Business trip to US - criminal history

[rakem]

Hi,
I have been to the US fairly often over the past few years for holidays. I have previously been arrested for possession (about 7 years ago now). Each time I have gone to the US i have applied for a visa at the embassy and they have all been approved. This process has always taken a number of months to complete.

However, now I will be going to the USA for about 1 week on a business trip. I don't have a valid visa at the moment. Do I need to go through the same visa application process If I'm on a business trip? The trip will be happening in the next few weeks so I don't have time to go through the whole normal process and that normally takes a few months.

What can I do?

 

[The Rok]

I think you are out of luck, however it will largely depend on the business you are in and your value to the US economy. If you were a high flying suit with a US Multinational then you may be able to get it fast tracked but if not I think you need to come clean with your boss about why you cannot go.

 

[get me outta here]

There was another thread on here on a similar issue, if you can find that and see if any info / advice from that person.

 

[Major]

Have a look here

http://www.australianfrequentflyer..../criminal-record-obtaining-us-visa-15468.html

 

[moa999]

As you can see from that thread, the application time has blown out wildly at present.
Given you have previously applied for a visa, you will unfortunately need to continue doing so.