Can Felons Travel? What You Need to Know About Felony Travel Restrictions

Traveling in the modern world often includes many regulations, restrictions, and complications. While it’s certainly not impossible for most people, it is worth your while to research yourself and your situation before you make any travel decisions. 

One of the biggest things to focus on is your legal status as a criminal or convicted felon. In the eyes of the law, a person’s status will often lead to many different implications on their ability to travel internationally.

Of course, this doesn’t apply to every country — in fact; your legal status won’t be a problem in many countries around the world. But learning about the countries where you might have to jump through some extra hoops to get into can help ensure your traveling experience is as smooth as possible.

This is everything you need to know about felony travel restrictions and what they can mean for you as you travel worldwide. It’s always better to be knowledgeable and educated about things like this, so read on.

What Are Travel Restrictions? 

Travel restrictions are rules about who can travel to certain countries and where. When you get a felony conviction, it may prevent you from entering certain countries. Sometimes, you must check the entry requirements of the countries you intend to visit before your trip. 

Almost all travel restrictions are imposed by the court, the government, or the airlines you would use to travel. 

What Are the Types of Travel Restrictions?

• Restrictions Imposed by the Courts
• Restrictions Imposed by the Government
• Restrictions Imposed by the Airlines

Here’s everything you need to know about these different types of travel restrictions:

Restrictions Imposed by the Courts

If a judge has ordered you to stay away from a particular person or place, that order will be on your criminal record. For instance, if you’re convicted of stalking, and your parole officer wants to ensure that you don’t approach the victim again, he may order travel restrictions for up to five years after your release.

Restrictions Imposed by the Government

Sometimes it’s not just a court that imposes these rules — it could also be federal or state government agencies who want to prevent felons from leaving their jurisdictions and crossing over into others’. 

The most common example in this category is paroled felons being required not to cross state lines while they’re still on probation (or parole).

Restrictions Imposed by the Airlines

Travel restrictions are imposed by airlines because they want customers who will behave themselves during flights (and won’t lose their minds when things go awry). 

If there is a person who has a history of causing trouble on flights, they will likely be banned from using that specific airline. 

Whenever you’re traveling, make sure you stay calm and collected. This will help ensure you never get banned from flying.

What Is a Felon?

A felony conviction is the most severe type of criminal charge and can significantly limit you in the future. A misdemeanor may stay on your record forever, but a felony stays with you for life. 

While having a criminal record doesn’t necessarily mean that there will be travel restrictions in your future, knowing how different types of convictions can affect you when traveling is essential.

Felony convictions will appear on background checks conducted by employers and landlords when they run your name through databases that are used to prevent criminals from accessing certain places or positions. Felonies are also sometimes considered by potential employers during the hiring process.

This means that even if you’re not convicted but have been charged with a felony at some point, it could still affect your ability to get work later if a company does background checks on all applicants.

Can Convicted Felons Travel? 

Yes, but it depends on your country of citizenship. If you’re a US citizen, then yes. You can travel to most countries worldwide as long as you have a passport and a visa (if necessary). 

If you are Canadian, yes, again. Canada has pretty liberal rules regarding Canadian citizens traveling outside of the country. Most countries will let Canadians in without requiring them to apply for visas beforehand (depending on which country they’re visiting). 

Suppose you have a felony on your record. In that case, you may be subject to criminal restrictions, limiting your ability to enter certain countries or even preventing you from traveling overseas altogether.

If you have a criminal record and want to travel internationally, you must know passport and visa restrictions laws. People with felony convictions are generally eligible for passports or visas, depending on their circumstances.

If you’re a US citizen, you can apply for a passport even while your felony conviction is still pending. You should have no problem if your sentence has been completed or dismissed (including probation). 

If you’re not a US citizen, you must be able to show that your conviction was overturned by the court or otherwise vacated by law before applying for an international travel document like the visa waiver program (VWP).

How Long Does a Felony Stay on Your Record? 

The answer to this question is complicated, as each state has laws regarding removing criminal records. In general, a felony will remain on your record for ten years or more. Some states allow felons to expunge their records after a certain period (generally around five years), but not all felonies are eligible for expungement.

