You must apply for an ESTA online to enter the USA after 12 Jan 2009

dzug1

Stephb1986 wrote: »

He was only just 18 when it happened. Is it really that serious?

yes

When he applies for the ESTA and ticks the yes box the ESTA will be refused and he will be advised to apply for a visa (for which he is in fact ineligible).

The consulate will if they think fit apply for a waiver of ineligibility on his behalf. That may take time depending on whether they have the power to authorise it themselves or need to refer it to Washington. It could take until November - not saying it will, but the possibility is there. You need to get a move on.

Stephb1986_2

by heck I didn't think it would be that serious, he never used the gun just had it messing around. He gave up cannabis a long time ago

I don't really want to go without him, I've not booked yet I wanted to make sure he was allowed to come first.

So are we best ringing the british embassy in London?

giovanni

And I have to say that I absolutely agree with America and I hope it will be like this for people trying to get into the UK, if you commit it a crime it won't be forgotten - however small it may seem to you.

Stephb1986_2

dontdoit wrote: »

You would be better to make an appointment of the US consulate in London. You will need a memorandum of conviction from the court, and also the police national computer records (available from the police)

And yes, its very serious. US don't like anyone with drug convictions, and thats made worse due to the firearms offences.

He's a bloody idiot isn't he. I've always wanted to go to New York and now I might not be able to go

We are from Manchester does that mean he has to go to London?

Sorry for all the questions I'm really worried now

Stephb1986_2

Thanks for that you have been a real help. I'm so gutted now

maisydaisy_2

Dontdoit thankyou so much for the time & effort you put into your reply, it made very interesting reading. Still not sure if we should risk it though, definately dont want to be turned back at immigration!

dzug1

dontdoit wrote: »

And yes, its very serious. US don't like anyone with drug convictions, and thats made worse due to the firearms offences.

Well actually probably not - firearms offences are not viewed that seriously in the USA (gun lobby anyone?) and are not in themselves moral turpitude.

Stephb1986_2

dzug1 wrote: »

Well actually probably not - firearms offences are not viewed that seriously in the USA (gun lobby anyone?) and are not in themselves moral turpitude.

Are you being serious or just trying to make me feel better because at the moment im sat here crying

Steph xx

dzug1

Stephb1986 wrote: »

Are you being serious or just trying to make me feel better because at the moment im sat here crying

Steph xx

I'm being serious - had it not been for the drug offence it would have been quite legitimate (in my view) to tick no to moral turpitude and get the ESTA.

So unlike dontdoit I don't think the firearms offences make it worse.

Stephb1986_2

dzug1 wrote: »

I'm being serious - had it not been for the drug offence it would have been quite legitimate (in my view) to tick no to moral turpitude and get the ESTA.

So unlike dontdoit I don't think the firearms offences make it worse.

Your making me feel a bit better now So we fill in the ESTA and tick yes? for the moral turpitued? and put drug offence and not worry about the firearms offence?

Steph xx