DUI/DWI Travel Restrictions/Implications

If you’re like many citizens that are arrested for DUI, you’re probably realizing the serious consequences you’re facing in court. Jail, probation, community service, heavy fines…you get the idea. But there are also “hidden” penalties that many drivers are completely unaware of until it is staring them in the face. One such penalty is restrictions on your ability to travel.

Perhaps you enjoy traveling around the globe on a regular basis vacationing with your family. Or maybe you have close relatives or miss visiting the native country that you were born in. If you are convicted of a DUI, you may not be able to travel to them anymore. If you’re debating whether or not to hire a DUI attorney to represent you, this may be the reason to hire one.

Why would a DUI conviction affect my traveling abilities?

Almost every country considers any type of crime a reason to refuse to let you into their borders. Sometimes, certain countries may also put a restriction on the frequency of your visits due to a DUI conviction.

And since countries don’t particularly care about the type of crime you were convicted of (either a misdemeanor or felony), they can simply refuse to let you in based on their discretion. It’s important to note that almost all DUI convictions are considered misdemeanors, which are far less serious than felonies. Drivers are only convicted of felonies if something serious occurred (i.e.: if they are a repeat DUI offender or if someone died due to a DUI accident). Many countries typically ban you if you are convicted of a felony, only. Most likely, if you have been convicted of a DUI misdemeanor, countries can limit or restrict your entry for a specified amount of time.

How can I travel if I have been convicted of DUI?