What felonies are not allowed in Canada?
Asked by: Devante Boehm | Last update: November 13, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (11 votes)
Almost all convictions (including DUI, DWI, reckless driving, negligent driving, misdemeanor drug possession, all felonies, shoplifting, theft, etc.) make a person inadmissible to Canada, regardless of how long ago they occurred.
Can you go into Canada with felonies?
If a felon gets approved for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or Criminal Rehabilitation (CR), they can be allowed in Canada. Otherwise, if an American citizen has a criminal record that renders them inadmissible, they will usually not be allowed to visit even if they do not have any recent arrests.
What convictions stop entry to Canada?
- war crimes.
- crimes against humanity.
- being a senior official in a government engaged in gross human rights violations or subject to international sanctions.
What will deny you entry into Canada?
Many convictions in the U.S., including for driving under the influence of alcohol (“DUI”), driving while intoxicated (“DWI”), reckless driving, and negligence, can make a person inadmissible for entry into Canada.
Can I go to Canada with a criminal record from the US?
If you have a criminal record, you may not be allowed to enter Canada. Only Canadian citizens have a right to enter Canada. Without Canadian citizenship, Canadian authorities may deem that you are inadmissible on account of criminality.
The Countries I can (and can't) travel to with a Criminal Record
How far back does Canada check background?
Understanding Border Checks
Canadian border officials can access criminal record databases from the USA. This means there is no limit to how far back they can look when assessing a traveler's background.
Can I get a passport if I have a felony?
Having a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify someone from getting a passport. The State Department typically only denies passports for specific reasons like: Owing $2,500+ in child support. Being subject to sex offender registration requirements.
Does Canada do a background check border?
Canadian border agents have full access to U.S. criminal records, including FBI background checks, so they are likely to flag anyone with an arrest or a felony charge.
Does your criminal record clear after 7 years in Canada?
It's a common misconception. And the question is, does your criminal record in Canada clear after seven years? Unfortunately, the answer is, it does not magically disappear.
How do you know if you are flagged by customs?
Extended questioning can be a sign that you've been flagged for further inspection. Secondary Inspection: If you're directed to secondary inspection upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry, it could indicate that you've been flagged for additional scrutiny.
What criminal records are not allowed in Canada?
Almost all convictions (including DUI, DWI, reckless driving, negligent driving, misdemeanor drug possession, all felonies, shoplifting, theft, etc.) make a person inadmissible to Canada, regardless of how long ago they occurred.
Can a felon cruise to Canada?
Canada's rules
Canada's laws ban anyone with a criminal record from entering the country, including on a cruise. This applies regardless of the severity of the crime or how long ago it was committed.
Why is Canada refusing visitor visas?
Personal Assets: Not having assets such as a house, cars or businesses back home may affect your ability to prove ties to your home country. 12. Host in Canada financial situation: Lack of supporting documentation from the Canadian host, may also be the reason for refusal of your visa application.
What crimes are considered felonies in Canada?
A felony includes crimes like murder, terrorism, cocaine trafficking, etc. Felony crimes can be punishable by life or in certain states capital crimes are punishable by death. Minor offences are considered misdemeanors.
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.
Can you get into Canada with a DUI on your record?
Americans can obtain permission to enter Canada with a driving under the influence conviction by getting approved for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or Criminal Rehabilitation (CR).
Can I go to Canada if I had a felony 20 years ago?
Even if the conviction happened 20+ years ago, foreign nationals with a felony may never be deemed rehabilitated by the passage of time and risk being denied entry at the Canadian border even decades later.
What crimes cannot be pardoned in Canada?
- sexual offences involving a minor.
- more than 3 indictable offences where the sentence was more than 2 years in jail each time.
- any crime in which the sentence can never be completed (in some very serious cases the offender will receive lifetime in jail or lifetime probation)
Does a felony go away after 7 years?
Dismissed felony charges can usually be sealed or expunged right away. In California, a felony conviction stays on your record forever if you do not get it expunged. You may be eligible for an expungement if you did not serve time in state prison.
What disqualifies you from entering Canada?
Foreign nationals can be refused entry to Canada if they were convicted of a crime stemming from a misdemeanor arrest or for more serious crimes, such as felony convictions.
Does customs see warrants?
Many travelers wonder if CBP is alerted when an inbound passenger has a warrant for their arrest issued. Yes, CBP is alerted.
How does Canada know you have a felony?
the border has access to your records and if they look you up, they'll see you're a convicted felon and deny you entry. it goes both ways as well. if someone wants to cross into the usa and has anything on their record, they could get denied entry.
Can you fly with a felony charge?
Can Convicted Felons Travel? Yes, but it depends on your country of citizenship. If you're a US citizen, then yes. You can travel to most countries worldwide as long as you have a passport and a visa (if necessary).
Can a convicted felon own a gun?
California Penal Code 29800 PC imposes a lifetime ban on gun ownership or control by convicted felons. It applies to anyone convicted of a felony in any state or country.
Can a 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.