Advice on travelling to America with a criminal record?

Hi,





my uncle booked a holiday to America about 3 weeks ago to see some relatives, however, he has a criminal record from about 20 years ago and didn't realise that this would be a problem as he's never done anything like this before. He was told he needs to contact the American embassy for an interview to get a Visa but the next one available is in June and his flight is in April. He can't get a refund and its too late to get the name changed on the ticket so he stands to lose close to 拢2000.


Is there anything he can do? Is it the travel company's responsibility to make him aware of these things rather than just assume he knows?





thanksAdvice on travelling to America with a criminal record?
No it's his responsibility to know what is required although the travel agency has a responsibility to advise him of the newly introduced USA travel requirements under the visa waiver scheme.


He need to file an online application and get travel authorisation in advance of his travel.


He can do that on:


https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/esta.html?鈥?/a>





Get other advice here:


http://www.britishairways.com/travel/usa鈥?/a>





Please check out both the above and I suggest you read the www.britishairways one first





If he fills in the online questionnaire, he will be advised of the next steps to take.





The outcome will largely depend upon what the criminal record was for and whether he decides to declare it. If it was for something minor 20 years ago, will there still be records? The US government would have no knowledge and would not be able to find out, nor would want to unless there were special circumstances.





If he was trying to emigrate there it would be different, but just for a holiday? Think hard before you fill in the questionnaire.


Good LuckAdvice on travelling to America with a criminal record?
Good luck. In addition to the other posts, more info at: http://www.uk-2-usa.com/absolutebeginner鈥?/a> and http://www.dhs.gov/xtrvlsec/programs/con鈥?/a>
If he used a travel agent then yes they should have helped him apply for the Visa