Canada is very serious about DUI convictions and has rigid laws for this offence. This raises the question: Does a DUI show up on your passport? Well, no, a DUI does not show up on your passport. However, some major consequences can affect your visa and travelling procedures.

Passports are travel documents containing basic identity and citizenship information, such as name, birthdate, nationality, and photo. They do not contain criminal records, driving records, or police information. Although no criminal record information is visible in your passport, travellers are right to be concerned about DUI convictions, as they may show up in immigration checks at international borders.

So, here’s what you need to know if you’re planning international travel with a DUI conviction in Canada.

What is a DUI Charge?

DUI charge is caused by driving a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. It is a serious offence in Canada and is considered a criminal act. The Criminal Code of Canada prohibits any individual from operating any motor vehicle while impaired to any degree by drug, alcohol, or both combined.

You may suffer serious consequences and penalties for a DUI conviction, and it can go from a mandatory minimum fine to a lifetime imprisonment. Of course, the penalty depends on the severity of the offence.

Quick Facts: DUI and Your Passport

  • DUI convictions do NOT appear on your passport document
  • Border authorities CAN access your criminal record through databases
  • USA generally allows entry with a single DUI
  • Canada considers DUI grounds for “serious criminality” (as of December 2018)
  • Multiple DUIs significantly complicate international travel
  • Record suspension can help ease travel restrictions

Consequences of a DIU Conviction on Visa and Travel Procedures

A passport is a document that is provided to citizens by the government. It is a legal document of your identity and citizenship while travelling in other countries. There is no mention of any criminal records, including DUI, in your passport. However, you might face some issues, such as:

Visa Rejection

Some countries may ask for your criminal records when you apply for a visa. In that case, you must provide your criminal records, including DUI charges. Depending on your destination, a DUI conviction can result in the rejection of your visa application. Especially in Canada, one may be considered inadmissible due to a DUI conviction. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) can deny entry even for a single DUI conviction.

Travel Restrictions

In some cases, a DUI can result in restrictions placed by your country. In that case, you must get permission from the relevant authority to travel abroad. Countries like the USA, Mexico, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iran, and New Zealand have strict policies against DUI offences.

Rejection of the International Driving Permit (IDP)

The IDP is a document that enables you to drive in other countries. A DUI conviction can make the process very difficult. There is a possibility of not getting an IDP in some countries due to a DUI charge. Also, they may impose some conditions and restrictions on what kind of vehicle you can drive.

Contact an experienced DUI Lawyer to consult about your DUI case before travelling.

Impact and Allowance of DUI Situation in Canada

Driving under the influence or impaired driving is a major cause of death and injury in Canada. In 2023, 49 people died from alcohol or drug-related crashes, and nearly 400 people were killed in motor vehicle collisions in Ontario. Also, the numbers are significantly increasing every year.

In Canada, you are impaired to any degree by drugs, alcohol, or both while driving, which is a criminal offence. There is a limit to some of the drugs and alcohol. Having the rest in your system while driving is completely prohibited.

  1. Alcohol: In the case of alcohol, the limit of BAC (Blood-Alcohol Concentration) is 80 mg or more per 100 ml of blood.
  2. Cannabis: On the other hand, the cannabis (THC) limit is considered less serious if it is between 2-5 ng per ml of blood. It gets serious if the number is 5 or higher.
  3. Alcohol and Cannabis combined: If alcohol and cannabis are combined, there can not be more than 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood and 2.5 ng or more of THC per ml of blood.
  4. Other Drugs:  It is against the law to have any amount of LSD, magic mushrooms, ketamine, cocaine, or any other drug that can be found.

Investigation Methods of DUI for Canadian Citizens

Depending on the situation, the investigation method can change. Here are some common techniques used by the police:

  • Alcohol Screening
  • Oral Fluid Screening
  • Other Alternative Methods

Final Words

Although a DUI charge does not show in your passport, it impacts your international travels. It will reduce your chances of entering some countries and change your personal life. It is better to understand and obey the driving rules of your country.

Also, you must research the requirements of entering your desired country and prepare the necessary documents. As a result, it will enhance your travel experiences and enable you to explore your desired country. Therefore, drive safely and obey the driving rules of your country.

FAQs

Will you be asked about a criminal record when renewing your Canadian passport?

A DUI does not automatically prevent you from obtaining or renewing a Canadian passport. The passport application process does not include questions about criminal records, and a DUI conviction alone will not result in denial.

Is DUI a criminal offence?

Well, it depends on the country. DUI is considered a criminal offence in Canada and will be listed in your criminal records.

Will I lose my license for a DUI?

Of course. The police will suspend your driving license on the spot. Depending on the degree of offence, they can revoke your license even for a lifetime.