Will this arrest keep me from getting a student visa?

[john_cabal]

I am an American citizen. In the summer of 2010, I was arrested on suspicion of DUI in the United States, while on leave of absence from a Canadian university. I never plead guilty or not guilty; instead, the case was given a continuance pending one year of "good behavior," after which the charge would be dismissed. Later that year, my student visa needed to be renewed, and when I sent in my application (describing the arrest and continuance), my visa was denied. But, then, in summer 2011, the case WAS dismissed, and I have no criminal record of any kind since then (not even a parking ticket).

Now, I am applying to PhD programs, and there are a few schools in Canada where I want to apply. My question is: will the fact that I was arrested four years ago prevent me from getting a student visa? Even though the charges were dismissed? I'd appreciate any help/advice/information.

Thanks,
JC

 

[J5M]

Hi,

I am an American citizen. In the summer of 2010, I was arrested on suspicion of DUI in the United States, while on leave of absence from a Canadian university. I never plead guilty or not guilty; instead, the case was given a continuance pending one year of "good behavior," after which the charge would be dismissed. Later that year, my student visa needed to be renewed, and when I sent in my application (describing the arrest and continuance), my visa was denied. But, then, in summer 2011, the case WAS dismissed, and I have no criminal record of any kind since then (not even a parking ticket).

Now, I am applying to PhD programs, and there are a few schools in Canada where I want to apply. My question is: will the fact that I was arrested four years ago prevent me from getting a student visa? Even though the charges were dismissed? I'd appreciate any help/advice/information.

Thanks,
JC

It shouldn't be an issue if no conviction & criminal record exist.