Many countries classify certain crimes as a reason to refuse (or limit) entry into their country. The Canadian Government has determined certain individuals are not allowed to enter Canada or to remain inside the Canadian borders if they have committed certain crimes including a DWI or DUI offense. Other crimes that may limit admission to Canada include, without limitation:

Any felony conviction will also result in a denial of admission to Canada.

The only way to seek admission into Canada after a DWI or other qualifying offense is to apply for a Minister’s Approval of Rehabilitation. For a DWI, this process can be initiated only five years after the probationary period for an offense such as a DWI has elapsed.

Americans can apply for “criminal rehabilitation” by submitting the following:

1. An application form IMM 1444E
2. A passport size photograph
3. A copy of your passport data pages
4. An FBI police certificate
5. A state police certificate
6. Copies of court documents indicating the charge, section of law violated, the verdict, and sentencing
7. Proof of completed sentences, paid fines, court costs, ordered treatments, etc.
8. Copies of the text of the law describing the offence.
9. Detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the offence
10. Three letters of reference from responsible citizens.
11. A non-refundable processing fee of $180 USD