Frequently Asked Questions

A record suspension (formerly called a pardon) is a decision by the Parole Board of Canada to keep your criminal record separate from active CPIC databases. It does not erase the record, but it stops most standard criminal record checks from disclosing eligible convictions.

Yes. “Pardon” is the former name. Since March 13, 2012, the official term is record suspension. Canadians still search “pardon” heavily - both refer to the same PBC process.

Yes. You can apply yourself. Third-party companies provide optional application support only. Nationwide is not affiliated with the Government of Canada.

No. The conviction remains on file but is set apart from routine searches. Local police systems, vulnerable sector checks, and US border authorities may still access or retain historical data in some cases.

For first offences on or after March 13, 2012: 5 years after sentence completion for summary convictions, 10 years for indictable offences. The clock starts when fines, probation, and all court-ordered conditions are fully complete - not at conviction date.

No. The PBC may grant, refuse, or revoke suspensions. No company can guarantee outcomes or expedite PBC processing. We focus on complete, accurate applications to reduce returns and rejections caused by paperwork errors.

Sexual offences may still be flagged on vulnerable sector checks even after a record suspension. Standard employment checks typically will not show suspended convictions.

In many cases, yes. Impaired driving is eligible for record suspension once your sentence is complete and the waiting period has passed - typically 5 years (summary) or 10 years (indictable) under current rules.

Only after every part of your sentence is satisfied: fines and victim surcharges paid, probation complete, driving prohibition served, and any interlock or treatment programs finished.

Not automatically. US authorities treat impaired driving seriously and do not recognize Canadian record suspensions for entry. Many Canadians with DUI records need a separate US Entry Waiver (I-192).

A record suspension removes the conviction from standard CPIC checks, which helps with most licensing renewals. Regulated professions may have separate disclosure rules - verify with your college or board.

Often yes. The United States does not recognize Canadian record suspensions. If you are inadmissible under US law - common with DUI, drug, theft, and assault records - you may need an I-192 waiver regardless of your Canadian status.

Processing commonly takes 6–18 months depending on case complexity and government volumes. Start early if employment or family travel depends on US access.

A denial creates a CBP record that may complicate future travel. Do not attempt entry while inadmissible without approval. A waiver application addresses lawful re-entry.

Attempting entry while known to be inadmissible can result in additional denials. Consult a specialist before travel if you believe you need a waiver.

Validity is set by CBP - often 1 to 5 years. Renewals require updated documentation and fees before expiry.

An IRCC process that can overcome criminal inadmissibility for entry or immigration to Canada. Deemed rehabilitation may apply automatically after enough time; individual rehabilitation requires a formal application when it does not.

A temporary override of inadmissibility for a specific, compelling reason to enter Canada - such as a family emergency or one-time business event - when rehabilitation is not yet available.

Rehabilitation addresses immigration inadmissibility, not necessarily your criminal record in the country of conviction. Canadian record suspension is a separate PBC process.

DIY applicants pay government and third-party disbursements for fingerprints, court documents, and local police checks - amounts vary by jurisdiction and how many cities are involved. Professional support fees are quoted after your free eligibility review.

Professional support covers document coordination, form preparation, human review, and time spent navigating courts and police services across jurisdictions - separate from any third-party or filing disbursements.

DIY works for straightforward single-conviction cases when you have time to learn PBC requirements. Multi-jurisdiction records, archived court files, and Measurable Benefit narratives often benefit from structured support to avoid costly returns.

No. The Parole Board treats all complete applications equally. Claims of “fast track” or “special PBC status” are misleading. Efficient document preparation reduces delays caused by incomplete files - not government queue-jumping.