Benefit fraud - can I get in to the US?

[Glenn Quagmire]

Several years ago I was convicted in court for benefit fraud. I got what I deserved, I was a scrounging scumbag who got caught, and I learned from it.

It was all done through the local council, no police involvement whatsoever - so would this prevent me from entering the US? I know that generally if you've ever been arrested then you'll have trouble getting a visa but what about my situation? I was dealt with through the local magistrates and was not given a custodial sentence.

[Whowhere]

Shouldn't be, best way of finding out is to get in touch with the consulate in London, see what they say.

[Kermit]

You shouldn't have any problems, to be honest, it tends to be drugs or Communism they look for.

ask the US Consulate.

[budda]

If you are just going for a holiday and you can sign the visa waver then I very much doubt you will have any problems. If you want a longer term working visa you might have an issue.

[otter]

if you've ever been arrested

charged not just arrested.
you should be okay.

[Randomgirl]

charged not just arrested.
you should be okay.

Shockingly the US immigration actually ask if you've ever been arrested (even if you were completely innocent) on their visa waiver forms.