can felons go to costa rica. There is a relative decrease in the amount of rain during the months of July and August. can felons go to costa rica

 
There is a relative decrease in the amount of rain during the months of July and Augustcan felons go to costa rica The Pacific region begins in the northwest and ends in the southeast, meaning that the dividing line changes from north to south

For felons especially, their conduct while in Chile is critical. Fill out the application form with all your details. However, some of these countries do have laws stating that they don’t allow felons so if it’s discovered you have a felon, however rare, you could be denied entry. . His. My friend is a sex offender and wants to move to Costa Rica can he do that. This means that the US government still has some sway over what h. But I'm not sure. However, for individuals with a criminal record, the ability to travel freely can be restricted due to various immigration laws and policies. However, European travel throws up more. You satisfactorily paid your fines and completed your probation or parole and now you’re free to leave the States. With the amount of people that go through customs every day, it would be impossible to check the criminal background of each traveler. 30. Visit our Costa Rica Index for a Full List. There are no COVID-19 sanitary requirements to enter Costa Rica. Croatia. Answer 1 of 4: Hello All, I'm looking for some advice and / or personal experience that anyone has had recently traveling from the US to Costa Rica as a felon. Submit Your Request Directly to the FBI via the Mail. Submit Your Request Directly to the FBI via the Mail. Costa Rica is also home to many unique and diverse animal. I have a drug felony from 2016. Not all hope is lost for backpackers, though. 1. to 8:00 p. She already had all his vaccinations. Passport app 101:What to know before applying for a passport. Topic posted by datonamanmike. Manuel Antonio has an abundance of monkeys, toucans, coatis, and iguanas. Can felons travel to Costa Rica? Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. Are there any restrictions for felons entering Costa Rica? Felons are generally allowed to enter Costa Rica. a valid * passport in good condition. February 23, 2023 street rods for sale in oklahoma arkansas and missouri street rods for sale in oklahoma arkansas and missouriTo qualify for the Pensionado Visa, you must receive a lifetime monthly pension of at least $1,000 individually. So can you go to Mexico with a felony if you’re only visiting as a tourist? Visitors eligible for visa-free travel, need a Mexico Tourist Card (FMM – Forma Migratoria. It’s a difficult journey, particularly if you have been convicted of a DUI offense in the past; but it’s not an impossible one. Travelers can contact the Embassy of Finland at 3301 Massachusetts Avenue, N. I served 3 years in jail. As of now, Panama has no means to run a background check through US Homeland Security. Read other Costa Rica travel tips below! Driving in Costa Rica. This is because the country’s immigration laws consider a DUI an indictable offense, similar to a felony, and felons are prohibited from entering. Can felons travel to Costa Rica? Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. Nikki is the CEO of Pura Vida! eh?Inc. Here are a few felonies that stop felons from visiting Mexico-. Costa Rica does not require tourists to be vaccinated against COVID-19. C. However, there are some countries that may allow entry for those with a felony conviction, such as Mexico, Thailand, Costa Rica, and Brazil. Topic posted by datonamanmike. This outing is more than a hike or a waterfall swim – it’s a canyoneering adventure. Check with the airline for specific requirements on kennel sizes and. Can felons travel to Costa Rica? Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. Before You Go: Read our 2-week Costa Rica itinerary, our guide to things nobody tells you about Costa Rica, and our detailed packing guide. Arenal Volcano is the centerpiece of Arenal, the self-proclaimed adventure capital of Costa Rica. citizens who stay in the country less than 90 days need to have only a passport. Can felons go to Costa Rica? Can you go to Mexico with a criminal record? Can felons move to Sweden? Can felons travel outside the US? Can US Customs see my criminal record? Can a Felon Travel to Egypt? A criminal conviction that has already been served doesn’t affect the ability of an individual to enter Egypt. It’s pretty tough to find free things to do in Costa Rica, and entrance fees for the national parks start around $15 per day; tours start at $60. Investment of US $200,000 in a business or property. Here’s one about getting dogs in Costa Rica as opposed to bringing a dog to Costa Rica. about us; new | replacement | restoration; other projects; why accoya? coatings and finishes; contactAnswer 1 of 7: Hello. Brazil. , Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U. Yes, visitors who are granted a 90-day visa upon arrival in Costa Rica have the option to extend their stay. Step 1: Complete the Applicant Information Form. Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to crime. A valid passport. Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. Other consular fees are not affected by this rule, including. Those U. Can I own a business or real estate their. I got myself in some trouble back in 05 and eventually was convicted of a (state) felony count of. He was convicted of a felony. March 8, 2023, at 3:00 p. Scary feeling. There are a few countries that felons can travel to without a passport. I then traveled to Costa Rica & Mexico, and again had no issues. Bulgaria. COVID-19 Considerations. I got myself in some trouble back in 05 and eventually was convicted of a (state) felony count of. $144. It is advisable to make a photocopy or take a picture of your passport with the entry stamp to carry at all times during your stay. If you are a UK citizen and you wish to travel to Australia for business or leisure, you can apply for an eVisitor visa. Costa Rica does not require tourists to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Together with her Costa Rican husband, Ricky, she operates the Costa Rica. While the high season is the most popular travel time, the green season is often a favorite among Costa Rica Experts. The Travel Matrix is a list of nations along with information about how they handle entrance of visiting or moving registrants (Registered Sex Offenders) and their families. He was convicted of a felony about 5 or 6 years ago. You can enjoy activities such as surfing, snorkeling, fishing, ziplining and hiking. Please provide your telephone number and e-mail address, if available. Austria. Visitors to Costa Rica must have a valid passport and a return ticket or a ticket showing they will be leaving the country within 90 days. Canadian Passport holders can travel to Costa Rica as tourists for up to a maximum 180 days, no visa is required but all the following requirements for entry must be met: 1) a valid passport (which must have a validity of at least 1 day left); 2) proof of economic solvency of at least US$100 per month of. For tourists, the foreign license remains valid for driving in Costa Rica for a duration of up to three (3) months. Can a felon go on a cruise to Jamaica? Jamaica encourages felons to travel to the country with a clean record and a valid passport. An index of nations' current registrant entrance and treatment policies and practices. Go to the Ministry of Public Security office in San Jose to have your fingerprints taken when you arrive in Costa Rica, whether you have a previous. During your week-long stay, you can explore the lush. VIP can you travel to costa rica with a dui; can you travel to costa rica with a dui; can you travel to costa rica with a dui. TEFL. In most cases, these reasons do not have to be "compelling. In 2013, the House passed H. 1. Traveling to Guatemala is not difficult. Teaching Income in Costa Rica. Arrests and court records (Dockets, orders, decrees, judgments) Warrants. Hostel Costs – A bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds costs between $15-25 USD per night, while dorms with 8 beds and up can be found for as cheap as $11-14 USD. Some countries have laws prohibiting people who've been convicted of a felony, but don't actively screen visitors' criminal records. These restrictions are based on United States law. However there are a few things to keep in mind. Yes, if the felony is older than 10 years ago and the sentence has been fulfilled AND the charge was not of a extreme nature or involving human trafficking or. Next week my boyfriend and I will be traveling to Costa Rica for 9 days to volunteer. S. Although getting any government documentation can be time-consuming and a good teacher of patience, it is the necessary route to go so that you can legally reside in Costa Rica. government can approve a waiver request if the foreign national is seeking to enter the U. The best way to see Costa Rica is to get involved in the community there. To request your Health Pass please go to iVisa. Those U. Find here the best 7 day travel itineraries for Costa Rica . I got myself in some trouble back in 05 and eventually was convicted of a (state) felony count of. V 3. Include a complete mailing address. " This means that the U. Can felons go to Costa Rica? Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. Two popular companies in Costa Rica are Interbus and EasyRide Costa Rica. In this travel guide, we share everything you need to know before visiting Costa Rica in Central America. A group of us want to visit Costa Rica, however one person has a criminal record. I got myself in some trouble back in 05 and eventually was convicted of a (state) felony count of. Some of the most popular beaches to check out are Playa Hermosa, Playa Negra, Playa Samara and Playa Grande. 