Do Pardoned Records Show on Background Checks in Canada?
Generally no, pardoned records do not show on standard background checks in Canada. Learn about record suspensions and the important exceptions.
Do Pardoned Records Show on Background Checks?
In most cases, no. When you receive a record suspension (formerly called a pardon), your criminal conviction is removed from the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database and will not appear on standard criminal record checks.:
However, there are important exceptions you should understand.
How Record Suspensions Work
What Happens When You Get a Pardon
When the Parole Board of Canada grants a record suspension:
- Your conviction is removed from the main CPIC database
- Records are sealed and kept separate
- Standard criminal record checks show no conviction
- You can legally answer "no" when asked about criminal convictions
The Official Term Change
In 2012, "pardons" were renamed "record suspensions." They function the same way:
- Remove conviction from searchable databases
- Allow fresh start for employment
- Provide peace of mind
When Pardoned Records Do NOT Appear
Standard Criminal Record Check
A basic criminal record check will show no conviction after a record suspension is granted.
Most Employment Checks
The majority of employers conduct standard checks that will not reveal pardoned offences.
Canadian Background Checks
Even fingerprint-based RCMP checks for immigration and other purposes will not show pardoned convictions.
The Major Exception: Vulnerable Sector Checks
When Pardoned Sexual Offences ARE Revealed
If you apply for a position involving vulnerable persons, and you have a pardoned sexual offence, it may be flagged.
Who requires vulnerable sector checks:
- Healthcare workers
- Teachers and education staff
- Childcare workers
- Coaches working with youth
- Volunteers with vulnerable populations
What happens:
- The check flags a potential match
- Local police review the sealed record
- If the offence is a sexual offence and the person will work with vulnerable groups, it may be disclosed
Non-Sexual Pardoned Offences
Pardoned offences that are NOT sexual in nature will not appear, even on vulnerable sector checks.
| Pardoned Offence Type | Standard Check | Vulnerable Sector Check |
|---|---|---|
| Theft | Not shown | Not shown |
| Assault (non-sexual) | Not shown | Not shown |
| Drug offences | Not shown | Not shown |
| Fraud | Not shown | Not shown |
| Sexual offences | Not shown | May be disclosed |
Record Suspension Eligibility
Waiting Periods
Before you can apply for a record suspension:
| Offence Type | Waiting Period |
|---|---|
| Summary conviction | 5 years after sentence completion |
| Indictable offence | 10 years after sentence completion |
"Sentence completion" means all of the following:
- Jail time served
- Probation completed
- Fines paid
- Restitution paid
- Any other conditions met
Offences NOT Eligible for Pardon
Some offences cannot receive record suspensions:
- Sexual offences involving minors (under the Sexual Offender Information Registration Act)
- More than 3 indictable offences with sentences of 2+ years each
- Certain Schedule 1 offences under the Corrections and Conditional Release Act
The Application Process
Steps to Get a Record Suspension
- **Confirm eligibility** - Verify you meet waiting period and other requirements
- **Gather documents** - Court records, proof of sentence completion, references
- **Complete application** - Detailed forms from Parole Board of Canada
- **Pay fees** - Approximately $700
- **Submit and wait** - Processing takes 6-12+ months
- **Receive decision** - Most eligible applicants are approved
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Criminal record check | $25-50 |
| Court documents | $30-100 |
| Local police records | $50-100 |
| Application fee | $700 |
| **Total** | $800-1,000+ |
Benefits of Record Suspension
Employment
- Pass background checks
- Apply for more positions
- No disclosure required
- Greater career opportunities
Travel
- Enter United States more easily
- Less hassle at borders
- Improved travel freedom
Peace of Mind
- Fresh start
- No longer living with record
- Reduced anxiety about disclosure
- Improved self-esteem
Can a Record Suspension Be Revoked?
Yes, in certain circumstances:
Automatic Revocation
- New indictable offence conviction
- Certain summary convictions
Discretionary Revocation
- Evidence of bad conduct
- Misrepresentation in application
- New information about original offence
Frequently Asked Questions
If I have a pardon, can I say I don't have a criminal record?
Yes. With a record suspension, you can legally answer "no" when asked if you have a criminal record on most applications.
Will my pardoned record show on a police check for a new job?
No, unless it's a vulnerable sector check and the offence was sexual in nature.
How long does a record suspension last?
Indefinitely, unless revoked due to new criminal activity or other specified circumstances.
Can employers see that I had a pardon granted?
No. The existence of a record suspension is not disclosed. Employers simply see no criminal record.
Should I still disclose a pardoned offence if asked?
Generally no. The purpose of a record suspension is to allow a fresh start. However, some specific applications (like certain government positions) may ask about pardoned offences.
What about US border and pardoned records?
The US maintains its own databases and may still have information about your conviction. A Canadian pardon doesn't guarantee US entry, though it helps significantly.
Start Your Fresh Start
If you're eligible for a record suspension, it's one of the best investments you can make in your future. The process takes time and effort, but the benefits last a lifetime.
To understand what currently appears on your record, order a criminal record check through SafeHire. This helps you confirm your eligibility and plan your path to a record suspension.
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