Convicted felons likely will have no problem obtaining a passport. A passport cannot prove you will commit a crime or validate your character as a person. Passports are identity documents only, providing proof of citizenship to a particular country. Unless you have ever attempted to overthrow the United States government or have committed treason of any kind, you are eligible to apply for and to receive a passport, save a few federal caveats:

Compulsory Passport Application Denial

• Federal law does prohibit you from getting a passport if you are a convicted drug trafficker who has crossed an international border to commit the crime.
• You are subject to federal arrest or felony-related subpoena.
• You have been forbid by court order, probation, or parole to depart the United States.
• Loans incurred while a prisoner abroad have not been repaid.
• If you are imprisoned or under a supervised release program for felonious possession or distribution of a controlled substance, whether at the federal or state level.

Convicted Felons Can Be Denied a US Passport

If you are a convicted felon who has completed your sentence and want to travel abroad, the first step is to obtain a passport. Your felony record alone may not be a barrier to obtaining the passport, but you could be denied a passport under the following circumstances:

• You owe $2,500 or more in back child support;
• You’ve been convicted of drug trafficking;
• A court order forbids you from traveling abroad;
• As a condition of probation or parole, you’ve been barred from traveling outside the US;
  You’re currently under a supervised release program for a felony, or possession or distribution of a controlled substance on the state or federal level.

The US Secretary of State can ask for passport application denial if you are deemed a serious threat to national security or US foreign policy, here or abroad.

What if a felon already has a passport?

If you are a convicted felon who already possesses a US passport, it can be revoked or restricted if you fall under the disqualifications noted above. If the passport was originally obtained, altered, or utilized under false pretense, meaning fraud, it could be revoked. Also, your passport can be invalidated for travel through some countries in which the United States has formally declared war or if there is a clear and present danger to the passport holder. The Secretary of State holds this power to invalidate, revoke, or restrict your otherwise valid passport. Check the Federal Register for details.

Do your research at the US State Department web site before you go. Some countries will not even issue you a visa if you are a convicted felon. Canada will not allow you to enter the country if you even have drunken driving convictions on your record.

As a tangent concern, a travel insurance policy or simple travel insurance may not be obtainable if you are currently serving time for a felony conviction. Insurance companies tend to deny those who put their lives in danger, especially habitual drunken drivers or others putting themselves into felonious situations.

The bottom line is this: if you are a convicted felon, you can get your passport as long as you do not have any federal court mandate stating otherwise, or any other compelling reason that the US Secretary of State can issue a discretionary denial.

Motorists can travel without restriction across the United States. No identity papers, travel insurance papers, or other documents are required for intra- or interstate travel. The only drivers required to stop periodically are semi drivers who must have their trucks weighed at weighing posts. Besides border crossings where you must present identification and/or proof of citizenship, motorists may encounter roadblocks due to accidents or construction and sobriety checkpoints.

Sobriety checkpoints are essential police deterrents against drunken driving or driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Many question the constitutionality and legality of such checkpoints and the ensuing privacy issues. Both state and federal courts have addressed the fourth amendment right against unreasonable search and seizure, but only the Supreme Court can interpret constitutionality of such checkpoints.

Every state in the United States classifies blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) to be legally impaired when it reaches 0.08 percent or above. At 0.05 percent the probability of fatality in an alcohol-related crash is significant. When it hits that 0.08 mark, probability will rise dramatically. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimated in 2008 that 8,104 deaths might have been prevented that year if those people had BACs less than 0.08. This, in turn, may serve to bring down travel insurance policy costs.

The Center for Disease Control estimates that well-publicized and frequent sobriety checkpoints can reduce fatality between 18 to 24 percent. About one in 88 is arrested for driving over the 0.08 legal limit in the U.S. The main purpose of a sobriety checkpoint or roadblock is deterrence, not arrest. If you wish not to go through the checkpoint, simply find another route to your destination, as checkpoints must be announced well in advance. For those traveling through an area designated for a checkpoint, and if you are unfamiliar with the locale, and have no GPS to guide you around the checkpoint, simply approach and you will either be waved on or told to stop. Most drivers are through the checkpoint in a minute or two if there is no reason to detain you for further testing due to alcohol impairment.

