Jul
6
Q: A relative of mine is apply for an F-1 student VISA for the USA. As a juvenile (13 year old) he was cautioned by the police (along with a group of lads) for “theft from a person”. At 15 years old he was cautioned for “damage to a building”. He has never appeared in court and has only had “reprimand final warnings” by the UK Police. He is obviously now an adult. Does he have to declare these incidents when applying for an F1 Visa or would these not be relevant to Embassy checks?
A: To answer your question, a lot would depend on how old your friend is now and what evidence he can come up with as to his reformed character. When someone has any kind of police record they have a duty to US Immigration to submit evidence that they have been rehabilitated. He should definitely admit to everything in the paperwork, but also submit overwhelming evidence of reform.