Reviewed by a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (licensed by the CICC)Last updated:
Short answer
Yes, a DUI (impaired driving) conviction can make you inadmissible to Canada, and since December 18, 2018 it is treated as serious criminality. You may overcome it with criminal rehabilitation once five years have passed since you completed your sentence, or with a temporary resident permit if you have a justified reason to travel sooner.
Why a DUI matters
Canada raised the maximum penalty for impaired driving in 2018, so a DUI is now considered serious criminality for immigration purposes. Offences committed after December 18, 2018 are generally not eligible for deemed rehabilitation, which means the passage of time alone does not fix it.
Your options
| Option | When it fits | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal rehabilitation | 5+ years after completing your full sentence, including probation and fines | Permanent solution |
| Temporary resident permit (TRP) | You have a good reason to travel now | Temporary entry for a set period |
| Legal opinion letter | Your offence may not be equivalent to a Canadian offence | Supports entry at the border |
What to prepare
- Court records showing the charge, conviction and sentence
- Proof you completed the sentence, probation and payments
- Police and FBI or national background checks
- Evidence of rehabilitation: employment, community involvement, no further offences
- For a TRP, a clear reason for travel and its benefit
Frequently asked questions
I had one DUI ten years ago. Am I fine?
If the offence was before December 18, 2018, deemed rehabilitation may apply after ten years, depending on the facts. We review the records to confirm.
Does this affect permanent residence?
Yes. Inadmissibility must be resolved before PR can be approved.
Information on this site is general and is not legal advice. We never guarantee approvals. Only Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) makes decisions on applications.