Mental Illness

[Stageman]

Hi all, Does anyone have any experience of using the Visa Waiver Program with someone who has a mental illness ?

One of my group going later this year is being treated for schizophrenia and the Visa waiver wizard on the Embassy website says -

"Travelers with mental illnesses can travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program provided that their condition does not render them a danger to themselves or others. They may wish to carry letter from their doctor to that effect to facilitate their entry into the United States."

She's not a danger and a letter should be no problem, I was just wondering if anyone has had to go through this, particularly with schizophrenia ? Do they take you to a back room and interrogate you or is it just like a routine entry?

Any advice most appreciated

 

[mcco5543]

you might also want to post this on the DisAbilities board.

 

[Tiggernut_jadie]

Providing her symptoms are well controlled and she is not in chronic phase of her illness, she will be fine. (I'm a MH Nurse! )

 

[alisonbestford]

Providing her symptoms are well controlled and she is not in chronic phase of her illness, she will be fine. (I'm a MH Nurse! )

I would tend to agree....although I'm an oncology nurse..... and know little of mental illness

I think I, personally, may well get a letter from the the consultant to verify medication etc

 

[gilld]

The biggest problem is getting appropriate travel insurance, which obviously must cover her condition. It is available but is very expensive, particularly for the USA.

I also have a relative who has a similar condition - Schizo-affective Disorder - and I know she plans on travelling to the USA in the foreseeable future. She expects her insurance to be around £1,000.

 

[Stageman]

Thanks everyone, I'm feeling a lot less worried about it now Although I don't think i'll get the £1000 travel insurance, ouch!!

 

[smileyk8]

Providing her symptoms are well controlled and she is not in chronic phase of her illness, she will be fine. (I'm a MH Nurse! )

Hey another mental health worker! I would totally agree also, just wanted to add that as i know it's comforting to see lots of positive replies.