How to Apply for a Record Suspension in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide

What is a Record Suspension?

A record suspension, formerly called a pardon, is an official government decision that keeps your criminal record separate from other criminal records. Once granted, your conviction will no longer appear on standard criminal record checks, opening doors to employment, travel, and other opportunities.

Important: The Name Changed in 2012

In 2012, the Canadian government changed the name from "pardon" to "record suspension." The process and benefits are essentially the same, but the new name more accurately describes what happens: your record is not erased but is set aside and kept separate.

What a Record Suspension Does

Removes Conviction from Background Checks

Your conviction will no longer appear on standard criminal record checks conducted for employment or volunteer purposes.

Opens Employment Opportunities

Many employers run background checks. A clear check significantly improves your job prospects.

Enables International Travel

While a record suspension does not guarantee entry to other countries, it removes one major barrier to international travel.

Restores Your Reputation

A record suspension is an official acknowledgment that you have been rehabilitated and are no longer defined by past mistakes.

What a Record Suspension Does NOT Do

Does Not Erase Your Record

Your conviction still exists; it is simply kept separate and not disclosed on standard checks.

May Still Appear on Some Checks

Pardoned sexual offences can still appear on vulnerable sector checks required for work with children and vulnerable populations.

Does Not Guarantee Foreign Entry

Countries like the United States maintain their own records and may still have information about your conviction.

Can Be Revoked

If you are convicted of a new offence or if it is later discovered that you were not eligible, your record suspension can be revoked.

Eligibility Requirements

Waiting Periods

You must wait a specific period after completing ALL parts of your sentence before you can apply:

Summary Offences: 5 Years

Summary offences are less serious criminal offences. You must wait 5 years after completing your sentence, including:

• Any jail or prison time
• Probation period
• Payment of all fines and restitution
• Community service orders

Indictable Offences: 10 Years

Indictable offences are more serious criminal offences. The 10-year waiting period begins after completing your entire sentence.

Schedule 1 Offences (Sexual Offences Against Minors): Not Eligible

Certain sexual offences involving children are not eligible for record suspension.

Good Conduct Requirement

During the waiting period and up to the time of application, you must demonstrate:

• No new criminal convictions
• No pending charges
• Evidence of rehabilitation and good character

Conviction Must Be in Canada

Record suspensions only apply to convictions under Canadian federal law. Provincial offences and foreign convictions are not eligible.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before investing time and money, confirm you are eligible:

Calculate Your Waiting Period

Determine when you completed ALL aspects of your sentence, then add 5 or 10 years depending on the offence type.

Check for Ineligible Offences

Certain offences, particularly sexual offences against minors, are permanently ineligible.

Review Your Conduct

Ensure you have maintained good behaviour with no new charges or convictions.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Criminal Record from RCMP

You need a certified copy of your criminal record from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This costs approximately $25 and requires submitting your fingerprints.

Court Information

For each conviction on your record, you need documents from the court showing:

• The offence(s) you were convicted of
• The date of conviction
• The sentence imposed

Contact the courthouse where you were convicted to obtain these records. Fees vary by jurisdiction.

Local Police Records Check

Obtain a police records check from each jurisdiction where you have lived during the waiting period. This must be dated within 6 months of your application.

Proof of Citizenship or Immigration Status

Canadian citizens: birth certificate or citizenship card

Permanent residents: proof of permanent residence

Others: proof of legal status in Canada

Military Conduct Sheet (if applicable)

If you served in the Canadian Armed Forces, you need a conduct sheet from the Department of National Defence.

Step 3: Complete the Application Forms

The Parole Board of Canada provides the official application forms. You will need to complete:

Schedule 1: Application for Record Suspension

Basic personal information and declaration

Measurable Benefit Statement

This is crucial. You must explain how a record suspension will provide you with a measurable benefit. This might include:

• Specific jobs you cannot get due to your record
• Volunteer opportunities you have been denied
• Educational programs requiring clear background checks
• International travel opportunities
• Adoption or fostering applications

Good Conduct Statement

Describe your rehabilitation since the conviction. Include:

• Employment history
• Community involvement
• Family responsibilities
• Any counseling or programs completed

Character References

Provide references from people who can speak to your good character. These should be from people who know about your conviction and can attest to your rehabilitation.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Send your complete application package to:

Parole Board of Canada

Record Suspension Program

410 Laurier Avenue West

Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0R1

Include:

• All completed forms
• All supporting documents
• Copies of your government-issued ID
• Payment of $50 application fee

Step 5: Wait for Processing

The Parole Board will review your application. This process typically takes:

• 12 to 24 months for standard applications
• Longer if additional information is required

During this time, the Board may:

• Request additional documents
• Conduct further inquiries
• Schedule a hearing (rare, but possible)

Step 6: Receive Your Decision

If Approved:

You will receive official notification that your record suspension has been granted. Your conviction will be removed from the CPIC database and will no longer appear on standard background checks.

If Denied:

You will receive reasons for the denial. Common reasons include:

• Incomplete waiting period
• Evidence of poor conduct
• Insufficient documentation
• Failure to demonstrate measurable benefit

You may be able to reapply after addressing the issues.

Costs Breakdown

Government Fees

Application Fee: $50

This is the current fee payable to the Parole Board of Canada.

Document Fees

Total Estimated Cost: $150-300

This assumes you gather documents yourself. Using a professional service will cost more but may increase your chances of success.

Timeline

Typical Timeline

Factors That Affect Processing Time

Complexity of Record

Multiple convictions or convictions in different jurisdictions take longer to verify.

Completeness of Application

Incomplete applications are returned, causing delays.

Current Backlog

Processing times vary based on the Parole Board's current workload.

Tips for a Successful Application

Be Thorough

Include all requested documents. Missing information is the most common cause of delays.

Be Honest

Do not omit convictions or misrepresent your history. The Parole Board has access to complete records.

Demonstrate Rehabilitation

The Measurable Benefit Statement is your chance to show how you have changed. Be specific and sincere.

Get Good References

Choose people who know about your past and can credibly speak to your character today.

Follow Up

If you do not hear anything after 6 months, contact the Parole Board to confirm your application was received.

Keep Copies

Make copies of everything you submit. You may need to reference these documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a record suspension take?

From starting to gather documents to receiving a decision, expect 15-27 months total. The Parole Board processing alone takes 12-24 months.

Can I apply for a record suspension myself?

Yes. You do not need a lawyer or professional service. However, many people find the process complex and use professional assistance to ensure their application is complete.

What is the success rate for record suspensions?

Approximately 95% of properly prepared applications are approved. Most denials are due to incomplete applications or eligibility issues.

Can a record suspension be revoked?

Yes. If you are convicted of a new offence or if it is discovered you were not eligible when you applied, your record suspension can be revoked.

Will other countries know about my pardoned record?

Possibly. Countries like the United States maintain their own databases and may have information about your conviction even after you receive a record suspension.

Can I travel to the US with a record suspension?

A record suspension may help, but US border officials have access to information about Canadian convictions. You may want to apply for US entry waiver if you have concerns.

What offences are not eligible for record suspension?

Sexual offences against minors under Schedule 1 of the Criminal Records Act are not eligible. Some serious offences may be eligible but have longer waiting periods.

Get Started Today

If you have been living with a criminal record, a record suspension could change your life. The process takes time, so the sooner you begin, the sooner you can put your past behind you.

Before applying, we recommend running a criminal record check on yourself to see exactly what appears on your record. This helps you understand what you are working with and ensures there are no surprises in your application.