Exchange Student Visa, Criminal Record

[Revilo16]

Hi

I have a record for shoplifting/minor theft (value approx $10) from South Africa. It happened about 6 years ago.
It was a once off incident with a suspended fine, which has elapsed.

Since then I have completed my Bachelor's degree and am starting my Master's degree in a few months in Finland.

I am looking to do a semester on exchange in the USA and would need a Visa for that. I have a South African and European passports.

It is for a maximum of 5 months then I would return to Finland to complete the degree.

What are the chances of getting a Visa?

Thank You

[LawResearcherMissy]

You should be fine. Student visas are not typically denied due to a single incident of petty theft. You will have to disclose it, but it shouldn't affect your admissibility for a short exchange.