I have a criminal record (not spent) traveling to Costa Rica via Newark airport - do I need a VISA ? Help ?

Question

I am not staying in Newark - its just where the flight goes through, I've tried all manner of ways to find out if i'll be ok as i'm not actually staying in the US. Can someone out there please help. Has anyone any idea how i get an e.mail address for Newark Airport immigration

Answer 1

The U.S. Government has the right to deny entry to anyone traveling to or through the United States. I know a French citizen who was traveling to Tahiti. He made a stop in New York and was going to fly direct on the direct flight to Papeete. He had no plans on staying in the USA or even leaving the airport but since he had a previous criminal record (petty theft at a souvenir shop in Florida many years ago) he was denied entry and placed back on a flight to Paris. Even though some countries have  Visa waiver agreement with the USA such as most EU nations, the U.S. has denied such celebrities such as Cat Stevens and Amy Winehouse the right to enter the US due to their beliefs or criminal record.

Here is the official stance from the Customs & Border Patrol Website:

http://help.cbp.gov/cgi-bin/customs.cfg/...

Best thing is to call the closest U.S. consulate or embassy in your country before your trip. Be honest with them and tell them what your record says. They might be able to provide you feedback on what you should do.

Good luck!

Answer 2

all you need to come into Costa Rica is avalid passport