Wednesday, 14 May 2014

Pub brawls, street fights, and criminal mishaps; can it effect you from entering the US?

The recent brawl witnessed in Bondi between James Packer and David Gyngell most likely was an embarrassment for those involved, but also illustrates how public altercations may effect global migration, especially to the U.S.  While no charges have been filed in this particular case, it highlights that most people might not realise there are consequences for such an incident and could make them unable to enter into the U.S.

Melissa Vincenty, a US Immigration Lawyer in Sydney and senior lawyer at Nevett Ford, notes “this would certainly strain their ability to oversee their business ventures in the U.S. or visit friends and family there. “

Certain assault charges and convictions could rise to what is known as a ‘crime involving moral turpitude’ (CIMT).  It is quite a broad term that includes crimes such as assault, drug crimes, shoplifting, check fraud or even graffiti convictions.  Merely an arrest for a CIMT could make someone ineligible to use the convenient Visa Waiver Program and a conviction may have more dire consequences. 

While this may not permanently bar someone from travels to the U.S., it could certainly cramp these jetsetter’s lifestyles which could delay travel for many months. 

For individuals who seek to travel to the US, it is strongly recommended to contact a qualified US Immigration Lawyer to discuss your visa options.


To connect to a qualified US Immigration Lawyer contact our specialist US Immigration team.

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