International Travel with a Criminal Record

International travel with a criminal record presents unique challenges for justice-impacted individuals seeking to visit other countries. While a federal conviction does not automatically bar travel abroad, the ability to enter foreign countries depends on multiple factors including the nature of the offense, the destination country's policies, passport eligibility, and any conditions of supervised release. Understanding these complexities is essential for anyone planning international travel after involvement with the federal criminal justice system.

For individuals who have completed their federal sentences, international travel can represent an important step toward normalcy and rebuilding one's life. However, navigating the intersection of U.S. passport regulations and foreign entry requirements requires careful preparation. This article provides comprehensive guidance on passport eligibility, country-specific requirements, and practical strategies for traveling internationally with a criminal record.

Summary

International travel after a federal conviction involves two distinct considerations: obtaining a U.S. passport and gaining entry to foreign countries. Most felony convictions do not prevent passport issuance, though specific offenses—particularly international drug trafficking, certain sex offenses, and child support arrears—can result in denial. Foreign countries maintain their own entry policies, ranging from relatively accessible (Mexico, most Caribbean nations) to highly restrictive (Canada, Australia). Those on supervised release must obtain advance permission from their probation officer before any international travel. The upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), expected in late 2026, will require pre-travel authorization for visa-free visits to the Schengen Area and may flag applicants with criminal histories for additional review.

Understanding Travel Restrictions

How Criminal Records Are Shared Internationally

The degree to which foreign governments can access U.S. criminal records varies significantly. There is no single global database that all countries access, but several mechanisms exist for international information sharing.

Interpol maintains databases that member countries can query, primarily for serious offenses and active warrants. The International Criminal Police Organization facilitates cooperation between law enforcement agencies in 195 member countries, though routine tourist entry screening rarely involves Interpol checks except at the discretion of border agents or when specific concerns arise.

Bilateral information-sharing agreements exist between the United States and certain countries. The U.S.-Canada relationship is particularly notable, as both countries share extensive criminal justice information. The Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System (PISCES) and other systems allow Canadian border agents to access U.S. criminal history information in real time.

The Five Eyes alliance (United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) shares intelligence and criminal justice information more extensively than other international partnerships. Travelers to these countries should anticipate that their criminal history may be accessible to border officials.

Most other countries do not have direct access to U.S. criminal databases during routine entry screening. However, travelers should never assume their record is invisible, as countries may share information through diplomatic channels, visa application processes, or random enhanced screening.

The Difference Between Travel Restrictions and Entry Denial

It is important to distinguish between U.S.-imposed travel restrictions and foreign entry denials:

U.S. travel restrictions are limitations imposed by the American government on a person's ability to leave the country. These include passport denial or revocation, supervised release conditions requiring travel permission, and court orders restricting travel.

Foreign entry denial occurs when a destination country refuses to admit a traveler. Each country has sovereign authority to determine who may enter, regardless of whether the traveler possesses a valid U.S. passport. A denied entry does not violate any U.S. law (unless the traveler is on supervised release and failed to obtain proper permission).

Why Restrictions Vary Dramatically by Destination

Countries establish their own entry criteria based on their domestic laws, political considerations, and security concerns. Some nations prioritize tourism revenue and maintain relatively open borders. Others, particularly those with significant U.S. immigration or asylum concerns, maintain stricter screening. Countries like Canada, which shares extensive law enforcement data with the United States, can easily identify travelers with criminal histories, while nations with less developed information-sharing arrangements may rarely encounter this information during routine screening.

The U.S. Passport Process

Can You Get a Passport with a Felony Conviction?

The short answer is yes—most people with felony convictions can obtain a U.S. passport. Federal law does not impose a blanket prohibition on passport issuance to convicted felons. The State Department evaluates passport applications based on specific statutory disqualifications rather than criminal history generally.

However, certain convictions and circumstances can result in passport denial or revocation. Understanding these exceptions is essential before applying.

Passport Restrictions

International Drug Trafficking Convictions

Under 22 U.S.C. § 2714, the State Department must deny passport applications from individuals convicted of federal or state drug trafficking offenses if the offense involved using a passport or crossing an international border during the commission of the crime. This restriction applies while the person is imprisoned or under parole or supervised release for that conviction.

This provision specifically targets international drug trafficking. Purely domestic drug offenses—even serious felonies—typically do not disqualify someone from passport eligibility once their sentence is complete. The key factor is whether the offense involved international travel or passport use.

