Canadian VISA applicant for entry into China with a criminal record.?

Question

Many years ago, when I was young and stupid, I got a criminal record for dealing drugs. I'm trying to apply for a VISA to enter China, but they ask a question on the application, "Do you have a criminal record in China or any other country?" I called the Chinese consulate, and they told me that my VISA application will probably be rejected due to the nature of my criminal record. I have gotten advice that the Chinese consulate does not have access to the criminal records of other countries, so I should be okay to say NO. Does anyone know if the Chinese consulate in Toronto, Canada actually checks every applicant for criminal records? Any help or advice would really help.

Answer 1

You can gamble but if the criminal records will be checked in Toronto, your visa will not be approved.  Hope that the Chinese Embassy officials will not check in Toronto.

Answer 2

Hey Sunny

Consulates as a rule does not have access to private citizen records in Canada. The story is however different between the Chinese Customs and the Canadian police and justice department. Whilst your Visa might be granted should you state that you have no criminal record, information can show up once your passport is scanned when you land in China. Should you look suspicious such as carrying dangerous material, tatooed, long hair or less impressive appearance, then you are even more likely to be scanned for criminal records.

For example, the Canadian, New Zealand, US, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan and several countries have agreement whereby the custom officer at the port of entry can call the passenger's home country to have their criminal record faxed across in a matter of minutes.

Finally, don't take the chances. It is a felony and an indictable offence in China for not correctly disclose information to the authorities. You can also be charged under deceptive and misleading the government. Don't let it turn into a foreign relations crisis.

If you are absolutely desperate to go to China, then you should consult a Chinese immigration agent. They usually have links to the local Ambassy which can easily explain your case to the official and get your case across the line. Some fees would obviously apply. : ) Remember, just because you have a criminal record doesn't mean your visa will be rejected. The consulate will take into consideration the type of crime, sentence, your age and how likely you will re-offend. Traffic, financial and blue collar crimes are usually not too bad. Theft, drug, violence or if you have been sentenced for a substantial amount of time, then your chances are rather slim.

Good Luck. If only time could be turned back huh.

Answer 3

go to www.cic.gc.ca and see rehabiatiated. you must have your record either cleanred or explained by what used to be callad a minster permit to enter. but even americans with a dui a light crime in the usa cannot enter canada legally. canada is quite strict.

it is not the chinese consulate that checks but the canadian govt  

csis and thier rcmp. thier govt spy and police agencies.