Getting into USA with convictions

[Mezz77]

Hi
I'm planning on travelling to America at the end of the year. I have two convictions, one for possessing drugs and the other for a public nuisance charge. If I apply for a visa would I get approved, or should I risk it, not report my convictions and try to get in on the visa waiver program. The convictions are from 1 year ago

 

[Ewing]

The ESTA form specifically asks if you've violated any law related to possessing, using or distributing drugs. You could try filling the form out - I don't know what happens if you select yes.

 

[RooFlyer]

Suggest you have a look at the Visa and immigration area of this forum - there are threads on a couple of folks who have asked, and then gone through a similar process.

Oh, and welcome to AFF .

 

[slc767338]

Hi
I'm planning on travelling to America at the end of the year. I have two convictions, one for possessing drugs and the other for a public nuisance charge. If I apply for a visa would I get approved, or should I risk it, not report my convictions and try to get in on the visa waiver program. The convictions are from 1 year ago

Firstly, welcome to AFF

Secondly, I honestly wouldn't attempt the latter... You could find yourself in serious trouble with the U.S. authorities in the (somewhat likely, given the bi/multilateral relations Between US and Australia) case that you are found out. No one wants to be deported and banned from reentry for falsifying/withholding information on a VWP application.

I would call the U.S. Embassy in Canberra to see what the likelihood of being approved given your convictions (especially since they were gifted to you rather recently).

Oh and as a disclaimer, IANAL

 

[Buzzard]

If you are going to apply for a visa having convictions, be aware it could take 6 months for approval. Assuming you are approved. IMO the US carries on like a stuck pig when it comes to convictions for minor offences.