Criminal Records and Canada

Probably the most frequent question I get is what type of documentation is needed to take a cruise. Usually, this is about passport requirements, but for some individuals, it should also go further to their legal and criminal status. Did you know that you may be denied boarding for a cruise leaving from the US if you have delinquent court-ordered child support? Or if you have ever had a criminal conviction? It's difficult to bring up this type of personal information, I know, but it's important your agent has this information to best assist and guide you.

This is the time of year when people are thinking about cruises to Canada, either Alaskan cruises or fall Canada/New England sailings. Because of this, thought I'd briefly highlight a little-known Canadian immigration law which might affect you.

Over the past several years, Canada has been strengthening their border security, just as the United States has. However, one provision of Canadian immigration law which you might not be aware of could affect your next cruise: Canada may prohibit your entry if you have any type of criminal conviction. This includes such things as DUI or DWI convictions, simple assault and shoplifting.

The US has given Canada expanded access to their criminal databases since 9/11, presumably to ensure better cross-border controls, but the result has been increasing numbers of US citizens turned back at the border. Frequently asked questions about this policy can be found at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/faq-inadmissibility.asp

However, if you have a conviction in your background, all is not hopeless to cruise to Canada (which includes all Alaska cruises as well as Canada/New England cruises). Depending on the circumstances, you can apply to be deemed "rehabilitated." In general, if the conviction was at least 5-10 years ago and your sentence fully served at least 5 years in the past, you may be able to get a waiver from a Canadian embassy or consulate in advance of your visit. For more information on obtaining a waiver, go to http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/conviction.asp. Do know it can take up to a year for an application to be processed, so if you're planning a trip any time in 2008 or 2009, you need to start the process immediately.

If you have questions regarding this type of immigration question, I am always here to provide guidance on where you can go to get firm answers on your particular situation. Information such as this is always kept in strict confidence, but in order to serve you best, I need to know if there are any situations which might keep you from cruising.