3. R. Passport app 101:What to know before applying for a passport. All travelers, regardless of age or nationality, must have a valid JTA before they can enter Jamaica. Browse all 110,297 Costa Rica topics ». This makes it the best time for those wanting to explore the country without big crowds and higher prices, however it’s also the height of the rainy season, so. , Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U. Cannot work as an employee. Compared to neighboring countries in Central and South America, Costa Rica’s cost of living can be higher due to its popularity as an expat and tourism destination. In this guide, we will explore whether a felon can travel to Germany, taking into account the German immigration laws, the severity of the felony, and potential restrictions or requirements for entry. gold remembrance jewelry. com. Felons can be deported there for a variety of reasons, but the most common one is because they are considered a threat to public order. If you are a UK citizen, you can travel to the US without a visa if you intend to stay for 90 days or less, but you are. m. Make sure to carry enough cash. S. S. When a U. Check with a consulate or Costa Rican embassy to know the law. In most cases, a felon can go on a cruise but there may be specific restrictions from the cruise line or the countries that will be visited. 2023 Guide to Moving to Costa Rica. Next week my boyfriend and I will be traveling to Costa Rica for 9 days to volunteer. an onward ticket (to leave Costa Rica at the end of your vacation) $300 U. When you leave Costa Rica by air, you will have to pay an departure tax. Most countries keep any details about records or databases of excluded or undesirable individuals pretty secretive. Day 2: Stand up paddle board at Lake Arenal in the morning. In order to enter Greece, all visitors must obtain a valid passport and visa. Step 1: Complete the Applicant Information Form. Countries that will deny entry to felons if discovered. Southeast Asian regions like Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines also generally permit travel for those with criminal records. Browse all 110,297 Costa Rica topics. As a tropical paradise with verdant rainforests, pristine beaches and rich biodiversity, Costa Rica is a popular travel destination for tourists from around the world. Country Summary: While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica. 8837 del 9 de junio del 2010 ). However, the process of doing so can be long and complicated, and it is important to understand the legal ramifications of such a decision before making any travel plans. Include a complete mailing address. A USDA-accredited veterinarian must endorse and sign the health certificate. If you have more than 6 days in Costa Rica and love the beach life, spend a few extra days beach hopping in Guanacaste. Answer 1 of 4: Hello All, I'm looking for some advice and / or personal experience that anyone has had recently traveling from the US to Costa Rica as a felon. Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Costa Rica. The application must state the (i) Full legal name of the applicant, (ii) Indicate the Costa Rican identity card or in the case of a. The country does not have a specific policy that bans felons from visiting, which means that individuals with a criminal record can indeed go to Costa Rica. For more information, I’ve put together a complete list of countries a convicted felon can & can not travel to. Can a felon travel to. Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Costa Rica. With careful planning and efficient use of your time, you can immerse yourself in the country’s beauty and culture, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The tourism industry is booming in Costa Rica with more than 1. Cruises here are a good option. Posté par : Catégorie : Articles . 10. Find the right tour for you through Costa Rica and Panama. On average teachers make about $600-1000+ dollars per month in 2018. government? No, nothing but threatsThe tourism industry is booming in Costa Rica with more than 1. The refusal may be based on the registration. Foreigners with drunk driving convictions within the past 10 years are generally refused entry into Mexico. S. Travel newsletter:Travel industry news and expert reviews on air travel, hotels, cruises, and more. My friend is a sex offender and wants to move to Costa Rica can he do that. However, things may get wild with international travel. Tourist Visa Extension: Costa Rica’s Directorate of Migration has announced that visas for tourists who entered Costa Rica between December 17, 2019 and November 30, 2020 have been extended until June 2, 2021. It's simply a criminal conviction and you have a criminal record. The price depends on your residency category. It. A Health Pass is mandatory to enter Costa Rica in addition to the vaccine listing. Felons with criminal records in the United States may face travel restrictions and legal boundaries when it comes to traveling abroad. Around Volcán Arenal National Park, around 7km (10. citizen for a visa when visiting