Sobriety checkpoints must display checkpoint warning signs to motorists and vehicles are not stopped at random, but in a sequence of every fourth car or whatever number is designated ahead of time by law enforcement personnel setting up the site. Police cannot administer breath tests unless reasonably certain that the driver has been drinking.

Although the U.S. Supreme Court in Michigan vs. Sitz upheld the constitutionality of sobriety checkpoints, state courts in Alaska, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming found that conducting sobriety checkpoints or roadblocks are illegal. All 39 other states can legally conduct sobriety checkpoints. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Highway Loss Data Institute lists each state court decision and its citation on their web site.

When planning your next vacation do some research and find out just where in the world you can stretch your dollar the furthest. That is, travel where the US Dollar is trading the strongest. This doesn’t mean you have to forgo all the amenities and stay in a youth hostel for a week, sharing bathrooms with strangers in a country with little sights to see. You can go on some fabulous vacations on the cheap, if you just know where to look.

Use Currency Tools
Look to the greenback and which country’s local currencies are trading the most for your dollar. Visit websites like:
•    X-rates.com – Use their converter to see what the American dollar is worth in different countries.
•    Economist.com – Compare currencies using their foreign exchange map.
•    Google.com – Convert currencies with their easy to use tool or look up articles about currency exchange rates.
•    The news – Watch and listen to the news to find out about economies in different countries and what the dollar is trading for at the time.

Do It Backwards
Many people plan where they want to go first then figure out the finances of how to get there later. Finding out the most inexpensive places to travel to, then picking which one you are interested in is traveling on the cheap—but not getting less for your money. Sometimes going on a two-week vacation to a place like India or Nicaragua can cost less than going to New York City or Los Angeles.

Be Flexible
You may plan your trip six months in advance; say you choose to vacation in Nepal because the dollar is strong there. What if the currency flips and the trip will cost tons more than first thought? If you book your trip in advance, be sure to purchase trip cancellation insurance coverage, the policy is a lot cheaper than losing the money you’ve already paid on your trip and even less costly than losing money on a weaker dollar. Have a back up place picked out, where the dollar is trading strong and looks to be holding fast. You can always visit your first pick later on when the dollar is stronger.

Visit a Place You Might Not Have Thought About
Many countries have bad raps for crime against tourists and for being unfriendly, but these kinds of things can happen anywhere. Find the safest regions of these countries and plan your trip with safety in mind. You can purchase travel medical insurance to give you peace of mind.  Then research regions that are known to be safe in such countries as Nicaragua, Cambodia, Northern Cyprus, India, or Zambia; where they may not be the most popular destinations, but the culture is lively, the scenery is beautiful and the towns are historic. And you get a lot of vacation and wonderful experiences for your dollar.

For the average American tourist – armed with nothing more than a plane ticket, a suitcase, and some travel insurance – a vacation to Cuba is still not an option. The trade embargo that the US imposed against Cuba in the 1960s includes the money that would be spent in casual travel to the country. Though many Americans risk heavy fines and criminal charges to travel to there, the only way a US citizen can officially visit Cuba is with a valid license from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

General licenses allow their holders to travel to Cuba and spend only the amount of money necessary to travel. Travelers that may be eligible for general licenses are:

• U.S. persons with close relatives in Cuba who wish to visit their family
• Journalists and news crews can travel for the purpose of journalistic activities
• Official government travelers on official business
• Members of international organizations of which the United States is also a member, that are traveling on official business
• Full-time researchers traveling for academic research
• Full-time professionals traveling for a meeting or conference

Those who are ineligible for general licenses might be able to apply for a specific license. There are several categories of specific licenses.
Specific Licenses may be granted to those wishing to visit close relatives in Cuba who are non-Cuban nationals. These licenses must be applied for directly to the Office of Foreign Assets Control.

There are also specific licenses for educational institutions, allowing students and employees of US institutions trips to Cuba relating to academic studies.

There are a number of traveler categories that fall under this license:

• Undergraduate or graduate students that are participating in an educational program
• People doing non-commercial research in Cuba as part of their pursuit of a degree
• Teachers regularly employed at a US institution who will be participating in an educational program
• Cuban scholars teaching or engaging in a program at a US institution
• Full-time employees of a US institution preparing for an academic program

In addition to specific licenses for individuals working for religious organizations, there are some other travelers that may be granted specific licenses on a case-by-case basis.

