jamesf

OK 8 years ago I got arrested and cautioned for the first and only time in my life. I had a thimble full of cannibis on me.

I actually don't or never did smoke the stuff so it's ironic.

Sorry unfortunate. Ironic would be if my parents were dope producers and I refused to be involved, anyhow, enough of a lesson to Alanis Morrisette fans....

I'd like to go to the states. I don't want to live there, I just want to go there.

If I apply for a visa, what are my chances?

I own my own company, am involved in charities etc. I'm actually the most non rule breaking person in the world tho, not sure if this helps.

ian-mstm

You're ineligible for the VWP because of the arrest, but you might be approved for a B-2 visa. The drug arrest - regardless of outcome - will play a big part in whether or not it's approved. You lose nothing by trying.

Ian

anabella

I know someone in England that flew to the US and was arrested at the airport and sent back.. it never even crossed his mind to think that he wouldn't be allowed in for having been arrested in the UK quite some years before.. At least you are aware of where you stand and if there is a way of coming here to visit I'm sure you'll find it.. good luck..

chriswest

so are u saying even if he didnt get convicted or anything .. just getting arrested can stop him from getting a visa?:curse: ,,, how can they tell ?

fatbrit

There's a Romany who reads her crystal ball behind the one-way glass as you approach the desk. She waves her silk scarf at the immigration officer if she sees you've been using.

Jerseygirl

You're on form today FB.

fatbrit

I'm in a mood and taking no prisoners.

Sally

The stripey shirt

ian-mstm

Yes, that's exactly what I'm saying.


Well, let's put it this way... if he lies and is caught (which, let's face it, is not outside the realm of possibility), he's facing a lifetime ban from the US. If he tells the truth, they may still let him in. And if he does tell the truth and they still deny him the visa, the whole thing will likely blow over in another 7 years. Usually (... usually...) a 15 year old record isn't taken into consideration.

Ian

jamesf

So I guess I'll apply and see what happens. Bit annoying really since I was only stopped and searched due to the fact a guy in Soho was a known mugger and was being aggressive with me.

The cannabis had been given to me in a bar and I'd stupidly put it in my pocket wrapped in a tesco receipt.

But none of this counts anyhow.

I'm happy to take daily drug tests of any kind for a whole year if necessary, but again don't think this helps my cause.

I'll let you know what happens.

lj2

Hmmm.... how likely would my Dad be to get in given history of Theft and GBH?

Ray

He will need to apply for a B-2 as well ..

Chopper-Chris

Strictly speaking, the VWP is restricted to you due to the following...


(2) Criminal and related grounds.-

(A) Conviction of certain crimes.-

(i) In general.-Except as provided in clause (ii), any alien convicted of, or who admits having committed, or who admits committing acts which constitute the essential elements of-

(I) a crime involving moral turpitude (other than a purely political offense or an attempt or conspiracy to commit such a crime), or

(II) a violation of (or a conspiracy or attempt to violate) any law or regulation of a State, the United States, or a foreign country relating to a controlled substance (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802)), is inadmissible.

However, in reality...your criminal record (especailly as you were not convicted) will not be on your passport and the immigration offcials will have absolutley no way of knowing that you were ever in this position.

I say go ahead and book the flight...enjoy the US

Ray

A caution is a conviction .....

Chopper-Chris

but the immigration official at the gate would have no way of knowing about it...would they?