After completing all aspects of the sentence, including supervised release, individuals with these convictions may become eligible to apply for a passport. Some sources indicate a waiting period of 5-10 years may apply after sentence completion, though specific circumstances vary.

Sex Offense Registrants

The International Megan's Law, enacted in 2016, requires certain registered sex offenders to obtain passports with a unique identifier marking their status. These passports contain a conspicuous notice on the inside back cover stating the bearer is a registered sex offender. While this does not prevent passport issuance, it may affect entry into foreign countries, as border agents can immediately identify the traveler's registration status.

Additionally, the State Department may revoke or deny passports if there is reason to believe the applicant will engage in sex tourism or child exploitation abroad.

Child Support Arrears

The State Department denies passport applications from individuals certified by the Department of Health and Human Services as owing more than $2,500 in child support. This restriction applies regardless of criminal history and can affect anyone with significant child support debt.

Outstanding Federal Warrants and Court Orders

Individuals with outstanding federal arrest warrants or court orders specifically restricting international travel are ineligible for passport issuance. State warrants may also trigger denial if they have been entered into federal databases.

Seriously Delinquent Tax Debt

The IRS can certify individuals with "seriously delinquent tax debt" (exceeding approximately $60,000, adjusted annually for inflation) to the State Department, which generally prohibits passport issuance or renewal and may revoke existing passports.

How to Apply and What to Expect

The passport application process for individuals with criminal records is generally the same as for other applicants. The standard DS-11 form (for first-time applicants) or DS-82 (for renewals) must be completed and submitted with required documentation.

Applicants should:

• Gather all required documentation (proof of citizenship, identification, passport photo)
• Complete the application honestly, including any questions about criminal history
• Submit the application at an authorized passport acceptance facility
• Pay the required fees ($165 for an adult passport book as of 2024)

Processing times vary from 6-8 weeks for routine service to 2-3 weeks for expedited service. Applications flagged for additional review due to criminal history may experience delays.

If a passport is denied, the State Department will provide written notice explaining the basis for denial. Applicants may request reconsideration or, in some cases, appeal the decision.

Country-by-Country Considerations

Canada

Canada maintains some of the strictest entry policies for travelers with criminal records. The country's Immigration and Refugee Protection Act renders individuals "criminally inadmissible" if they have been convicted of offenses that would also be crimes under Canadian law. Because Canada shares extensive criminal justice data with the United States, border agents can typically identify U.S. criminal records in real time.

Key considerations for Canada:

A single DUI conviction can render a person inadmissible, as impaired driving is considered a serious offense under Canadian law. Since December 2018, when Canada increased maximum penalties for impaired driving offenses, DUIs are classified as serious criminality, equivalent to an indictable offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment.

Options for overcoming inadmissibility:

Deemed Rehabilitation: If at least 10 years have passed since completing all aspects of the sentence (including probation), and the offense would be considered a non-serious crime in Canada (punishable by less than 10 years), the individual may be "deemed rehabilitated" automatically. No application is required, but the traveler should carry documentation proving sentence completion.

Criminal Rehabilitation Application: If at least 5 years have passed since sentence completion, individuals may apply for formal rehabilitation through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This involves submitting form IMM 1444 along with supporting documentation, police certificates, and government fees ($229.77 CAD for non-serious criminality; $1,148.87 CAD for serious offenses). Processing typically takes 9-12 months, and approval permanently resolves inadmissibility for Canadian immigration purposes.

Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): For urgent travel needs while a rehabilitation application is pending (or when rehabilitation is not yet available), individuals may apply for a TRP. These permits are issued for specific trips and specific timeframes, typically up to 3 years maximum. TRPs are discretionary and require demonstrating a compelling reason for travel.

European Union and Schengen Area

The Schengen Area represents one of the most accessible travel destinations for Americans with criminal records, though this is changing with the implementation of ETIAS in 2026. Currently, U.S. citizens can visit Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa and without systematic criminal background screening.

Understanding the Schengen Area

The Schengen Area is a zone of 29 European countries that have abolished passport and immigration controls at their mutual borders. For travelers, this means once you enter any Schengen country, you can move freely between all member states without additional border checks.