• Those engaged in humanitarian or human rights projects
• Free-lance journalists with a proven publication history
• Professionals doing research or attending a meeting that do not necessarily meet the requirements of the general license.
• Those engaged in religious activities that are not authorized by a religious organization
• Performers or athletes engaged in a public performance, competition, or exhibition
• Private foundations or research/educational institutions that collect information related to Cuba for non-commercial purposes.
• Those engaged in legal activities relating to licensed exportation

Over the years, the regulations restricting U.S. citizens’ travel to Cuba have changed, so even if you feel like you may meet one of the license categories, it’s always a good idea to check with the Office of Foreign Assets Control before you buy that ticket, pack that bag, or get that travel insurance policy.

Canada is America’s neighbor to the north. It is a beautiful place with plenty of things to see and do, with vast mountains, snowy terrain, and beautiful landscapes. Many Americans like to visit Canada each year and spend some time there for a vacation or to sightsee. While Canada is part of North America, there are still some requirements that US citizens must abide by in order to enter the country.

First, a valid passport is needed to come into the nation of Canada. Passports must have photo identification along with other information such as: your name, birth date, social security number, and other items. Passports are valid for approximately ten years from the date of issue, so if you already have one, be sure it is still valid. Invalid passports will be denied. The Canadian Border Service determines whether or not a visitor can enter into the country, and can decide to deny entry at their discretion. If you travel to Canada, having a good travel insurance policy is recommended in case you lose your belongings, money, or identification. There are some instances where people without a passport can still be allowed access into Canada.

If you do not have a passport, a valid US driver’s license, birth certificate, and your expired passport are required, if you have one. These must all be original documents and copies will not be accepted. Visas are not required, unless you plan to stay in Canada longer than 180 days. People with criminal charges cannot enter Canada unless a proper waiver is obtained. Children under sixteen must show proof of US citizenship, and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Proof of guardianship must be provided along with identification such as a birth certificate. Live plants and animals cannot be brought into Canada from the United States, and vice versa. Of course, firearms cannot be brought in unless a special permit is shown. It is a good idea to get some travel medical insurance in case you get sick or injured while out of the country. This insurance will help to cover any medical expenses you incur while on your trip. Making sure you have all of the necessary documents in advance will help to ensure a smooth and much faster entry into the country of Canada. Once you’re there, enjoy all of the wonderful culture and beauty that Canada has to offer.

Visas are required for all U.S. citizens traveling to the United Kingdom and are usually applied for upon arrival.

After you disembark from the plane, you will be standing in a line, or queue, awaiting a brief interview from the Immigration Officer who will stamp your passport with a visa set to expire six months from the date of entry into the U.K.

Before you land, you will be asked to fill in a white, non-immigrant visa landing card that you will present to the immigration officer, along with your passport. That officer will ask you questions about the purpose of your visit, length of stay, and whether this is this a return trip to the United States or if you going on to a different country after your visit to the U.K.

The officer will likely ask to see your return airline ticket and evidence of funds for your stay, and any travel insurance papers; as well as where you will be staying and if you’ve already made reservations, and any letters substantiating your visit from employers or schools.

You may be asked more questions, you may be asked less questions. It’s best to have all your papers handy upon arrival. Some people feel their papers are safer locked in their suitcase under their plane, thinking that they will grab their luggage after they arrive and then go through immigration control. This will do you no good during your interview. You must have your papers on you to be granted entry through the checkpoint.

Most interviews take a minute or less and your visitor’s visa is stamped within your passport with a date. If you need a visa before you arrive to the United Kingdom, you will have to obtain an entry clearance visa. Some people simply prefer to get the visa out of the way before getting to the U.K., others need special clearance due to criminal history or if there was a previous expulsion from the country. If your stay will be longer than six months, for work, school or family reasons, then you will be ask to register with the police. There is an associated fee.

