I was charged with a DUI in March of 2011 but not actually convicted until June of this year. It was a horrible mistake and I regret it every day of my life even though it was really only considered an offense because I "blew over" at a stop, not because I was actually intoxicated. I passed the field sobriety tests, but the breathalyzer got me...Anyway, I have learned to accept responsibility.
I have applied and been accepted to a school in Vancouver and have everything done except student loans. I only found out the DUI will cause me a problem tonight, and have been so upset about it. I want to call the school and talk to them, but they're three hours behind me and my advisor is out of the office until Wednesday. I have read it's possible to enter Canada under new laws that allow a one-time fee waiver of the TRP, but I don't know how this affects student visas. I was assessed by the court-ordered alcohol assessment program and determined to not pose any threat for alcoholism or a repeat offense - I don't know if this matters. I have seen that I could be deemed inadmissible, but I have also read about some students being able to obtain a visa even with a DUI conviction.
If anyone has any information, I would really appreciate it. I plan on speaking with someone Wednesday, but I would really be grateful for any information I could receive in the meantime. I feel like I am watching my dream vanish, and I would really like to know that there is a chance I could still make this happen.
Also: I have visited the Canadian government's website regarding this issue and have read several articles, but they all seem to say a lot of things like "This is possible IF" or "You MAY be able to do this"...I am just looking for anyone with personal experience or legal knowledge of this situation. Thanks so much in advance.
I have applied and been accepted to a school in Vancouver and have everything done except student loans. I only found out the DUI will cause me a problem tonight, and have been so upset about it. I want to call the school and talk to them, but they're three hours behind me and my advisor is out of the office until Wednesday. I have read it's possible to enter Canada under new laws that allow a one-time fee waiver of the TRP, but I don't know how this affects student visas. I was assessed by the court-ordered alcohol assessment program and determined to not pose any threat for alcoholism or a repeat offense - I don't know if this matters. I have seen that I could be deemed inadmissible, but I have also read about some students being able to obtain a visa even with a DUI conviction.
If anyone has any information, I would really appreciate it. I plan on speaking with someone Wednesday, but I would really be grateful for any information I could receive in the meantime. I feel like I am watching my dream vanish, and I would really like to know that there is a chance I could still make this happen.
Also: I have visited the Canadian government's website regarding this issue and have read several articles, but they all seem to say a lot of things like "This is possible IF" or "You MAY be able to do this"...I am just looking for anyone with personal experience or legal knowledge of this situation. Thanks so much in advance.