The 29 Schengen Area Countries:

Country	EU Member	Notes for Travelers with Records
Austria	Yes	Major gateway via Vienna; standard Schengen rules apply
Belgium	Yes	Brussels is EU capital; higher security awareness at airports
Bulgaria	Yes	Joined Schengen 2024; developing screening infrastructure
Croatia	Yes	Joined Schengen 2023; popular tourist destination with minimal screening
Czech Republic	Yes	Prague is major tourist hub; standard screening procedures
Denmark	Yes	Maintains some internal border controls; stricter than average enforcement
Estonia	Yes	Baltic state with standard Schengen procedures
Finland	Yes	Shares border with Russia; heightened security awareness
France	Yes	Major entry point; Charles de Gaulle has extensive security infrastructure
Germany	Yes	Largest Schengen economy; Frankfurt is major hub with thorough screening
Greece	Yes	Popular tourist destination; generally accessible entry procedures
Hungary	Yes	Central European hub; standard procedures
Iceland	No	Not EU member but full Schengen member; minimal screening for tourists
Italy	Yes	Major tourist destination; Rome and Milan are primary entry points
Latvia	Yes	Baltic state; standard procedures
Liechtenstein	No	Tiny principality; entry typically via Switzerland or Austria
Lithuania	Yes	Baltic state; standard procedures
Luxembourg	Yes	Small country; typically entered via neighboring states
Malta	Yes	Island nation; all arrivals by air or sea
Netherlands	Yes	Amsterdam Schiphol is major hub; professional but not aggressive screening
Norway	No	Not EU member but full Schengen member; thorough but fair procedures
Poland	Yes	Large country; Warsaw is growing hub
Portugal	Yes	Popular destination; Lisbon has standard procedures
Romania	Yes	Joined Schengen 2024; developing procedures
Slovakia	Yes	Central European country; often entered via neighboring states
Slovenia	Yes	Small country; Ljubljana is primary entry point
Spain	Yes	Major tourist destination; Madrid and Barcelona are primary hubs
Sweden	Yes	Maintains some internal border controls; thorough procedures
Switzerland	No	Not EU member but full Schengen member; efficient and professional screening

Important distinction: The Schengen Area and the European Union are related but different. Four Schengen countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) are not EU members. Conversely, two EU members (Ireland and Cyprus) are not in Schengen—Ireland opted out, while Cyprus is pending admission after resolving territorial issues.

Current Entry Requirements and Restrictions

What border agents can do now:

Under current rules, there is no systematic criminal background check for visa-free American visitors. Unlike Canada, European countries do not have real-time access to U.S. criminal databases during routine tourist screening. However, border agents retain broad discretionary authority under the Schengen Borders Code to question travelers and deny entry to anyone they deem a threat to "public policy, internal security, public health, or international relations."

The Schengen Borders Code restrictions:

The Schengen Borders Code (Regulation EU 2016/399) specifically allows denial of entry for:

• Convictions resulting in prison sentences of 3 years or longer
• Drug trafficking convictions with sentences of 2 years or longer
• Human trafficking or migrant smuggling offenses
• Any offense that would qualify as a serious crime under the laws of the member state

How enforcement actually works:

In practice, enforcement varies dramatically by country, port of entry, and individual border agent. Travelers report that:

• Major hub airports (Frankfurt, Paris CDG, Amsterdam Schiphol) have more thorough screening
• Smaller regional airports and land borders typically have lighter scrutiny
• Southern European countries (Greece, Portugal, Spain, Italy) are generally more relaxed
• Northern European countries (Germany, Netherlands, Nordic states) tend toward more systematic approaches
• Time of year matters—peak tourist season often means faster processing with less scrutiny

Alerts and watch lists:

While routine criminal background checks are not performed, travelers may be flagged if they appear in:

• The Schengen Information System (SIS II) for prior immigration violations or serious crimes
• Interpol databases for active warrants or serious offenses
• National watch lists maintained by individual countries

Country-Specific Considerations

France

France is one of the most visited countries in the world and generally accessible to travelers with criminal records. French border agents at Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports are professional and efficient. France does not systematically check U.S. criminal databases, and having a felony conviction does not automatically bar entry. However, if directly questioned, honest disclosure is essential. France recognizes the concept of "rehabilitation" and generally does not hold old or non-violent convictions against tourists.

Germany

Germany maintains thorough border screening at major hubs like Frankfurt and Munich, which serve as primary European gateways. German border police (Bundespolizei) have access to European databases and may conduct more detailed questioning if concerns arise. Germany's legal system recognizes "expungement" concepts and is generally reasonable about older convictions. Drug offenses may receive additional scrutiny given Germany's strict drug laws historically, though attitudes are evolving.

