For many years, some hunters and fishermen looking for adventure in Canada may have been heartbroken to find out at the border they were denied entry due to a single drunk driving charge (DUI/OWI/DWI) or other misdemeanor, no matter how far back in their past it occurred.
However, as of March, 2012, the Canadian Border Services Agency CBSA was directed to follow a new, more forgiving policy which may allow one-time offenders to enjoy a Canadian fishing or hunting adventure. Visitors should keep in mind Border Services Agents always have the final call on admissible entry into Canada and may consider how recently the offence was committed.
The new policy enables visitors to receive a free, one-time only Temporary Immigration Permit in lieu of the usual $200 fee, though until a permanent policy is approved it is unclear if this permit will only allow one entry or is good for a certain period of time. For repeat visits, sportsmen with an offence on their record will probably have to explore Canada’s “rehabilitation” process, which will require a fee. You will find additional information on this by clicking on this link.
This new entry policy was reportedly approved in response to protests from outfitters and lodge owners, particularly from northwest Ontario, who were tired of seeing sportsmen and tourists denied their vacation of a lifetime, often at the last minute, for offences deemed misdemeanors in the U.S. that could have happened 20 years earlier.
Mike Loewen, executive director of a regional tourist council that represents more than 200 resorts, lodges and outfitters in northwestern Ontario, told the Minneapolis Star Tribune, "The restrictions have cost millions of dollars just in northwestern Ontario over the years. People are being turned away who shouldn't be. We're not saying let criminals in, but someone who made a minor indiscretion years ago shouldn't be prevented from coming here to fish."
