
Taylor Swift
Emma McIntyre/TAS24/Getty Imagesa lot Taylor Swift fans expressed their shock after learning they may not be able to cross the Canadian border for Eras Tourlast stop in Vancouver.
For some Swifties, their biggest worry is that either they or someone in their traveling party will not be allowed into Canada because of a previous DUI. Canadian law restricts entry at the border to anyone who has committed or been convicted of a crime. Some of the offenses in this category include theft, assault, manslaughter, dangerous driving and drink driving.
According to Canada official government websitedriving while intoxicated — which includes being under the influence of alcohol or drugs — is considered an inadmissible offense. This means that any passenger who has received a DUI is ineligible to enter the country under Commonwealth immigration laws.
However, a Canadian immigration officer will decide whether each person can enter Canada when they arrive at the border or when they apply for a visa. A passenger may also log in if they are granted record suspension.
If the traveler has a valid reason to visit Canada, they may be issued a temporary residence permit. The permit also comes with a processing fee of $239.75 CAD, which comes to about $170 USD.
however with a concert ticket – even for The Tour of the Ages — may not be a good enough reason to be allowed into the country.
Many Swifties have taken to social media for help from others who have been in their shoes. While some considered playing it safe by considering selling their coveted tickets, others wondered if trying to cross the border would be worth the risk. Fellow fans offered advice and encouraged them to talk to an immigration attorney about the matter before the trip.
For Swifties who are worried about whether they qualify, there are some steps they can take that can increase their chances of successfully entering the country. Travelers can present their case to the border agent, explaining that they meet the legal requirements to be considered rehabilitated, meaning that enough time has passed since the crime was committed. In all cases, a person can be considered rehabilitated if the crime committed has a maximum term of imprisonment of less than 10 years. Canada also considers someone rehabilitated if at least five years have passed since the crime was committed and the person has had no further run-ins with the law.
It is important to note that every situation is different. Attempting to cross the border while a person has a DUI on their record is a risky maneuver, as the decision will be at the discretion of each border agent.
Some fans shared online that they were rejected by the agent immediately. Others advise risk-takers to be polite to agents during their meetings.
Swift’s concerts in Vancouver begin on Friday, December 6. The pop star will take to the stage for three nights before bidding Eras Tour farewell on Sunday, December 8.