I am writing for a friend of mine, both of us are interested in eventually purchasing property in Canada together. I have a misdemeanor for being an environmental activist performing an illegal act; my friend is a released felon for selling marijuana several years ago.

My friend told me he heard that a U.S. citizen who committed a felony (after serving time) is not allowed entry into Canada (even to visit) unless they receive a special permit.

Is this true, and if so what is the permit called and where can it be obtained?

Is a special VISA required for a U.S. (X-felon) touring Canada?

Is there also such a requirement for a misdemeanor visiting Canada?


Thanks!

See this website for more information: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/

Hello Captain:

That IS the link. I see that the Canadians want to keep their society pure. But, from a practical standpoint, how do the border guards detect and "un-desirable" at their border? Do they have computers linked to something in the US?

What would they do, if I arrived by boat, such as traveling across the Strait of Juan de Fuca? It's just a day trip for us.

excon

Unless you are a very recognizable person (such as Martha Stewart) or someone tips off the border of our potential crossing, I doubt they will figure it out.

However, it is a risk and such risk should not be taken in so lightly.

But if you want to risk it for a day, that is your choice.