based on a felony drug conviction, unless the conviction is for trafficking pursuant to s. 893.135.

Can felons travel to Hawaii?

Having a criminal record does not automatically bar you from traveling to the US, including Hawaii. With the appropriate US Entry Waiver, you can legally enter the country and enjoy your trip without issues.

How to get a felony waiver?

Providing strong documentation is crucial to the felony waiver process. You will need to provide documentation, such as: Court records and police reports. Proof of rehabilitation, such as counseling or community service.

Can I join the reserves at 50 years old?

The age limit for Navy Reserve servicemembers is 42 years, though exceptions can be made for Sailors who have previously served. The minimum age requirement is 17 with parental consent and 18 without.

Do you lose military benefits if convicted felon?

As we mentioned before, many monetary benefits for veterans will be reduced as a result of incarceration due to a felony conviction. All or some of those benefits that are no longer being provided to the incarcerated veteran can be allocated to the veteran's spouse, children, or parents.