Arrest or Conviction -- Yes

Some applicants are uncertain how to answer the question, "Have you ever been arrested or convicted?"

Minor Traffic Offenses

In general, minor motoring offenses outside the United States that were disposed of by paying a ticket by mail have no bearing on admission to the United States. Travelers with minor traffic offenses that did not result in their arrest and/or conviction for the offense may travel visa free, provided they are otherwise qualified. If you are not sure whether or not you are eligible to travel visa free, the only way to resolve this question would be to apply for a visa.

Traffic Offenses in the U.S.

If a traffic offense occurred while you were in the United States, and you have an outstanding fine against you, or if you did not attend your court hearing, it is possible there may be a warrant out for your arrest and you will experience significant problems when applying for admission at the U.S. port of entry. The American Institute in Taiwan cannot assist you in this regard. You must resolve the issue before traveling, by contacting the court where you were to appear. If you do not know the address of the court then information is available from on this website.

Driving under the Influence (DUI)

A single Driving under the Influence (DUI) charge is not considered to be a crime involving moral turpitude. Several DUI charges could be considered a crime involving moral turpitude.

Other Offenses

A prior arrest or conviction does not necessarily exclude a traveler from participating in the Visa Waiver Program. Each individual’s application must be determined on a case-by-case basis. If you are not sure whether or not you are eligible to travel visa free, the only way to resolve this question would be to apply for a visa. For more information about how to apply for a visa at the American Institute in Taiwan, click here.

Would you still like to consider applying for visa free travel?