Visitor visas may be tagged as follows:

• family visitor
• business visitor
• tourist and shoppers
• social functions, including marriage
• attending cultural events such as art shows or concerts
• extended layovers

Visitors to the United Kingdom should have travel medical insurance although their visa allows for emergency service under the National Health Service. Non-emergency service can still be administered through National Health, but will need to be paid for at the time of service.

Mexican travelers wanting to come to the U.S. must have a visa to enter. There is an application, documentation and interview process required before a visa is issued. Also, names are collected and cross-checked in a U.S. Government database. The process involved in obtaining a U.S. visa is designed to ensure the safety of U.S. citizens and visitors. Due to the extensive nature of the process, it may take several weeks to obtain a visa. Sufficient time should be allowed for the application process to complete before your visit.

How to Apply
Submit a new DS-160 Non-Immigrant Visa Electronic Application. To complete the form visit the U.S. Embassy website. After submitting the form, you will need to print out the confirmation page with a bar code to bring to your appointment. Next you will need to schedule your appointment to visit the visa center at the U.S. Consulate nearest to you.

Pay the Fee
You are required to pay an application fee paid in PESOS of $131US. Pay the fee at a BANAMEX branch before your appointment. Bring the receipt with you, as you will be required to present it during processing at your appointment.

Getting an Appointment
Make an appointment early to visit the Visa Section of your local Consulate to avoid delaying your trip. The Visa Section is not open on holidays and is much busier closer to holidays, so plan ahead. You can schedule your appointment on the Internet by visiting the US Embassy website. You may also see wait times for interviews on the site as well. Do not arrive at your appointment more than 30 minutes ahead of time, because you will not be able to enter the Visa Section.

Documentation
You must have your entire documentation ready before your visa interview. You will need to take the following to your appointment:

1. A passport valid for at least 6 months after your interview. Your passport should have a blank page available to attach a visa. If no pages are available, you must obtain a new passport before your interview.
2. Your voting card (IFE Card)
3. Visa application forms or the print out of the bar code from your electronic application. You can fill out an application the day of your appointment, but it will cause delay in your appointment time.
4. Additional documentation detailing your employment, reason for travel, and current financial status. These documents are to show you have the means and the intention to return to Mexico at the end of your visit to the U.S.

Emergency Visas
A limited number of emergency visas are allocated to those who fit into a certain criteria due to a medical emergency, a late breaking business matter or to appear in a U.S. court. Check with your local Consulate for details.

Delivery of Your Visa
Most visas will arrive at your house by a delivery service contracted by the U.S. Embassy. Be prepared to complete a form and pay for the delivery fee at the time of delivery.

Travel Insurance
To enter the U.S., travel insurance isn’t required, but is highly advised. Don’t forget to get a travel insurance policy before your trip. Protect yourself while out of your home country.

The United States is one of the largest countries in the world. It is an expansive area of land that has just about everything: sunny beaches, snow-capped mountains, desert plains, and swampland. There are plenty of wonderful things to see, do, and experience. The US is a beautiful place to visit or explore. If you’re interested in traveling freely throughout the United States, there are a few important things to remember.

First, if you’re coming from another country, you will need to have a legal, up to date passport before you can enter. If you plan on staying longer than a few weeks or if you’re opting to work in the United States, a work visa will need to be shown. It is advised that you purchase some kind of travel insurance policy to help protect your belongings in the event of loss or theft. Most single trip travel insurance policies also help cover any medical expenses you may incur while on your trip. Talk to a travel agent before you book the trip to find out what kinds of things are covered and how you can use the policy.

Driver’s licenses are very common forms of identification used in the United States. You must have a valid driver’s license in order to operate any kind of vehicle in the US once you are of legal driving age. If you have a foreign license, you should be able to drive, but it’s a good idea to check with the local jurisdiction you will be visiting. If you do not have a driver’s license and need to produce identification for some reason, a passport should suffice. Since passports have a photograph and other information to provide positive identification, you should always carry it with you in case it might be needed.

Once you’re inside the United States, you should be able to travel by bus or train fairly easily. Depending on where you are, there is much to see and do while visiting. National parks and landmarks as well as amusement parks, shopping, and many other attractions are available to see and visit in every state. Enjoy the beauty and diversity that can be found in the United States, and be sure to get the most out of your visit by having all of the documentation needed so you can travel freely.