Expunging a felony from your record is a complicated process that takes time to complete. The first step is determining which state you want to expunge the felony from because each state has rules and regulations for how this can be accomplished. Some states even have different procedures for different types of felonies. In most cases, however, you must petition the court to seal or pardon your record (or both).

How To Research Specific Country Requirements

If you can complete a passport application, acquire a US passport, and are looking to cross an international border, it’s essential to do some research beforehand. Dealing with travel immigration authorities while having a criminal history can result in a need to complete specific entry requirements apart from having a valid passport.

Many countries will do a criminal background check on people looking to enter their countries. If you get to the border, you may have to explain a felony record and other criminal offenses and criminal convictions if you want to enter the country. Even if there are less severe crimes on your record, it would be well worth your time to try and expunge as many charges against you as possible.

Some countries may require specific application forms to be completed, especially if you are making a visa application. Many countries in the Schengen zone need additional clarity on your past and present if you want to get into the country efficiently.

Seeking Legal Advice Before Traveling

Depending on your personal history, you may want to seek legal advice from a law firm before booking a flight. For example, if you have been convicted of a crime and now face felony travel restrictions, it’s important not to travel internationally without first getting the proper clearance from authorities.

Several conditions could make your situation more complicated. If you’ve been convicted of one or more crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMTs), for example — including murder, rape, and drug trafficking — you might need special permission from the Secretary of Homeland Security before leaving the country.

If you’ve been convicted of any other type of crime or have an outstanding criminal warrant issued against you by another country or state/province within Canada or Mexico, then consult an attorney before traveling abroad. This could affect whether or not certain countries will allow entry into their borders when boarding their planes.

Conclusion

If you have a felony conviction, many factors can affect your travel plans. Understanding how these restrictions will affect your ability to cross international borders is essential before booking any flights or making other travel plans. If you have questions about international travel and the consequences of felony convictions, don’t hesitate to contact an immigration attorney who can provide professional legal advice on this topic. ETIAS eligibility will not be impacted by a previous felony conviction, however, an ETIAS decision of approving or denying an application will depend on an applicant’s criminal history.

Can You Travel Out Of State While Facing Felony Charges In Rhode Island?

If you are facing felony charges in Rhode Island, your freedom to travel out of state may suddenly feel uncertain. Many people charged with felonies wonder how court restrictions might affect their ability to visit family, attend work obligations, or handle emergencies beyond state lines. Understanding the local rules about travel, your responsibilities, and your available options can help you avoid unintended violations and make informed decisions while your case is pending.

Is Out-of-State Travel Possible While Facing a Felony Charge in Rhode Island?

If you have a felony charge pending in Rhode Island, whether you can leave the state depends on the specific conditions set by the court during your bail or pretrial release determination. Rhode Island courts take several factors into account when reviewing travel requests, including the seriousness of your charge, your criminal history, your ties to the local community, and whether the court believes you might pose a flight risk. While some individuals are allowed to travel out of state under certain circumstances, many others are required to remain within Rhode Island’s borders until their felony case is resolved.

The majority of felony bail or release orders will specify any travel restrictions in writing. Rhode Island judges have wide discretion to tailor these restrictions, and the differences can be significant. Some people may be required to remain in the state at all times, while others may need to request permission for each out-of-state trip. Certain bail orders may allow routine travel for work, but require advance notice and documentation. Travel restrictions are typically more strict for defendants facing violent felony charges, repeat offenders, or those with a record of skipping court dates.

Never assume you are allowed to travel just because your paperwork does not mention restrictions. Always review your release conditions carefully with your attorney. Rhode Island’s courts expect defendants to comply with all bail or release requirements, and even a single violation—such as leaving the state without permission—can have severe legal consequences. When in doubt, request clarification or written confirmation before making plans that involve travel outside Rhode Island.

Common Travel Restrictions in Rhode Island Felony Bail and Pretrial Release Orders

Courts in Rhode Island routinely impose strict conditions on defendants accused of felony offenses. These conditions are designed to balance the presumption of innocence with the need to ensure appearances at court dates and community safety. Travel restrictions can take many forms, frequently tailored to the specifics of the case and the perceived risk of fleeing prosecution or committing further offenses.

