Traveling to the United States can be a dream for many, whether for tourism, work, or education. However, certain criminal convictions can render individuals inadmissible to the USA, posing significant barriers to entry. This blog will provide detailed information on the reasons for inadmissibility to the USA and outline specific crimes that can make you inadmissible. We will also highlight why SekCheck is an excellent choice for assistance in applying for a US Waiver.
Reasons for Inadmissibility to the USA
The U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) outlines various grounds for inadmissibility, which can prevent individuals from entering the country. These grounds include health-related issues, security concerns, immigration violations, and criminal convictions. For the purpose of this blog, we will focus on criminal inadmissibility.
Crimes That Make You Inadmissible to the USA
Criminal convictions are a significant factor in determining inadmissibility to the United States. Here are some key categories of crimes that can make you inadmissible:
Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)
Crimes involving moral turpitude are offenses that involve conduct that is inherently base, vile, or depraved, and contrary to accepted rules of morality and the duties owed between persons or to society in general. Common examples include:
- Fraud: Offenses involving deceit or intentional dishonesty, such as identity theft, credit card fraud, and insurance fraud.
- Theft: Crimes involving the unlawful taking of property, including burglary, larceny, and robbery.
- Assault: Crimes involving physical violence or threats of violence, particularly those resulting in serious bodily harm.
Controlled Substance Violations
Convictions related to the illegal possession, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances can lead to inadmissibility. This includes:
- Drug Possession: Possession of illegal drugs, even in small quantities.
- Drug Trafficking: The manufacturing, distribution, or sale of illegal drugs.
Aggravated Felonies
Certain serious crimes are categorized as aggravated felonies under U.S. immigration law. These crimes carry severe immigration consequences, including permanent inadmissibility. Examples include:
- Murder: The intentional killing of another person.
- Rape: Non-consensual sexual acts, including statutory rape.
- Sexual Abuse of a Minor: Any sexual conduct with a person under the age of consent.
Multiple Criminal Convictions
Having multiple criminal convictions can also result in inadmissibility, regardless of the nature of the offenses. The INA specifies that individuals with two or more convictions resulting in an aggregate sentence of five years or more are inadmissible.
Crimes of Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Child Abuse
Crimes involving domestic violence, stalking, child abuse, or child neglect can make an individual inadmissible to the USA. These offenses reflect a threat to personal safety and societal order.
Human Trafficking and Prostitution
Engaging in human trafficking or offenses related to prostitution can lead to inadmissibility. This includes:
- Human Trafficking: The exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion for labor or commercial sex.
- Prostitution: Engaging in or promoting prostitution.
Terrorism and National Security Concerns
Involvement in terrorist activities or actions that pose a threat to national security can make an individual permanently inadmissible. This includes:
- Terrorist Activities: Engaging in or supporting acts of terrorism.
- Espionage: Conducting espionage activities against the USA.
Understanding the crimes that can make you inadmissible to the USA is crucial for anyone with a criminal record seeking entry into the country. Whether it's crimes involving moral turpitude, controlled substance violations, or aggravated felonies, these convictions can significantly impact your ability to travel to the United States.
For those facing inadmissibility due to criminal convictions, obtaining a US entry visa waiver can provide a pathway to entry.
SekCheck is one of the best agencies to apply for a US Waiver, offering expert guidance and comprehensive support throughout the application process. With their expertise, SekCheck can help you navigate the complexities of obtaining a waiver, increasing your chances of successfully entering the United States.