I had a DUI in 1988. I have been to Canada in 2008 and 2013 with no issues. After doing some internet research, it would seem in 2015, the Border Guards have full access to criminal records, and more people are now being turned away. My question to anyone that has crossed the border on a motorcycle after 2015, did the Guard specifically ask ask if you had any criminal convictions?
I am planing on riding to Banf in July. I am going to start the process of applying for a Temporary Resident Permit now, but there are no guarantees this will be granted,
I would appriciate any comments or advise. Thanks.

 

At one time you could acquire a special permit (I think it was called a Minister's Permit) in order to enter Canada if you a civil or criminal conviction.
A friend of mine bought a cottage in Ontario and once they ran a background check the was denied entrance until he obtained this permit (there was a $ fee) and he was limited to the total amount of time that he could be spend there annually.

Times change and so do rules but you're wise to plan ahead.

 

Never had an issue with the Canadian side, US is a whole other issue they've busted my ***** every trip coming back.

 

go to your local police station or similar and get a record check on yourself so you know what they are looking at the border. don't they have a pardon process down there to clear past convictions?

 

 

Go to your local police station and court and they will give you paperwork to "Expunge" the record[other words--make it disappear]

There is a fee connected to it and sometimes takes up to 3-6 months to process, but if you've never had another arrest[ for basically the same crime or worse] you should be fine----good luck---keep us informed


Rocker

 

I have never been asked in a half dozen trips up to the cold white north that specific question. But a lesson learned, give the honest answer. If they ask, say yes. Then give details as requested. Access may still be granted due to how long ago it was, but if you say no and the border guard is looking at it on his screen, you are not getting into Canada. They seem to have discretionary power at the border, nothing seems to be a definite yes or no. But lying and getting caught will turn into a huge no. Good luck.

 

Be as honest as you can about your situation you get nothing in return if your trying to hide something these days its extremely difficult they have great information on all of us. I am sure you can do a good back ground check with your local Police Department to avoid any hassles when you take your trip Good luck Enjoy.

 

 

Usually they will ask if you have any previous convictions, that's when the DUI will come up. They have all the records...b.