In the state of Alabama, a DUI conviction can greatly impact an individual’s immigration status and ability to travel. This can negatively affect a defendant’s ability to rent a car, travel, and can even impact visa status and naturalization.
Car Rental Restrictions
Car rental companies maintain the right to refuse service to anyone with a DUI. As a result, major car rental companies will likely deny rental service to individuals with a DUI conviction.
The vast majority of car rental companies are strict in terms of DUI arrests and convictions. Convictions taking place anywhere from the past three to six years can continue to impact someone’s ability to rent a vehicle – a significant impact for those who rely on rentals for personal or business travel.
Travel Outside of the United States
Having a DUI conviction on your record can affect your ability to travel to certain countries, whether for business, pleasure, or extended stay. These protocols vary, so it is important to research a country’s individual policies before making travel plans.
There are countries that deny visas due to DUI convictions, while others choose to deny travel entirely. Canada, for example, will not allow anyone with a DUI conviction to obtain a visa.
A DUI conviction can also make it more difficult to travel to a country for short-term business or personal trips. The Canadian consulate requires pre-application for individuals with a DUI.
There are long-term implications involved that not only affect travel to other countries, but travel within the United States as well. In some cases, a felony or repeat offense can change U.S. residency for non-citizens.
U.S. Visa Restrictions
If an individual is not a U.S. citizen, a DUI can lead to major delays in travel and visa renewals.
The state of Alabama may deny or delay green card and work visa renewals. If a defendant does not have proper proof of their legal residency, the state may have them detained in jail for federal immigration pickup.
“Green” card restrictions can also impact air travel to and from the United States, resulting in delays at customs that can last for hours – which can impact connecting flights.
Naturalization and Deportation
In some cases, a conviction can lead to deportation. Individuals are not allowed to take the citizenship exam for five years following a DUI conviction – the timeframe beginning when their case is officially closed.
The risk of deportation is dependent on level of DUI conviction and prior convictions. An individual will be at high risk of deportation of they have multiple criminal convictions while in the United States. A felony-level DUI conviction will also raise this risk – for example, incidents labeled as “serious injury by vehicle” or “homicide by vehicle.
Inter-state Travel with a DUI
Multiple DUIs can trigger The Interstate Compact, restricting travel to other states. This is a risk for defendants who are sentenced to a cumulative probation at least 12 months or more.
The Interstate Compact includes various protocols recognized by states like Alabama who are members of the Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision. If an individual’s conviction triggers this compact, they will be registered into this system for the length of their probation.
While on probation, an offender cannot travel to or move to another state without gaining the permission from both the state of Alabama, as well as the destination state.
Need Somebody in Your Corner?
Understanding the travel and immigration consequences is essential for individuals with a DUI arrest. The potential impact goes far beyond this overview.
To fully understand your risks and pursue the best possible outcome, you must hire reputable legal representation. Having a lawyer in your corner who understands Alabama DUI arrests and convictions could potentially mitigate or reduce immigration and travel consequences.
Align yourself with an Alabama lawyer who specializes in DUIs. Contact the professional legal team at Sheffield and Lentine, P.C. for the guidance you deserve.