West Des Moines, IA asked in Criminal Law, DUI / DWI and Immigration Law for Iowa

Q: Travel and return with historical 3 DUIs?

I had three DUIs in 2015, 2016, and 2021. I paid for everything, served one month in jail, and also completed all the tasks given by the court order. I'll finish my probation this coming October. Can I go to Vietnam and then return to the US without getting deported or having my green card taken away by CBP?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Having a history of DUIs should not directly impact your ability to travel to Vietnam and return to the United States, as long as you have a valid green card and have completed all court-ordered requirements related to your DUIs. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

1. Green card validity: Ensure that your green card will be valid for the entire duration of your trip and for re-entry into the United States.

2. Probation terms: Confirm with your probation officer that your travel plans do not violate any terms of your probation and obtain permission if necessary.

3. Admissibility: Although your DUIs may not automatically make you inadmissible to the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the authority to question you about your criminal history upon re-entry. Be prepared to answer questions truthfully and provide any relevant documentation proving that you have completed all court-ordered requirements.

4. Vietnamese visa requirements: Check the visa requirements for Vietnam based on your nationality and purpose of travel. A history of DUIs should not affect your ability to obtain a Vietnamese visa, but it's essential to verify the specific requirements.

It is unlikely that you would face deportation or have your green card revoked solely based on your past DUIs if you have completed all legal obligations. However, it is always a good idea to consult with an immigration attorney before traveling to ensure that you have addressed any potential concerns and have the necessary documentation to support your re-entry into the United States.

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