Conditions that often impact interstate travel with a felony charge in Rhode Island include:

• Mandatory surrender of your passport or travel documents
• Explicit orders not to leave Rhode Island without prior court approval
• Electronic monitoring or location tracking, especially in high-risk cases
• Required notification and documented permission from pretrial services or a bail bond company
• Routine check-ins with pretrial officers or by phone if travel is permitted for work or emergencies

Bail conditions are based on your unique background. Someone with strong local connections, a job, and no criminal history may have more flexibility, such as notifying the court about occasional travel for work. Individuals accused of more serious crimes, however, may face total travel bans or heavy electronic surveillance. When the court adds restrictions, it is because it believes they are needed to protect the public and ensure you appear for all required hearings. Staying in close contact with your attorney increases your chances of understanding and complying with every travel-related requirement.

How to Request Travel Permission with a Felony Charge in Rhode Island

If you have a legitimate reason to leave Rhode Island while felony charges remain pending, you must get official court permission before traveling. The process for requesting this permission starts with your attorney submitting a formal written motion to the court. This motion should describe the purpose, destination, specific travel dates, and supporting details for your trip—such as a doctor’s letter, employer verification, or proof of a family emergency.

After your attorney files the motion, the court may schedule a hearing to consider the request. Sometimes, judges will decide based on the written motion alone, but in many instances, you or your attorney will need to appear to answer questions. The judge will review several considerations:

• Your record of complying with previous court orders and release conditions
• The seriousness and nature of the felony charge
• Evidence supporting the necessity of your travel
• Risk that you may not return for scheduled hearings

If your motion is granted, the court will issue a written order outlining allowed travel dates and any additional requirements, such as itinerary reporting or mandatory check-ins. Do not make travel arrangements or leave the state until you have written, court-approved permission. Even if your bail bond agency or defense attorney believes your request will be granted, the final decision always rests with the judge. Acting before approval can result in bail revocation or additional charges.

What Happens If You Travel Out of State Without Court Permission?

Traveling out of state without the court’s explicit permission is a violation of your bail or release conditions. Rhode Island judges take these violations seriously, and the immediate consequence is usually bail revocation. The court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest, potentially resulting in your being held in jail without bond while your felony case proceeds. You could also face stricter release terms if permitted to post bail again in the future.

In addition to these direct penalties, unauthorized travel often undermines your defense and credibility. Prosecutors may highlight a travel violation to argue that you are unreliable or pose a continued flight risk, making it much harder to negotiate favorable plea agreements or lenient sentencing. Repeat violations can also damage your record for future legal proceedings, as judges and parole boards commonly consider a history of bail or probation infractions when determining eligibility for early release or setting future bond amounts.

Unapproved travel can also negatively affect your relationship with your bail bondsman, if you used one. Bail bond agencies often require advance notice or special consent for travel, and a violation can trigger a bond forfeiture or monetary penalty. Worst-case scenarios include the permanent loss of collateral or the inability to secure a bond in future cases. If you have already traveled out of state without permission, contact your attorney immediately so they can help you address any outstanding warrants and minimize further legal consequences.

When Courts Grant Exceptions for Out-of-State Travel in Rhode Island

Though Rhode Island courts take bail and release restrictions seriously, judges may grant exceptions for defendants who can demonstrate a substantial, documented need for travel. Courts frequently consider exceptions in cases involving medical treatment unavailable locally, work commitments that require presence out of state, or urgent family emergencies such as funerals or critical illness. Having credible, verifiable documentation attached to your request can significantly improve your chances.

Courts evaluate:

• The purpose and urgency of your travel request
• The duration and specific dates of intended travel
• Your prior compliance with all court conditions
• The presence of supporting documents, such as employment letters, travel itineraries, or medical records

If the court approves your travel exception, expect to comply with additional safeguards. These might include filing detailed travel plans, supplying contact information for your destination, and checking in as directed. Reliable communication and full transparency with both the court and your attorney are essential. If you are unsure about eligibility for a travel exception, consult your attorney as soon as the need arises to give them enough time to prepare a compelling submission to the judge.

Modifying Travel Restrictions During a Rhode Island Felony Case

Bail or release restrictions imposed at the start of your felony case are not always final. If your circumstances change after you have already been released—such as starting a new job, experiencing a family emergency, or demonstrating consistent compliance—your attorney can file a motion to modify existing travel limitations. Modification requests should clearly state why the change is necessary and include all relevant documentation to justify your need.

