Traveling LPR with DUI Conviction

[Arroyo77 5]

Hi,

 

I’m an LPR and was convicted of a misdemeanor DUI back in Nov 2022. My arrest happened Sept 2021. My probation should be over this Nov 2025 and I plan to apply for citizenship right after (yeah I know the GMC look back period but figured I could try still? I’m not an alcoholic, started a business since then and I’m actively involved in my community with volunteer work). Anyway, I have traveled outside the country after my conviction and have had to go through additional screening with no issues but with the new administration and all their efforts for deportations, I’m worried about traveling. Is it a good idea to travel outside the country or should I avoid it? For context, one trip is a family vacation and other is for work.

[Crazy Cat 43,002]

Question for the group:  Does a DUI violate the good character requirement for citizenship?

[Ontarkie 14,707]

You need to look at the countries you are wanting to go to. As some countries such as Canada you will not be allowed entry until you apply for a waiver and are granted one. 

 

[Arroyo77 5]

@OntarkieI’m not necessarily having issues going to other countries. My issue is going to other countries and coming back to the states. As I said, I typically have to go through some form of additional screening when I return and have never had an issue but with the new administration I don’t know if I would also have no issues or if they would hold me for removal proceedings or anything of that sort.

[Bob in Boston 774]

You are a LPR and will be until a judge says your not. They have to let you in.

[Arroyo77 5]

hey @Bob in Bostonthanks for your reply. It brought a tear to my eyes. I fully regret having had gotten a DUI because it’s not who I am. I just hope this new administration sees that.

Edited January 23 by Arroyo77

[Leomn 0]

@Arroyo77 did you end up traveling? I’m curious to know if you had any issues as my situation is very similar. 

[OldUser 8,542]

  On 3/30/2025 at 7:47 PM, Leomn said:

@Arroyo77 did you end up traveling? I’m curious to know if you had any issues as my situation is very similar. 

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Situation is different on CBP enforcement now compared to January

[Leomn 0]

Have you heard if green card holders with DWI on record are having issues re-entering the USA lately? 

[Arroyo77 5]

Hey everyone, 

 

So I recently traveled outside of the US twice and had no issues coming back. I do want to highlight though that I drove out to Mexico. I didn't fly out from the US. I want to make that distinction because I think it's a different process driving through the border than arriving at an airport. Every time I've arrived at an airport from an international flight, I get sent for extra screening and this is where I think I would have an issue. That's not to say it wouldn't happen by driving through, but so far when I drive in I get through very quickly and easily. 

 

In fairness, I would still say to be cautious and be prepared in case you go out and run into issues. I prepared everything for my wife in case anything happened, such as how to notify my work, making sure I had savings for her and the kids to be okay, a lawyer to call, etc. NEVER sign anything and do not speak unless a lawyer is present. All things anyone should know.

 

Good luck, everyone!