Travelling Abroad With Criminal Conviction

[westyorksman]

Hello - I was charged with GBH in May 2008 and recieved a 12month sentence suspended for 12 months and 250hrs community service. I know my conviction will be spent in 10 years - however I intend to travel to Thailand later this year for 3 weeks and then various other places (except USA) over the next few years. I do not intend to 'go travelling' - all my excursions will be 2-3 week holidays. Can anyone give me advice on what barriers I may face and how to overcome them? Cheers.

[bobs1975]

A quick search of the internet tells me you're good to go to Thailand for 3 weeks. For UK passport holders you turn up at the door where a visa is normally granted. Make sure you have return or onward flights. Australia might be a little more tricky. USA - a right pain in the ar8e but not impossible.

[dzug]

As far as I know a criminal record has no relevance to tourists visiting most countries in the world - it's only where immigration is concerned that they become picky.

The USA is of course the notable exception. Canada also has laws but tends not to ask tourists questions on the subject. Neither has the concept of spent convictions but the latter does have what it calls 'rehabilitation'