I had a drink driving charge. Do I need a visa?
Applicants with any drink-driving charges are advised to apply for a visa and not to use the Visa Waiver Program. Most short term visitors traveling for business or pleasure apply for a B-1/B-2 business/tourist visa. All applicants applying for a U.S. visa must appear in person for an interview at the U.S. Consulate serving the state in which they reside. Depending on your individual situation, at the time of your interview you may be referred to a panel physician for evaluation. If this requirement applies to you, you will be supplied with the names and contact details of the panel physician along with a letter explaining the need for this examination. Please Note: An appointment with a panel physician is the responsibility of the individual and is entirely dependent on the availability of the panel physician. Neither the Consulate nor any individual panel physician can guarantee an appointment before a fixed travel date.
A single drink driving charge which didn’t involve a jail sentence does not preclude you from using the Visa Waiver Program. When completing the Visa Waiver Program questionnaire given to you on the aircraft you must answer yes to the question have you been arrested or charged. Consequently, you need to carry with you documentation (e.g. court records) to show you were not jailed. If you do not have this documentation, it is advisable to apply for a visa. More…
