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If you don’t see your question below, feel free to contact us. We’ll respond within 24 hours.
Yes. The Canadian government changed the term “pardon” to “record suspension,” but the two terms mean the same thing. A record suspension seals your criminal record from public view, including background checks by employers and government agencies.
No. Once granted, your criminal record will no longer appear in most background checks. Only in rare circumstances—such as a vulnerable sector check for sexual offenses—could a flag be raised, but otherwise your record is sealed.
Criminal records in Canada do not disappear with time. They remain unless a pardon (record suspension) is granted. This is especially relevant in situations involving vulnerable sector checks, such as child adoption.
Lying is risky. If a background check reveals your criminal record, it could cost you the job. While it’s technically illegal to be discriminated against based on a record not relevant to the role, many employers still view it negatively. A pardon removes this concern entirely.
A few do, but Canada's system is unique in its thoroughness. A Canadian pardon restores opportunities to work, study, travel, volunteer, and more—helping you start fresh.
No. A pardon applies to your entire criminal record. Once granted, all convictions and even non-conviction outcomes (e.g., withdrawn charges or discharges) are sealed—except for certain sexual offenses visible in vulnerable sector checks.
It depends. Youth records are generally sealed, but not destroyed. If you were charged before the Young Offenders Act (pre-1984) or later convicted as an adult, your record may still be accessible. Contact us for guidance specific to your case.
No. A Canadian pardon is not recognized by U.S. authorities. If you have a criminal record and wish to travel to the U.S., you’ll need a U.S. Entry Waiver.
You must complete your sentence—including probation—and then wait:
Because the application process can take up to 18 months, we recommend starting early.
The process is complex and involves strict timelines and legal documentation. While you can apply through the Parole Board of Canada, most people find it helpful to hire professionals to ensure the process is done correctly.
Once submitted, the review process can take several months. Delays often happen due to errors or missing documents. A complete and properly prepared application helps avoid setbacks.
No. There is no government assistance for pardon applications. You are responsible for the entire process. Hiring a professional firm ensures your application is accurate and complete.
No. Approval is at the discretion of the Parole Board of Canada. Certain serious offenses, such as sexual violence, may disqualify you. However, success rates are high—over 90% of properly submitted applications are approved.
The government application fee is currently $50. Additional fees may apply if you hire a firm like ours to assist with court documents, police checks, and paperwork.
Yes—as long as you stay out of trouble. A granted pardon is permanent unless you’re convicted of a new offense.
Entry is always at the discretion of U.S. Customs. You may have gotten lucky in the past. Another agent, on another day, might run a background check and deny you entry based on your record.
The U.S. has access to Canada’s national criminal database (CPIC). If you've ever been charged or fingerprinted, your name is in the system.
There are no guarantees. Even minor offenses like DUIs or theft can lead to denial. Any criminal history or past immigration violation could result in being turned away.
Yes. Even if you're just transiting, you must pass through U.S. Customs. If your record is flagged, you can be denied boarding or even detained.
If your record is detected, you could be denied entry, detained, or banned from re-entering. Repeated attempts may lead to a permanent ban—even if you later apply for a waiver.
Waivers are issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security once your application is approved.
Most waivers are valid for 1 to 5 years. During that time, you can travel freely across the U.S. border.
Yes, if you remain in good standing and renew consistently, you may eventually be eligible for a longer-term or even permanent waiver—at the discretion of U.S. authorities.
If you've never been flagged at the border, you might be able to enter. But if you've ever been denied entry, a Canadian pardon won’t help. U.S. Customs does not recognize Canadian pardons.
You can download forms from the U.S. CBP website, but the process is complex. We recommend using a professional service to ensure everything is completed correctly and efficiently.
Yes, but ensure they have experience with U.S. Entry Waivers. These are specialized applications and not all legal professionals are equipped to handle them.
Processing can take up to 18 months. Applications must be submitted in person at a port of entry and require court documents, fingerprints, and supporting evidence.
While the U.S. does not offer expedited processing, our firm can help avoid delays by preparing a complete, accurate application the first time.
The application fee charged by Homeland Security is $1100 USD, non-refundable. Additional fees may apply for document collection and support.
Absolutely. Submitting documentation of rehabilitation—like program certificates, volunteer work, or employment history—strengthens your application and demonstrates you are a low risk.