Pardons Canada specializes in assisting Canadians across the country in moving past their criminal records by successfully applying for pardons, officially known as record suspensions. Our goal is to help you regain your freedom and unlock new opportunities by highlighting your rehabilitation and clearing your criminal record in Canada.

What is a Record Suspension?

A record suspension or pardon is a recognition by the Canadian government that an individual’s criminal record no longer reflects their character and should be sealed away. This process involves a thorough application and review and, if granted, allows for a fresh start by setting aside past convictions.

Benefits of Clearing Your Record

A record suspension can open doors that were once closed due to a criminal record. Not only does it symbolize a second chance, but it also actively removes barriers in various aspects of life.

Getting a pardon/record suspension removes obstacles affecting your:


  • Employment:

    Many employers conduct local and/or federal criminal record searches before hiring. The discovery of your criminal record will negatively affect your chances of getting a job.


  • Self-Employment:

    Before sub-contracting to an individual or a small business, many companies require criminal record searches for all employees and owners.


  • Career Advancement:

    Many companies and organizations conduct criminal record searches for employees who have applied for promotions. You likely will not receive the promotion and may even be fired.


  • Ability to be Bonded:

    If it is too expensive for an employer to bond you because of your criminal record, you are not likely to be hired.


  • Canadian Immigration:

    Citizenship and Immigration Canada often rejects applications for refugee status, landed status or citizenship and frequently deports people who have criminal records.


  • Custody of Your Children:

    Your child custody and visitation rights may be reduced or eliminated because of your criminal record.


  • Volunteer Work:

    Criminal record searches are required by law for people hoping to volunteer. Most organizations will not permit you to volunteer if you have a criminal record.


  • Apartment Rental:

    Standard rental application forms ask if you have a criminal record. You may find it difficult to find a place to live with a criminal record.


  • Educational Opportunities:

    Many educational programs require criminal record checks, where a discovered record could result in a denied admission.


  • Peace of Mind:

    Most people are consciously or subconsciously distressed by their past criminal records. Removing your criminal record plays a large part in removing the stigma and shame associated with a criminal past.

Getting a pardon helps you avoid

In addition to removing barriers, obtaining a pardon plays a crucial role in protecting you from various forms of social and legal challenges.:

  • Discrimination: Discrimination against people with criminal records is, in most cases, legal. Once a criminal record is removed, discrimination is against Human Rights legislation.
  • Future Accusations: People often suffer accusations and have their credibility questioned because of a criminal record and the stigma of a criminal record can follow you for years.

How to Obtain a Record Suspension

The process of obtaining a record suspension involves several steps, including eligibility assessment and preparing and submitting your application, all while navigating through the complexities of the legal system. This can be made even more challenging due to stringent eligibility criteria, complex paperwork, and the need for thorough documentation. 

Pardons Canada can guide you through each step, helping make sure your application is accurately prepared, promptly submitted and successfully approved.

Pardons Canada undertakes all necessary steps and procedures for removing your criminal record, including: Pardons/Record Suspensions, Purges, Photograph & Fingerprint Destruction, and U.S. Entry Waivers. Get Canada Record Suspension Today

FAQs About Record Suspensions

Legal matters like pardons can bring up a lot of questions. The section below and our extensive FAQ page can help you find the answers you’re looking for.

How long does the record suspension process typically take?

The time it takes to get a record suspension can vary depending on individual circumstances and the complexity of your case. Generally, it takes anywhere from 12 to 24 months from the time of application to the final decision.

What are the costs involved in applying for a record suspension?

Applying for a record suspension involves various costs, including application fees, fingerprinting charges and the Parole Board of Canada’s processing fee. These fees are subject to change, but Pardons Canada can provide accurate pricing.

Can a record suspension be denied, and what are the common reasons for denial?

Yes, a record suspension can be denied. Common reasons include not meeting the eligibility criteria, such as the required waiting period post-conviction, incomplete or incorrect application or evidence of recent criminal activity.