I am on probation in the USA. Can I travel to the UK??

Question

I am not on probabtion yet. I hever never in my life ever been convicted of a crime nor recieved a traffic ticket. Its one of those "wrong place, wrong time" things and its really something I didn't do. Anyway, I worked out with the prosecutor that he will give me 1 year probation. He also said because of my record and job history, there is a very good chance that I will get off probation earlier than that since he feels I probably never commit any crime.

Anyway, when I get probation this week, I will be planning on traveling to the UK in September for a month or more. I have told the prosecutor of this and he said he would inform my parole officer that international travel will be ok.

So if my parole officer later WILL allow me to travel, with the UK immigration officer provide me with an entry clearance upon arrival if I have supporting documents? Do I need to contact the Embasy for prior entry? I am a US Citizen, born and raised. For me, a visa is not required.

Answer 1

You have not said what the offence is.  However, a year's probation indicates either a minor offence or a relatively minor part in a more serious offence.  

You must declare the conviction if asked.  Now, if it is a relatively minor offence, the officer will be more interested in whether you can show that you (a) have sufficient funds for your trip and (b) intend to return to the USA.

As with entry to the USA, the final decision (in practice) rests with the immigration officer at the port of entry.  If you can satisfy the officer on the two points listed above, I think you have a reasonable chance of being allowed in.  However, whilst you can prepare to give yourself the best chance, you cannot do anything that will guarantee entry.  Having said that, if I were to place a small wager, I would bet on you getting in.

Answer 2

If your passport has a stamp stating your conviction, you will not be able to gain entry into the UK even with other documentation - it's your passport that is your means of entry.  If your passport does not show anything negative, no problem, you'll get in.

Answer 3

Wait until you are done and try. You still might be rejected by the country of choice

Answer 4

Sure. Just do what the terrorists do, travel through Canada on the way!

Answer 5

You can travel at will. As long as your parol officer isn't stopping by your home or you don't have to go to court or to see your parole officer, then they will NEVER know. In fact, WITH a WARRANT for a DUI I traveled to Mexico and back by plane with no problems. I have also drove to Canada a million times while on probation.

Answer 6

I think you need to check with the British Embassy we also have very tight security in this country not just the USA .i would suspect that your parole officer would have a duty to inform immigration of your intent to travel

Answer 7

Keep your mouth shut and head off.  In over 20 years of travel around most of this planet I've never been asked if I had a criminal record, nor am I aware of a record precluding people from travel to the EU.  When you travel, don't volunteer any information - you are one of thousands moving that day.  Make sure your passport is valid - any visa requirements are met.  Have your destination address handy.

The prosecutor said it was OK for you to travel so you don't have to worry about it in the US.  End of story!

Most important - enjoy your trip.