If you are charged with driving while intoxicated, you may be prevented from traveling internationally to certain countries. Here’s what you should know and how to protect your rights after being arrested for drinking and driving.

Mexico 

DWI offenders are treated harshly in Mexico. Foreigners who have been convicted of drunk driving within the last ten (10) years are usually denied entry to Mexico. This is because under the country’s immigration regulations, a DWI is considered an indictable charge, akin to a felony, and convicted felons are not allowed entry.

Canada

Canada is one of the hardest countries to travel to if you have a DWI in the United States. Like Mexico, drunk driving is a felony in Canada, and anyone who has been convicted of this charge may not cross the Canadian border for at least five years. After 5 years, if you continue to have a clean criminal record, you can attend a criminal rehabilitation course or pay a fine of $200 to be allowed to enter Canada. Canada also offers the option of being “rehabilitated by the time” if ten years pass and you have no other criminal convictions. 

South Africa 

While misdemeanor DWI charges under U.S. law are rarely a problem for South African visitors, a felony charge could be an issue. Even if you are not officially asked to divulge any criminal activity in your history, you will be expected to voluntarily disclose such at the South African border. If you don’t, it’s known as “deception by silence,” and you’ll be refused entry.

China & Japan

China and Japan both conduct thorough background checks and will likely turn up your DWI whether or not you include it in your paperwork. It’s in your best interests to be upfront and honest. Often, applying for a travel waiver allows you to visit either country for 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. 

Help Keep Your Record Clean With a Maryland DWI Lawyer Today 

Maryland criminal defense & DWI Lawyer Richard Brueckner understands the less frequently considered impacts of a DWI conviction and can help you protect your rights and freedoms to the best of his ability. Contact RJB Law, LLC today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case with attorney Brueckner and begin developing an effective defense strategy. Call now at 410-430-1464. We are standing by now to assist you with your legal needs.