Italy

Italy is a popular destination that is generally welcoming to tourists with criminal records. Italian border control at Rome Fiumicino and Milan Malpensa is typically efficient and tourist-friendly. Italy does not have systematic access to U.S. criminal records for routine tourist screening. The Italian legal system's concept of "riabilitazione" (rehabilitation) means officials understand that convictions can be overcome.

Spain

Spain is among the most accessible Schengen destinations for travelers with records. Border control at Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona-El Prat is geared toward high-volume tourist processing. Spanish authorities do not routinely check U.S. criminal databases. Spain's emphasis on tourism means border agents are generally more focused on facilitating entry than finding reasons to deny it.

Greece

Greece is highly accessible to travelers with felony convictions. As a tourism-dependent economy, Greek border control at Athens and island airports prioritizes efficient processing. There is no systematic criminal background screening for U.S. tourists. Greek authorities are unlikely to be aware of U.S. convictions unless the traveler is on an international watch list.

Netherlands

The Netherlands maintains professional border screening at Amsterdam Schiphol, one of Europe's busiest airports. Dutch border agents are thorough but fair. The Netherlands has progressive views on criminal justice and rehabilitation, and having a past conviction is unlikely to cause issues absent other concerning factors. Drug offenses should be disclosed honestly if asked, as the Netherlands maintains nuanced drug policies.

Portugal

Portugal is considered one of the most accessible European destinations. Portuguese border control is geared toward welcoming tourists. Portugal's progressive criminal justice reforms, including drug decriminalization, reflect attitudes favorable to rehabilitation. There is no systematic screening for U.S. criminal records.

Nordic Countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland)

The Nordic countries maintain generally efficient and fair border procedures, though Sweden and Denmark have implemented temporary internal border controls in recent years. These countries have strong rehabilitation-focused criminal justice systems domestically, which typically translates to reasonable treatment of travelers with past convictions. Norway and Iceland, while not EU members, are full Schengen participants with similar approaches.

Eastern European Countries (Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Baltic States, Romania, Bulgaria)

These countries are generally accessible and have less developed information-sharing with the United States. Border screening at Warsaw, Prague, Budapest, and other Eastern European hubs is typically straightforward. Romania and Bulgaria, having just joined Schengen in 2024, are still developing their screening infrastructure.

ETIAS: The Coming Change

What is ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a pre-travel authorization system that will require visa-free visitors to obtain approval before entering the Schengen Area. After multiple delays, ETIAS is expected to launch in late 2026.

How ETIAS will work:

• Online application: Submit via the ETIAS website or mobile app
• Fee: €7 (waived for travelers under 18 or over 70)
• Processing time: Most applications approved within minutes; complex cases up to 30 days
• Validity: 3 years or until passport expiration, whichever comes first
• Multiple entries: Valid for unlimited entries during the validity period

Criminal history questions on ETIAS:

The ETIAS application will ask about criminal convictions within:

• 10 years for most offenses
• 20 years for terrorism-related offenses

Applicants must disclose convictions for:

• Terrorism and related offenses
• Sexual exploitation of children
• Drug trafficking
• Murder, grievous bodily harm
• Theft, fraud, receiving stolen property
• Cyber crime
• Environmental crime
• Trafficking in human beings
• Aiding illegal immigration
• Kidnapping, hostage taking
• Racism and xenophobia
• Organized crime
• Possession or trafficking of weapons/explosives

What criminal history means for ETIAS approval:

Having a criminal record does not automatically result in denial. The EU Commission has stated that:

• Minor offenses will generally be approved
• Old convictions (approaching the 10-year threshold) are less likely to cause problems
• Non-violent offenses receive more favorable consideration
• Serious crimes (terrorism, human trafficking, sexual offenses) are most likely to trigger refusal

If an ETIAS application is denied, travelers may still apply for a traditional Schengen visa through any member state's consulate, which involves a more comprehensive review but provides greater certainty.

Preparing for ETIAS:

Justice-impacted travelers should:

• Apply well in advance of planned travel (at least 30 days)
• Have documentation of conviction and sentence completion ready
• Be prepared to provide additional information if flagged for manual review
• Consider consulting an immigration attorney for complex cases
• Have a backup plan if approval is delayed

Practical Guidance for European Travel

Best practices for Schengen entry:

• Carry documentation of conviction and sentence completion, even if not required
• Enter through a major hub airport where procedures are standardized
• Travel during peak tourist season when processing is faster
• Have clear travel plans (hotel reservations, return ticket) ready to show
• If questioned, be honest but do not volunteer unnecessary information
• Know your rights—you can request an interpreter and written reasons for any denial

If you are denied entry:

Schengen denials must be documented in writing. You have the right to appeal within the denying country's judicial system. A denial at one Schengen border may affect future applications to all Schengen countries, as the denial is recorded in the Schengen Information System.

