Skeletons in your closet may keep you out of Canada

Sarah Pascarella has a master's degree in writing, literature, and publishing from Emerson College, where she specialized in magazine writing and nonprofit publishing. She is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the New England Writers association.

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Canadian officials, who now conduct thorough background checks on all incoming foreigners, reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone with an “unacceptable” past offense. Such inadmissible strikes include driving while intoxicated, shoplifting, possession of illegal substances, and assault, among others.

Border agents will be able to screen your legal history upon arrival to determine whether to let you in. If they see you’ve committed an inadmissible offense, there’s a strong chance you will be turned away at the border.

If you think you may be denied entry, you can ask the Canadian government for an “approval of rehabilitation,” which would state that despite your past transgressions, you will be allowed to enter the country. Apply for an approval of rehabilitation at a Canadian visa office in Buffalo, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, or Seattle.

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