If you have a DUI on your record, you may be wondering whether it will stop you from visiting Canada. Unlike many other countries, Canada treats impaired driving offenses very seriously, and even a single conviction can make you inadmissible at the border.
Whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or a family event, understanding Canada’s DUI entry policies is essential before you book your trip.
The good news is that having a DUI does not automatically mean you can never enter Canada — but it does mean you need to understand your options and prepare properly.
Because every DUI case is different, speaking with an experienced DUI lawyer can help you understand your specific eligibility and avoid costly mistakes.
Professional legal guidance can significantly improve your chances of entering Canada smoothly and without unexpected issues at the border
Canada DUI Entry Policies
Canada has some of the strictest entry rules in the world when it comes to criminal records. If you have been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), you may be considered criminally inadmissible under Canadian immigration law.
Unlike some countries that treat DUI as a minor offense, Canada often classifies impaired driving as a serious crime. This means even a single DUI conviction — including one classified as a misdemeanor in the United States — can prevent you from entering Canada.
Border officers have access to criminal record databases and can deny entry at airports, land borders, or seaports if you are found inadmissible.
Can You Go to Canada with DUI?
The short answer is: Yes, but only in certain situations.
You may be allowed to enter Canada with a DUI if:
- Enough time has passed since your conviction
- You qualify for Criminal Rehabilitation
- You receive a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
- You are considered “deemed rehabilitated” (in limited cases)
If none of these apply, you may be denied entry at the border.
Criminal Rehabilitation
Criminal Rehabilitation is a permanent solution for overcoming inadmissibility due to a DUI.
You may apply for Criminal Rehabilitation if:
- At least 5 years have passed since completing your entire sentence (including fines, probation, license suspension, etc.)
- You have demonstrated that you are unlikely to reoffend
If approved, you are no longer inadmissible for that offense.
This option is ideal for individuals who plan to travel to Canada regularly and want a long-term solution rather than applying for a TRP each time.
What Should You Do If You Want to Travel to Canada
If you have a DUI and plan to visit Canada, preparation is essential. Do not assume you will be allowed entry without checking your status.
Here are the key steps:
Checking Eligibility
Start by reviewing:
- The date of conviction
- The date you completed your sentence
- Whether you have multiple convictions
- Whether the DUI involved injury or property damage
You should determine whether you may qualify for deemed rehabilitation, criminal rehabilitation or temporary Resident Permit
Apply Early
Processing times for Criminal Rehabilitation applications can take several months — sometimes longer.
If your travel date is approaching, applying early increases your chances of approval before your trip. Waiting until the last minute can lead to denied entry at the border.
Prepare Documentation
Proper documentation significantly improves your chances of approval. Common documents include:
- Court records showing conviction details
- Proof that all fines were paid
- Proof probation or sentence was completed
- Government-issued background check
- Personal statement explaining the circumstances
- Evidence of rehabilitation (employment, community involvement, etc.)
Incomplete applications often result in delays or refusals.
Can You Enter Canada with One DUI?
Yes, but not automatically.
Even a single DUI conviction can make you inadmissible. However, you may still enter Canada if:
- It has been enough time since sentence completion
- You qualify as deemed rehabilitated (in limited cases)
- You obtain Criminal Rehabilitation
- You are approved for a TRP
After 2018, Canada increased the maximum penalty for impaired driving, which made DUI offenses more serious under immigration law. This change affects how admissibility is assessed.
How Long After a DUI Can You Enter Canada?
The timeline depends on your specific situation.
- Less than 5 years since sentence completion: You likely need a TRP.
- More than 5 years since sentence completion: You may apply for Criminal Rehabilitation.
- 10 years after completion (in limited older cases): You may qualify for deemed rehabilitation, though this is less common under current law.
The clock starts after the entire sentence is completed — not the conviction date.
Can You Travel to Canada While Your DUI Case Is Pending?
If your DUI case is still pending, you may still be considered inadmissible.
Canadian border officers may:
- Deny entry until the case is resolved
- Allow entry at their discretion
- Require proof of court status
Travel during a pending case carries risk, and approval is never guaranteed.
What Happens If You Don’t Declare a DUI?
Failing to disclose a DUI when asked can result in serious consequences.
Providing false information or hiding a conviction may lead to:
- Immediate denial of entry
- Removal from Canada
- A ban of up to 5 years for misrepresentation
Canadian authorities can access criminal databases, and honesty is strongly recommended.
Special Cases
Certain DUI situations require additional analysis.
Multiple DUIs
Having more than one DUI significantly reduces your chances of entry.
Multiple convictions may qualify as serious criminality and make rehabilitation more complex. In most cases, a TRP or approved Criminal Rehabilitation will be required.
Felony DUI
A felony DUI, especially one involving injury or property damage, is treated more severely. You will almost certainly require Criminal Rehabilitation or a TRP before entering Canada.
Expunged DUI
Even if your DUI was expunged, sealed, or pardoned in your home country, Canadian authorities may still consider it for admissibility purposes.
An dui expungement does not automatically remove inadmissibility under Canadian immigration law.
DUI from 20+ Years Ago
If your DUI occurred more than 20 years ago and you have no further offenses, you may qualify as deemed rehabilitated — depending on the law at the time of conviction and current assessment criteria. Each case is evaluated individually.
How to Increase Your Chances of Entering Canada with a DUI
To improve your chances:
- Apply for Criminal Rehabilitation if eligible
- Submit a complete and well-documented application
- Provide evidence of stability (employment, family ties, community involvement)
- Demonstrate remorse and behavioral change
- Apply well in advance of travel
- Consider consulting a lawyer for complex cases
Preparation, transparency, and timing are key factors in a successful application.
Final Thought
Traveling to Canada with a DUI is possible in many cases — but it requires careful planning, honest disclosure, and the right application strategy. Whether you need a Temporary Resident Permit, qualify for Criminal Rehabilitation, or may already be eligible to enter, taking action early can prevent stressful surprises at the border.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, don’t leave your travel plans to chance. Review your case carefully, gather the proper documentation, and consider speaking with a qualified immigration professional. The right preparation today can ensure smooth entry into Canada tomorrow.