United Kingdom

The UK maintains entry restrictions based on criminal convictions but recognizes the concept of "spent" convictions (similar to rehabilitation):

• Convictions resulting in 4+ years imprisonment: Permanent bar to entry
• Convictions resulting in 12 months to 4 years imprisonment: Inadmissible unless 10+ years have passed since sentence completion
• Convictions resulting in less than 12 months imprisonment: Inadmissible unless 5+ years have passed since sentence completion

UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): As of April 2025, U.S. citizens will need to obtain an ETA (£10 fee) before traveling to the UK. The application requires disclosure of all criminal convictions, including spent convictions. The Home Office evaluates the severity, nature, and frequency of offenses when assessing eligibility. Applicants with significant criminal histories may consider applying for a Standard Visitor Visa instead, which involves more comprehensive review but provides greater certainty.

Mexico and Caribbean Nations

Mexico and most Caribbean nations are generally accessible to travelers with criminal records. Mexico does not routinely screen for criminal history, though border agents retain discretion to deny entry. Similarly, most Caribbean nations—including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, and the Bahamas—do not systematically check criminal backgrounds for U.S. tourists.

However, travelers should verify current entry requirements before travel, as policies can change. Some nations may ask about criminal history on arrival cards or customs forms; honest disclosure is always advisable.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia maintains strict "character requirements" under Section 501 of the Migration Act 1958. A "substantial criminal record" is defined as sentences totaling 12 months or more (whether served or suspended). Individuals with substantial criminal records cannot apply for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and must instead apply for a full tourist visa, which involves character assessment.

Importantly, suspended sentences count toward the 12-month threshold. Two concurrent 6-month sentences are treated as a 12-month sentence. All convictions must be disclosed on visa applications, regardless of when they occurred.

Character waivers may be available in exceptional circumstances, but they are discretionary and difficult to obtain. Visa denials can be appealed to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal within 28 days.

New Zealand similarly requires travelers to meet character requirements. Individuals who have been sentenced to imprisonment for 5 years or more are generally ineligible for visas. Those with sentences between 12 months and 5 years may be admissible if sufficient time has passed. New Zealand operates an Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) system that asks about criminal history.

Asia

Entry policies vary dramatically across Asian nations:

Japan asks about criminal history on arrival cards. Individuals with significant criminal records—particularly drug offenses—may be denied entry. Japan is known for strict enforcement, and travelers with felony convictions should research requirements carefully.

China does not routinely check criminal backgrounds for tourist visas, though the application asks about criminal history. Honest disclosure is essential.

Thailand, Vietnam, and most Southeast Asian nations generally do not systematically screen for criminal records among tourists, though policies vary.

Israel maintains extensive security screening and may identify criminal histories through intelligence-sharing arrangements. Entry is discretionary.

Practical Guidance

Should You Disclose Your Record Proactively?

This question has no universal answer, but several principles apply:

When you must disclose: If an entry form, visa application, or border agent directly asks about criminal history, you must answer honestly. Lying to immigration officials is a serious offense that can result in immediate denial, bans on future entry, and in some cases criminal prosecution.

When disclosure is optional: If not directly asked, proactive disclosure is generally not required or expected. However, some travelers prefer to carry documentation of their conviction and rehabilitation (court records, completion certificates, letters from probation officers) in case questions arise.

Strategic considerations: For countries with strict policies like Canada, arriving at the border without documentation of rehabilitation or a TRP is risky. For countries with less systematic screening, unsolicited disclosure may unnecessarily trigger scrutiny.

What Happens if You're Denied Entry?

If a foreign country denies entry:

• You will typically be returned to the United States on the next available flight
• The airline may charge for return transport
• The denial will likely be recorded, potentially affecting future visa applications to that country
• The denial itself is not a violation of U.S. law (assuming you had proper authorization to travel)

Being denied entry can be stressful and embarrassing, but it is not catastrophic. Many travelers are denied entry for various reasons and successfully travel to other destinations.

