I got caught on a shoplifting incident ($75 item) on VA 4 years ago while I was on a J1 student visa, because of toughest laws of VA, the situation ended up by spending 2 days on jail. (30 days,26 suspended and 4 days on jail).
I have two questions.
1- what are my chances to visit the US back for a conference? Is there any documents that I should prepare for counselor to check my record and convection?
2- Im planning to immigrate to canada, Do I have to wait 5 years to start the immigration process? Im asking this because I found this in one of Canadian lawyers website.
"Important note: The misdemeanor-felony distinction in U.S. law is not an important distinction for the purposes of Canadian immigration. Even misdemeanors may result in criminal inadmissibility.
If you have spent any time incarcerated or in jail, even if you have been detained temporarily we advise having a legal opinion prepared to explain the circumstances of the detention and convince the visa or border officer why you are not criminally inadmissible to Canada. "
I really appreciate your help!

