Serving time in prison is not an automatic bar to international travel for United States citizens. In most cases, upon your release from prison you are considered to have paid your debt to society and are free to travel as you please. However, certain crimes may prevent you from obtaining a passport. You might also be ineligible for international travel as a condition of your parole or probation, or by some other court order. Foreign citizens residing in the United States may be subject to more restrictive rules. In addition, some countries have restrictions that prevent convicted criminals from entering that nation. Each case is different, so investigate your options and limitations well in advance of your trip.

Passport Application

The application for a U.S. passport requires the applicant to affirm that he has never committed treason, attempted or conspired to overthrow the government, or made any demonstration of allegiance to a foreign nation. In addition, the applicant may not have been convicted of a federal or state drug offense or sex tourism. If any of these conditions apply to you, you must submit a statement of explanation made under oath alongside your application. Your application and supplementary statement will be reviewed and a determination of eligibility made by the State Department. If you have outstanding warrants or are currently under subpoena for a federal felony case, you are ineligible for a passport.

Other Passport Considerations

Your passport application may also be denied if you are deemed to pose a serious threat to U.S. foreign policy or national security, if you owe more than $5,000 in back child support, or for various other reasons including court order. Submit your application as far as possible in advance of your trip to allow time for processing.

Visa Restrictions

Each nation sets its own laws for foreign visitors. Some countries require U.S. citizens to obtain visas for tourist travel, while others do not. Virtually all nations require a visa if you intend to work or study in your country of choice. You might be unable to obtain a visa due to your criminal background. For example, Jamaica bars entry to those who are currently under supervision for a felony offense. Visit the local embassy for specific information that applies to your situation.

Non-Visa Entry Considerations

Whether or not you need a visa for a particular country, you might be ineligible for entry due to your criminal background. For example, the United Kingdom generally denies admission to those who have committed a crime punishable by 23 or more months in prison. If you have any criminal background, including a DUI or a misdemeanor, you might need to go through a complicated process before you are eligible to enter Canada. Check with the local embassy for each country you intend to visit.

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