Travel Documentation Best Practices

Consider carrying:

• Court documents showing conviction details and sentence completion
• Probation/supervised release completion letters (if applicable)
• Certificates of rehabilitation (where available)
• Letters from employers or community members attesting to rehabilitation
• Evidence of ties to the United States (employment, property, family)

These documents may not be needed but can be valuable if questions arise.

Working with a Travel Attorney

For complex situations—particularly travel to restrictive countries like Canada, Australia, or the UK—consulting an immigration attorney who specializes in admissibility issues can be valuable. Attorneys can:

• Assess likelihood of entry approval
• Prepare rehabilitation or waiver applications
• Advise on documentation strategies
• Represent you in appeals if applications are denied

Special Considerations

Supervised Release Travel Restrictions

Individuals on federal supervised release face additional requirements. Standard conditions of supervision typically restrict international travel without advance permission from the probation officer and, in some cases, the court.

Process for obtaining travel permission:

1. Discuss travel plans with your probation officer well in advance (at least 30-60 days)
2. Provide detailed itinerary, including dates, destinations, accommodations, and purpose of travel
3. Obtain written permission before booking travel
4. Comply with any special conditions (check-in requirements, shortened trip duration)
5. Report to your probation officer promptly upon return

Traveling internationally without permission is a supervised release violation that can result in revocation and imprisonment.

Sex Offense Registrants

Registered sex offenders face unique challenges:

• Passports will contain conspicuous identifier under International Megan's Law
• Must comply with notification requirements before traveling (21-day advance notice to jurisdiction)
• Many countries deny entry to registered sex offenders
• Some supervised release conditions prohibit international travel entirely

Pending Charges vs. Convictions

Having pending charges (before conviction) creates different issues. While you may be legally permitted to travel, leaving the jurisdiction may violate bail or pretrial release conditions. Additionally, some countries may deny entry to individuals with pending serious charges.

Consult with your defense attorney before any travel while charges are pending.

Terminology

Criminal Rehabilitation (Canada): A formal application process through which individuals with criminal records can permanently overcome inadmissibility to Canada. Requires at least 5 years since sentence completion.

Deemed Rehabilitation: Automatic rehabilitation in Canada after 10+ years since sentence completion for offenses that would be considered non-serious crimes (punishable by less than 10 years).

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System): Pre-travel authorization system for visa-free visitors to the Schengen Area, expected to launch in late 2026.

ETA (Electronic Travel Authority/Authorisation): Pre-travel authorization required for visa-free visitors to Australia, the UK, and other countries.

Inadmissibility: Legal term for the condition of being ineligible to enter a country due to criminal history, health reasons, security concerns, or other factors.

Spent Conviction: UK legal concept where convictions become "spent" after a rehabilitation period, after which they need not be disclosed for most purposes.

Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): Canadian document allowing temporary entry for individuals who are otherwise inadmissible.

See Also

• Supervised Release
• Early Termination of Supervised Release
• Presidential Clemency and Pardons
• Expungement
• Overview of Reentry Processes

External Resources

• U.S. Department of State - Passports
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• UK Visas and Immigration
• Australian Department of Home Affairs

References

• ↑ U.S. Department of State, "Passport Denial or Revocation," travel.state.gov.
• ↑ 22 U.S.C. § 2714, Denial of Passports to Certain Drug Traffickers.
• ↑ Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, "Application for Rehabilitation for Persons Who Are Inadmissible to Canada," canada.ca.
• ↑ Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, "Guide 5312 – Rehabilitation for Persons Who Are Inadmissible to Canada," canada.ca.
• ↑ European Commission, "ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorisation System," ec.europa.eu.
• ↑ UK Home Office, "Immigration Rules Appendix V: Visitor," gov.uk.
• ↑ Australian Department of Home Affairs, "Character Requirements for Visas," immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
• ↑ Migration Act 1958 (Australia), Section 501.
• ↑ International Megan's Law (Pub.L. 114–119).
• ↑ Schengen Borders Code, Regulation (EU) 2016/399.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can felons travel internationally?

After completing your sentence and supervised release, you can generally apply for a passport. However, some countries may deny entry to people with criminal records.

Q: Which countries deny entry to felons?

Canada, Australia, and several other countries have strict policies. Entry may be denied or require special waivers depending on the offense and country.

Q: Can I get a passport with a felony?

Most felons can obtain a passport after completing their sentence, unless the conviction was for drug trafficking or certain other specific offenses.