them. Of course they will want to stay out of legal difficulties. S. New York - Costa Rica. In fact, this is the cheapest way to fly from Los Angeles to Costa Rica, with the only other flight being offered by Delta Air Lines (discussed below), making it an amazing “sweet spot” redemption. However, if you have been convicted of a felony offense, it’s natural to wonder whether you can still visit this beautiful country. An index of nations' current registrant entrance and treatment policies and practices. Most felons and ex-felons can get a passport. Violators of these laws can face severe legal consequences. $236. Santa Ana is green and picturesque. Compared to neighboring countries in Central and South America, Costa Rica’s cost of living can be higher due to its popularity as an expat and tourism destination. citizens can travel to Costa Rica for 90 or fewer days without a visa. While Costa Rica does not have a formal policy prohibiting felons from entering the country, individuals with criminal records may encounter challenges during the travel process. We compile this information from various sources including Travel Experience Reports. Costa Rica ; Costa Rica Travel Forum; Search. Help! Hello, I have plans to visit Costa Rica through SJO in the coming week. However, there are certain requirements and restrictions that must be met before being allowed entry into the country. citizen, you can budget around USD 1,500 to USD 2,000 per month to spend while living in Costa Rica, which is relatively cheap compared to the United States. Can Felons Travel To Europe? Europe is the living relic of old cities and how civilization flourished through the ages. of stay. July 25, 2021 at 5:23 pm. Tourist Visa Extension: Costa Rica’s Directorate of Migration has announced that visas for tourists who entered Costa Rica between December 17, 2019 and November 30, 2020 have been extended until June 2, 2021. What Felons Need to Know Before Applying For A Mexico Tourist Card. By preparing in advance and having all necessary documentation readily available, you. S. For more information on the JTA and how to apply, please visit the. Croatia is a country that is full of misdemeanors. United States citizens enjoy visa-free travel to Mexico for vacations and business trips under 180 days. 308; High Velocity 5. ) ACSSanJose@state. Travelers can contact the Embassy of Finland at 3301 Massachusetts Avenue, N. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season). S. federal holidays). However, if you have been convicted of a felony offense, it’s natural to wonder whether you can still visit this beautiful country. Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. By being informed and making smart choices, you can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation in Costa Rica. The question that frequently arises is. Traveling without the permission of a probation or parole officer, particularly internationally, could result in revocation of those conditions. If you're looking to snorkel in clear Caribbean waters, opt for the dry season which on the Caribbean side, is mid-May through mid-December. What country can felons travel to? There are a number of countries around the world that allow felons to travel and reside within their borders. The short answer to this question is yes, a US felon can travel to Costa Rica. The Comptroller: contraloria. These vaccines are typically given in combination and are recommended every 10 years. will not keep visitors from entering Costa Rica. One potential drawback of reaching Costa Rica without flying is the longer travel time and the potential need to make multiple connections, which can be challenging for some travelers. Felons can travel to the Bahamas, provided that they do not violate their parole or probation in the process. The fee for certain petition-based nonimmigrant visas for temporary workers (H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories) will increase from $190 to $205. citizen is arrested overseas, he or she may be initially confused and disoriented. Well if you're from the United States you can travel to Puerto Rico without a passport. 3. However, you must present the documents below: A valid passport with at least one blank visa page, A return or onward ticket (from a cruise line or airline), Proof of accommodation in Costa Rica, Proof of enough funds to cover your stay, and. However, it's essential to be aware of the restrictions that may be imposed due to the previous criminal record. Yes. Please provide your telephone number and e-mail address, if available. Tourists entering the country by sea must show their passport upon arriving at their port. Investor. citizens who stay in the country less than 90 days need to have only a passport. Police record from the Police precinct where you have legally reside for the last six (6) months. Kaitlin Armstrong’s case drew national attention after she traveled to Costa Rica and went missing for more than 40 days following the murder. Felons can travel to the Bahamas, provided that they do not violate their parole or probation in the process. It’s important to understand Japan’s immigration policy and requirements and to be honest and upfront about your criminal history. , Washington, DC 20008, tel: (202) 298-5800, or the Finnish Consulates General in Los Angeles or New York. Can felons go to Costa Rica? Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. Of course they will want to stay out of legal difficulties. Those U. can you travel to costa rica with a dui. ” Posted inFAQ by Arna BeeNovember 27, 2020 In short yes. The answer to this question is yes, a visa is required for some individuals who wish to visit or work in Costa Rica. The. Visit our Costa Rica Index for a Full List. 5. I am not sure exactly what the technical term for the felony is, but he supposedly was accused of. kate kelly thurman; franklin county local rule 27; can you travel to costa rica with a duiThe best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your goals. A little known requirement is that you be able to show “proof of economic sufficiency”. Belgium. Hike in Arenal Volcano National Park (entry fee is $15 per person) Explore the vibrant capital city, San. The Costa Rican government provides additional security. Phone - does samuel sewall appeal more to logic or to emotion in the selling of joseph: a memorialdoes samuel sewall appeal more to logic or to emotion in the selling of joseph: a memorialThe Jamaica Travel Authorization (JTA) is an online application that must be completed prior to arrival in Jamaica. The arrests "raises alarms because it confirms the presence of fentanyl" in Costa Rica, said Zamora. 62/. Shop By Threat Shop By Bullet Type Handgun; Rifle - 7. This can be through social security, annuities, retirement funds, military pensions, or other retirement benefits. Domestic and international laws pose travel restrictions to felons. The following is a list of countries that don’t require a visa to visit so as long as you have a valid passport, they’ll let you in. Answered: Hi everyone. Nikki is the CEO of Pura Vida! eh?Inc. Any person who is in Costa Rica — adult or a minor, national or foreign — can file one. While it has its charming aspects, such as historic architecture and vibrant. The road to travel freedom can be paved with challenges. What Countries Can A Convicted. Northwest Costa Rica: Tamarindo, Nosara, Samara. Some of these nations include the following:. Can us felons travel to canada. Even if you are not on probation or parole, the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) is a federal law requires that registered sex offenders to “inform his or her residence jurisdiction of any intended travel outside of the United States at least 21 days prior to that travel. . One potential drawback of reaching Costa Rica without flying is the longer travel time and the potential need to make multiple connections, which can be. Santa Ana. Current Entry Requirements. That’s the only way to describe this excursion down the Río Blanco in Curubandé de Liberia, which involves swimming, scrambling, spelunking, climbing and cliff jumping. Understanding the weather patterns and considering your interests will help you determine the best time to visit. citizens can travel to Costa Rica for 90 or fewer days without a visa. . Thousands of pet owners share my sentiments, and are concerned about. citizens who stay in the country less than 90 days need to have only a passport. It is important to note that while there is an option to extend the visa, visitors must comply with the immigration laws and regulations of Costa Rica to avoid. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a. Can own a company and receive dividends. Yes. Filed Under: About Costa Rica. Digital Nomads and Expats living in Costa Rica talk about CONVICTED FELON THINK OF BEING AN EXPAT on the Costa Rica Forum on Expat Exchange. However, there are certain requirements and restrictions that must be met before being allowed entry. Can a felon travel abroad? Having a passport may lift some limits off of you in the United States. As a tropical paradise with verdant rainforests, pristine beaches and rich biodiversity, Costa Rica is a popular travel destination for tourists from around the world. All people above 18 years of age entering Costa Rica by air, sea or land are required to carry a valid passport along with other travel and health required documents upon arrival at a Costa Rican international airport, harbor or at a pedestrian border crossing point of entry in Nicaragua or Panama. Most people need only pay attention to the legal speed cushion, where you can exceed 12. Tourists seeking the extension are required to purchase a medical insurance policy to cover any COVID-19 related medical. When planning a trip to Costa Rica, it’s important to understand what vaccines are recommended for travelers. Those U. Can felons go to Costa Rica? Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. UK immigration law states that a person may be denied entry into the country if they have been convicted of an offense for which they have been sentenced to a period of imprisonment of at least 12 months in the last 5 to 10. ” 4. The country has an array of environmental attractions - majestic volcanoes, misty cloud forests, stunning river valleys, and hundreds of beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Cruises can be excellent options for felons who cannot obtain passports. Planning your Costa Rica trip has never been. STEP 8: Pay your Post Approval Fees to the Costa Rica Government. S. A panoramic view of the Central Valley, Costa Rica. Fill out the application form with all your details. Check with your travel provider that your passport. One of the primary concerns for convicted felons is whether they are eligible for a visa. However, some of these countries do have laws stating that they don’t allow felons so if it’s discovered you have a felon, however rare, you could be denied entry. United Airlines. S. Immigration department – Costa Rica government (in Spanish) Other entry requirements. Answer 1 of 4: Hello All, I'm looking for some advice and / or personal experience that anyone has had recently traveling from the US to Costa Rica as a felon. In Case of an Arrest Overseas: Ask the prison authorities to notify the U. 00 per document. While each country has its own entry requirements and regulations, Costa Rica does not explicitly ban felons from visiting. Still, you'll want to be informed before. Minors with dual citizenship. R. citizen tourists who are residents of New York, New Jersey, Maine, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Vermont may enter Costa Rica on limited flights departing from select airports in the United States. (b) between 12 months and 4 years, unless at least 10 years have passed since the end of the. He was convicted of a felony about 5 or 6 years ago. (If you do not want to zipline, do a full day whitewater rafting Class iv rapids instead). Around 1 million travelers visited the country in 2021 – back to almost 70% of pre-pandemic. Australia, Canada, and The UK are the most notable countries with restrictions for felons. I am a convicted felon. We’ve been helping felons like you find work for over 10 years. Can a felon travel to Costa Rica? Entering Costa Rica Felons will have to demonstrate that they have a return ticket to depart from the country at the end of the trip. Costa Rica does not require quarantine, a health pass, travel insurance, QR code or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. Yes. . I got myself in some trouble back in 05 and eventually was convicted of a (state) felony count of. Topic posted by datonamanmike. Phoenix - Costa Rica. As of January 2008, Costa Rica is allowing the import. Japan. Obviously, having a simple misdemeanor on your record does not usually prohibit you from getting a U. Countries That Dont Allow Felons 2021 Country 2021 Population Saint Vincent And The Grenadines 111,263 Aruba 107,204 Tonga 106,760 United States Virgin Islands 104,226. Travel restrictions vary according to the crime an individual is convicted of. So, any person with. At least wash them as soon as you can if they’ve been in a river. Can a felon get a passport?. The following is a list of countries that don’t require a visa to visit so as long as you have a valid passport, they’ll let you in. Armstrong’s then-boyfriend, Colin Strickland, is. Current Entry Requirements. Failing to do so. Traveling to Costa Rica with a criminal record can pose certain challenges. The dry season is also the high season as many snow birds make their escape to the tropics, and there is less rainfall. S. We've put together essential information on traveling around Costa Rica, accommodation, budget, getting around, ecotourism, facts, tours, or places to visit. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels also include free breakfast. Once approved you will have to pay a government the guaranty bond, the immigration services fee and the residency card processing fee that we discussed above. The cost of living in Costa Rica can be lower than in many western countries, but it also depends on the specific location and lifestyle choices. S. S. One of the primary concerns for convicted felons. This peak tourist season boasts plenty of sunshine making it an ideal time for exploring. If a felon is deported to Croatia, they are classed as an illegal immigrant and may be subject to other. citizens who stay in the country less than 90 days need to have only a passport. And, even having a felony does not prevent you from getting a passport in many cases. While teaching around 20-25 hours per week for a private language school, I usually made about six hundred dollars a month. For example Ecuador requires a visa for anyone with a felony. citizen, you can budget around USD 1,500 to USD 2,000 per month to spend while living in Costa Rica, which is relatively cheap compared to the United States.