Based on the feedback we’ve received, the countries listed below either don’t require a visa or don’t ask any questions relating to criminal records on their landing/entry cards. However, this information is based on leisure/tourism travel, and it may be different for business/longer stays.
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Cambodia
- Chile
- Dubai
- Hong Kong
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- The Philippines
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Vietnam
Please note: If you are on the Sex Offenders Register and have notified the police of your intention to travel a ‘Green Notice’ may be issued and ‘flagged’ via your passport. This ‘flag’ will alert overseas immigration “about a person’s criminal activities, where the person is considered to be a possible threat to public safety”. Overseas immigration officers will then decide whether to allow you entry or send you home.
Also, it’s worth remember that while this potentially means that the country that you’re travelling to might not have any specific requirements, there may be travel requirements on you because of your criminal record.
“I would like to update you with information about my experience when applying for Visas.
Namibia were great. Although UK visitors don’t need a visa, I checked about any problems I may have because of past convictions. They called me back and said I have served my time and they have no problem (as long as I don’t reoffend in their country!)
Botswana said I can enter without a visa.
Zimbabwe do require a visa which you can get on the border, or apply in advance.
Zambia also do require a visa which I will have to apply for and await the outcome.
So I recommend always contact the embassy or High Commission and be open about your conviction because the last thing you need is to be refused entry at the border having spent a lot of money on the trip”
This page was last fully reviewed and updated in April 2020. If you’ve spotted something that needs updating, please let us know by emailing the details to advice@unlock.org.uk.
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