Hi folks, First of all a big thanks to all of the previous posters, and long term members who have had to sit through this thread and read the same thing over and over again. I know, it must be annoying! Us newbies here are just worried, probably have already made some decision and need reassurance - please forgive us!
have read the vast majority of this thread, until my eyes are standing out on stalks. As I understand it - the U.S does not share police records with the UK, therefore - if you've never been to the states before, and you have minor offences which don't apply to these following NEW esta questions, then you can confidently tick no and enter with a clear conscience:
- Have you ever been arrested or convicted for a crime that resulted in serious damage to property, or serious harm to another person or government authority?
- Have you ever violated any law related to possessing, using or distributing illegal drugs?
- Do you seek to engage in or have you ever engaged in terrorist activities, espionage, sabotage or genocide?
- Have you ever committed fraud or misrepresented yourself or others to obtain, or assist others to obtain, a visa or entry into the United States?
I am also supposing that even with updated technology fingerprints are not shared either.
I made entry to the US back in 2000, got in no problem (don't think fingerprints were taken). Back then I'd been in bother with the cops twice - once for vandalism way back in 1992, the case was admonished (I painted over what I'd scrawled on a wall) then again about 4 or 5 years later for drunken disorderly/breech of the peace/reckless conduct or something along those lines - basically piling out of a pub drunk after exams and carrying on (I don't remember the incident exactly, but my friend was juggling with bottles from a bottle bank and they smashed all over the ground, cops turned up and we all got charged). Then 10 years ago I was done with drink driving. I've not been in bother since and have kept a clear sheet.
So, I filled out an ESTA, ticked "no" honestly to the above questions as I don't think my "criminal record" is that serious or applies. It came back accepted. So all good - many of you will advise just to sail through customs and enjoy my week in L.A which I have now booked. But - what if I get pulled for the dreaded second inspection? I am someone who can't hide when they are looking uneasy (or lying for that matter). If this happens, what would you advise to do? If I'm asked about past encounters with law enforcement should I tell them flat out yep, I have, and I ticked no on the ESTA form because I didn't think they applied? Or should I just flat out deny it. If I was to tell them - I can't help wondering if it would affect entry.
The new ESTA questions seem contradictory - on one hand, you can answer no to these, if your "crimes" are not of a serious nature - on the other hand, government websites, lawyers etc seem to be advising you don't qualify and need a visa.
apologies if this has already been covered, but I haven't seen many posts covering secondary inspections!
Please help, would really appreciate it.
thanks
) it is 'replies' not reply's'