Court decisions to revise travel terms are discretionary but can be flexible, especially if you have established a record of following all conditions and appearing at every scheduled hearing. Judges weigh your compliance history, the nature of your original charge, and the urgency or legitimacy of your new travel request. In many cases, positive steps—such as steady employment or community engagement—support the argument for more lenient travel rules.

Timely communication with your attorney is essential if you need your travel restrictions reviewed or changed. A well-prepared motion, strong supporting evidence, and a track record of reliable work together to maximize your chances of gaining court approval for modified travel terms.

Probation, Parole, and Post-Conviction Travel Restrictions

If you are convicted and placed on probation or parole in Rhode Island, your freedom to travel out of state becomes even more restricted. While awaiting trial, you generally answer to the presiding judge, but after sentencing, you must also follow additional rules set by probation or parole authorities. On probation, you are usually required to get written approval from your probation officer and, in many circumstances, clearance from the court or prosecutor before crossing state lines. Probation departments review each request individually and will only approve for legitimate needs, such as employment, medical care, or documented family emergencies.

Parole has even tighter controls. All interstate travel—whether for work, medical, or personal reasons—typically demands written authorization from the Rhode Island Parole Board or parole officer. The department may also require you to provide a complete travel itinerary, contact information, and verification of your purpose. Travel without prior approval can trigger an immediate violation, possible arrest, and a return to custody to serve the remainder of your sentence.

Always submit travel requests in writing and include documentation that demonstrates the reason, the expected duration, and your intent to return on time. Your attorney can help you present your case clearly and anticipate any objections from probation, parole, or the court. This proactive approach reduces your risk of missteps that could endanger your freedom or future opportunities for release.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Guide Someone With a Travel With a Felony Charge in Rhode Island 

Securing court approval for out-of-state travel during a felony case requires more than simply asking for permission. As your advocate, I focus on building a strong, well-documented argument to present in court, ensuring every detail meets Rhode Island’s legal standards. I assist with drafting precise motions, gathering necessary evidence, coordinating with all involved parties, and explaining court procedures step by step so you always know what to expect. These steps not only clarify your obligations but also establish your credibility in the eyes of the judge.

I rely on years of experience within the Rhode Island criminal justice system to anticipate potential challenges unique to local courtrooms and judicial officers. Timing, clarity, and thorough documentation make a critical difference when seeking leniency or court approval. As your attorney, I make myself available beyond standard office hours because questions, emergencies, and travel needs do not always arise during business hours—your peace of mind is as important as your legal protection.

By focusing on tailored defense strategies and maintaining open channels of communication, The Law Office of Thomas C. Thomasian, Esq. supports your ability to manage complex legal requirements and reduce unnecessary risks. If you have urgent travel needs or questions about court restrictions, I am available to help you understand and navigate your options, ensuring you remain in good standing with the court every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling with a Felony Charge in Rhode Island

Can I Travel Out of State for Work if I Tell My Attorney First? 

Notifying your attorney should always be your first step, but it does not replace the need for official approval. You must obtain written permission from the court, or—in probation or parole cases—from your supervising officer. Supporting documentation, like a letter from your employer, strengthens your case and helps streamline the approval process.

Can My Bail Bondsman Approve Travel if I Have a Court-Imposed Restriction? 

Even if your bail bondsman agrees, court-ordered travel restrictions override any private agreements. The judge’s decision is final. Having approval from both your bondsman and the court is ideal, but you must never violate court orders to secure bail or maintain release.

What Documents Should I Carry if Permitted to Travel? 

Always keep a copy of your court’s written travel authorization, your attorney’s contact information, an official itinerary, and any documentation that explains the reason for your trip. If you are stopped by law enforcement out of state, these documents can quickly demonstrate your good faith and compliance with all conditions of release.

If you have questions about traveling with a felony charge in Rhode Island or need help requesting court approval, contact The Law Office of Thomas C. Thomasian, Esq. for clear, confidential support. Guidance from someone who knows Rhode Island’s legal landscape can offer both peace of mind and real protection. You can also call (401) 312-4385 to discuss your options today.