After being convicted of several crimes by a New York court, President Trump may face significant travel and legal restrictions even if re-elected. According to New York immigration attorney Karin Wolman, Trump’s felony convictions could complicate his ability to travel for diplomatic purposes to six key countries: Australia, China, India, Israel, New Zealand, and Taiwan. These nations, which are either important U.S. allies or significant geopolitical adversaries, require visas for entry that include questions about criminal backgrounds.
Wolman suggests that Trump would need to apply for a waiver and a temporary visa, and each country would decide whether to grant him entry despite his convictions. Although Wolman does not anticipate an outright ban, political shifts in these countries could influence their decisions.
In addition to potential travel restrictions, Trump, a licensed gun owner, will be required to surrender his firearms due to his felony status. Under both New York state and federal law, convicted felons are prohibited from possessing firearms. Criminal defense attorney Peter Tilem explained that Trump must either transfer his guns to another person or surrender them to state authorities by his sentencing date on July 11, as there is no grace period.
Trump has previously stated that he carries a weapon for personal protection, referencing this in a 2016 interview about terror attacks in France.
The conviction stems from a case overseen by Judge Juan Merchan and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, where a New York City jury found Trump guilty on all 34 counts. Judge Merchan praised the jury for their efforts following the verdict. The sentencing phase, scheduled for July 11, will determine Trump’s legal repercussions, which may include imprisonment.