Following Donald Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in New York, questions have arisen regarding his ability to travel internationally. While some have claimed his conviction would severely restrict his travel options, the reality is more nuanced. This article examines the complexities of international travel for a convicted felon, focusing on the specific case of Donald Trump and his potential future travel plans.
International Laws and Travel Restrictions for Felons
Many countries have laws that allow them to deny entry to individuals with criminal records. Gregory Germain, a law professor at Syracuse University College of Law, notes that over 38 countries possess such laws. However, the decision to allow or deny entry ultimately rests with each individual country.
Some have alleged that Trump is barred from entering numerous countries, including the UAE, UK, Canada, and South Africa, but these claims require further examination. Each country has its own specific regulations and potential waivers.
Canada’s Stance on Felons Entering the Country
Canada, for example, is known to deny entry to convicted felons. However, Canadian law also provides avenues for felons to enter the country under certain circumstances. A temporary resident permit can be requested for up to three years, or an individual can apply for Criminal Rehabilitation, which offers a permanent solution for criminally inadmissible foreign nationals.
Given that Canada will host the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15 to 17, 2025, and Trump is expected to attend, the Canadian immigration minister may need to issue a special visa to allow his entry.
Canadian immigration officials may need to issue Trump a special visa to enter the country for the G7 summit.
South Africa’s Invitation Despite Restrictions
South Africa also has laws restricting entry for convicted felons. Despite this, President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated Trump after the 2024 U.S. presidential elections and expressed anticipation for hosting him during the #G20 Heads of State Summit. This suggests a willingness to accommodate Trump’s visit, even with his conviction.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa looks forward to hosting President-Elect Trump during the G20 Heads of State Summit.
The United Kingdom’s Position
Claims that Trump “cannot enter the UK” are also false. British officials have indicated a willingness to extend an invitation to Trump for a state visit, signaling that his conviction is not an insurmountable barrier to entry. In fact, Trump could potentially become the first elected politician in modern history to be hosted for two state visits by the British royal family.
Historical Precedent: George W. Bush’s Canadian Waiver
It’s important to note that Trump wouldn’t be the first U.S. President to require a special waiver for international travel due to a criminal record. In 2001, former President George W. Bush applied for a special waiver to enter Canada for the 3rd Summit of the Americas due to a 1976 misdemeanor conviction for drunk driving.
Trump’s Previous International Travel as President
During his presidency, Trump made several international trips. His first foreign trip included stops in Saudi Arabia, Israel, the Palestinian territories, Brussels, the Vatican, and Sicily. His second trip was to Poland in June 2017, followed by the G20 Summit in Germany.
President Trump’s first foreign trip as president included a visit to Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
While Donald Trump’s felony conviction may present some challenges to international travel, it does not necessarily preclude him from visiting other countries. Each country has the authority to decide whether to allow him entry, considering factors such as the nature of the conviction and the purpose of the visit. As demonstrated by the examples of Canada, South Africa, and the UK, political considerations and diplomatic relations can often override strict legal restrictions. Therefore, it is premature to definitively state that Trump is barred from traveling internationally.
