traveling

[newsbreak78]

I just reveived my permanent residency through marriage to an american
citizen. In 2000, I was cited for shoplifting, given 1 yr probation,
and then it was expunged (I think I pleaded no-contest). I disclosed it
on my I-485 application. Immigration officer did not seem to even
notice it (or be botherered by it) during my immigration interview, and
gave me my green card. We now are thinking of visiting my homecountry for
the first time since that incident. Should I worry about having
problems getting back into US?

Thanks!

[vilkatis]

I just reveived my permanent residency through marriage to an american citizen. In 2000, I was cited for shoplifting, given 1 yr probation, and then it was expunged

[ ... ]

Should I worry about having problems getting back into US?

No.

"expunged" means it shouldn't show up anywhere, except if you get arrested again. Even then, maybe not.

For most petty crimes, you generally get one 'get out of jail free' pass. Police recodrs will show the level of the crime and that it was expunged. So, details such as the nature wil be lost, but the date, court dates, your finger prints wil be retained.

The fact that you have a green card means you've already passed through the most dangerous phase.

Your home nationality can make a difference, but not 'officially' as far as I know; only 'unofficially' if you runinto a prejudiced person who has power over you. And if you get picked up for any other crime you will certainly be in a serious situation.

But, for normal travel you should be fine.

Enjoy. Stay clean & free!

-- vilkatis