Visas and USA

[trueblueange]

My dad had a conviction (resulting in a fine) some 34 years ago. Does he need to apply for a visa into USA or would this be disregarded or nonexistant now as it was so long ago. He's never been in any trouble since, just something he did when he was young and stupid.
Thanks

[jno]

strictly speaking, even if he was just arrested without conviction, yes, he needs a visa. But I would have thought the chances of the Americans finding out about this are pretty tiny. If I were him I'd just ignore this requirement, get on a plane, and fill out the green visa waiver form without mentioning it. (And not draw attention to myself by carrying toothpaste.)

[trueblueange]

I have these visions of getting there and they turn him away but if he knew about this, he would be devastated and would rather not go than apply for a visa. I'm just worried its a big risk not applying.

[lou 26]

I agree with jno, I know of people who have done much worse and still got through with no problems.

[jno]

at the moment I think all their efforts are concentrated on finding travellers who look like Muslims, have beards, talk Arabic etc. As long as your dad looks ordinary, and white, I can't imagine they'd be interested. Are you going with him? They're also not much interested in people who look like they're just average families on a family holiday. Just obey the rules (no bottles of water etc) and don't attract attention and he should be fine.

[trueblueange]

Yes, we are going together, 7 in the party. Dad is very ordinary looking. I'm happy to go along with your advice, but god help me if it blows up in my face, he'll never forgive me or my mother. I know, from speaking to her, that she would rather just forget about it. I'll have to make sure that she fills in his green visa waiver form for him so he doesnt see the question regarding criminal records :o(