obtaining a Visa for a brief US holiday

[flyingsolo7711]

Hi,
I'd like to visit the US, but am worried that a conviction for a minor offence (to the value of $60) approximately 40 years ago (nothing since, I've been a good person ) will bar me from entering on the grounds of "moral turpitude". Should I go to the US Consulate and apply for a Visa? I've been to the US twice before (first time I winged it, second time I fessed up and it wasn't an issue). But I've heard they are much more stringent these days. One of my kids will be in the US next year and I'd like to visit, but obviously dont want the embarrassment of being refused entry. Can anyone help please?

 

[Hvr]

Welcome flyingsolo7711, firstly do remember that information from an internet site whilst well intentioned isn't legal advice. So take what you read here with a grain of salt.

What state do you live in? You may be in a state where there is spent conviction legislation and your particular offence has been wiped from the books so to speak.

Get a police check from your state and let your future actions be guided by that outcome.

 

[Metabourke]

Get a police check from your state and let your future actions be guided by that outcome.

I'm not a visa specialist, but I thought the US didn't recognise the concept of spent convictions. If you have "fessed up" in the past they may be able to link that information to you now, so I would think it unwise to declare no convictions whatever state legislation may apply in the state in which you live.

If you're worried about being refused entry, then its would be better to apply for a visa.

 

[flyingsolo7711]

Thanks Metabourke. I dont know if the US recognise "spent convictions", but I also thought since I told them about it on my last trip in the mid-90s, they probably would be able to link it up if I went again. Thanks for replying.