How a DUI Impacts International Students & Work Permit Holders in Canada | Kolinsky Law
                     How a DUI Impacts 
International Students 
& Work Permit Holders 
in Canada
A single impaired driving charge can jeopardise your immigration 
status, academic progress, and long-term plans to remain in 
Canada.
Understanding the Stakes
For Citizens
Fines, licence suspensions, or jail time
For Temporary Residents
Immigration status, academic progress, employment, and 
permanent residency at risk
Driving under the influence is a serious criminal offence in Canada. 
For international students and work permit holders, the 
consequences extend far beyond typical penalties.
Impact on Temporary Immigration Status
Immediate Risks Long-Term Consequences
• Re-evaluation of temporary resident status • Denial of permit extensions
• Study or work permit jeopardy • Refusal of re-entry after travel
• Viewed as public safety issue • Discretionary officer decisions
Even when the incident appears minor, immigration authorities may re-evaluate your status. Officers have 
discretion to deny extensions or refuse re-entry to Canada.
Consequences for Students
Academic Disruption Study Permit Renewal Regulated Professions
Colleges and universities If renewal is refused because of Nursing, education, and social 
require good legal standing. A a DUI, students may have to work students face additional 
conviction may violate leave their programme and barriers due to licensing 
institutional rules, forcing potentially Canada. requirements and background 
withdrawal from programmes. checks.
Impact on Work Permit 
Holders
Employment Risk
Background checks may affect job stability and promotions
Safety-Sensitive Roles
Positions involving driving or machinery may result in 
immediate disqualification
Permit Renewal
Must prove continued admissibility to Canada
Criminal Inadmissibility & Removal
One of the most serious consequences of a DUI for non-citizens is the possibility of criminal inadmissibility. If 
found inadmissible, a person may face removal proceedings or be denied entry into Canada after travel.
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Single Conviction Trigger Aggravating Factors Long-Term Impact
One impaired driving conviction can Accidents causing injuries, high Risks can arise long after the 
trigger inadmissibility blood alcohol levels, or repeated criminal case concludes
offences increase risk
Barriers to Permanent 
Residency
Immigration Programme Citizenship 
Requirements Impact
Most programmes require applicants Criminal offences may 
to demonstrate good conduct and interrupt the required 
compliance with Canadian law. A period of lawful 
recent impaired driving conviction behaviour for 
may delay or jeopardise applications citizenship applications.
under:
• Canadian Experience Class
• Provincial Nominee Programmes
• Family sponsorship
Why Early Legal 
Representation Matters
1 Immediate Action
Avoid damaging admissions and understand the evidence
2 Dual Defence
Prepare strategy considering both criminal and immigration 
outcomes
3 Status Protection
Assess impacts on temporary status, work eligibility, and 
future residency
The immigration consequences of a DUI often extend far beyond 
immediate criminal penalties. Early legal guidance is essential for 
protecting your future in Canada.
Protect Your Future in Canada
Comprehensive Defence Academic Protection Employment Security
Strategic approach addressing Safeguard your study permit and Defend your work permit and 
both criminal charges and educational goals career opportunities
immigration status
Time is of the essence. Early intervention can make all the difference in protecting your rights and your 
future in Canada.
Contact Kolinsky Law
David Kolinsky
Over a decade of dedicated experience defending international 
students and work permit holders facing DUI Charges in 
Edmonton.
Phone: +1 (780)-757-6400
Website: www.kolinsky.ca  
Email: [email protected]
Visit: #212A – 10807 Castle Downs Road, Edmonton, AB, T5X 3N7
Recognised as one of the Best Impaired Driving Lawyers in 
Edmonton, providing robust defence strategies that protect your 
legal rights, academic standing, work permit, and pathway to 
permanent residency.
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