Countries a Convicted Felon can Visit with a U.S. passport

Some countries do not require a U.S. citizen to have a passport before entering. So, a convicted felon will not have a problem going to any of these countries. But, there are plenty of countries that do require a passport and a visa. A convicted felon with a passport is not guaranteed entry when a visa is required.

No Visa Country and Convicted Felon 





There are plenty of countries that do not ask a U.S. citizen for a visa when visiting them. So, any persons with a valid U.S. passport can enter without issues, even a convicted felon. Some of these nations include the following:

  • Caribbean countries
  • Mexico
  • Columbia
  • Ecuador
  • Peru
  • Venezuela
  • European countries
  • South Africa
  • Thailand

Keep in mind a valid passport is a necessity and the six-month passport validity rule applies. For more information on travel restriction for a convicted felon here.

Countries Where Visas is Required and Criminal Records is Requested

Some countries that require a U.S. citizen to have a visa for entry may want you to get it before traveling or upon arrival. During the visa application, these countries will ask about your criminal history and may not issue a visa depending on the crime. Such countries are

With a felony conviction, you may be denied entry. Other nations that require a pre-entry visa are Brazil and India.  The good news about Brazil and India, their visa application does not ask about a criminal record. So, a convicted felon can travel to any of these nations without fear of denying entry.

 

Where to Apply for a Visa?





Most countries have an embassy in the U.S. For that reason; many require you to apply for one at the embassy in the state you reside in. Others prefer you use online. An electronic visa called ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) is required to travel to Australia or India. Some visas are valid for 90 days while others can be for up ten years. You may need a visa valid for one entry while others like China and Brazil visas are good for multiple uses in a ten-year span.

Some countries have complicated visa processes. The best advice is to seek visa services to prevent any delays; especially, if a visa is required in advance or even if you can get one at a port of entry. Getting one when you arrive can take time away from your trip. Also as a felon, you do not want to be denied entry after making your trip.

Overall

If you plan to visit any country that requires a visa for entry, apply at an embassy way in advice to prevent any disappointment. If a visa is only granted at the port of entry, it is best to ask at an embassy if you will be denied entry based on your conviction before boarding your flight. It is necessary to so that you can go to another country that may not need a visa to visit.