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blackadder

Newbie
Apr 16, 2009
3
0
I am a UK citizen/UK passport holder who was deported from the US after a felony conviction (driving under the influence) about 3 years ago. I'm aware that "technically" I cannot enter Canada because of this issue, but as a practical matter - as long as I keep quiet about it - how would they have any idea?

I would be flying from the UK on my UK passport and I've heard from reliable sources that unless you are a suspicious person the customs interview is generally very perfunctory (length of stay, itinerary etc.). I suppose my only concern is my biometric, machine-readable passport being "swiped" and me showing up in some sort of database. Does anyone know if that is a concern or if computer searches are done routinely for biometric passport holders from non-visa countries? Or, for that matter, would a computer search on a UK passport holder cover the US criminal database?

I'm planning on visiting family/friends then possibly attempting to stay via non-profit worker type visa, but getting in is my main concern. Thanks!