A criminal record can create challenges long after a sentence has been completed. Employment opportunities, professional licensing, volunteer positions, educational programs, housing applications, and even personal confidence can be affected by a past conviction.

Fortunately, eligible individuals in Canada may apply for a Record Suspension, formerly known as a Pardon, to help reduce the impact of a criminal record and move forward with greater opportunities.

At F.I.P.S. (Fingerprints, Identifications and Pardons Services), we help individuals across Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, and the Greater Toronto Area navigate the Record Suspension process by providing fingerprinting, criminal record verification, and application support services.

What Is a Record Suspension in Canada?

A Record Suspension is a legal process administered by the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) under the Criminal Records Act.

When a Record Suspension is granted, an individual’s criminal record is separated from active criminal record databases maintained by the federal government. This means that, in most cases, a standard criminal record check will no longer reveal the suspended conviction.

Many Canadians still use the term “Pardon,” but Record Suspension is the current official term used by the Government of Canada.

Important to Know

A Record Suspension does not:

• Erase a criminal record
• Remove a conviction from history
• Guarantee entry into another country

Instead, it separates the record from routine criminal record searches conducted within Canada.

What Are the Benefits of a Record Suspension?

A Record Suspension can provide several important benefits.

Improved Employment Opportunities

Many employers conduct criminal record checks before hiring. A Record Suspension can help prevent most employers from seeing a suspended conviction during routine background screening.

Better Access to Education

Some educational programs require criminal record screening. A Record Suspension may help remove barriers to admission. 

Increased Volunteer Opportunities

Organizations working with children, seniors, or vulnerable individuals often require background checks. A Record Suspension may improve eligibility for volunteer positions.

Enhanced Professional Opportunities

Many professional licensing bodies conduct criminal record reviews. A Record Suspension may help reduce obstacles during the application process.

Greater Privacy

Once granted, a suspended record is separated from active criminal record databases used for most routine criminal record checks.

Peace of Mind

For many individuals, obtaining a Record Suspension represents an important step toward moving forward and leaving the past behind.

Who Is Eligible for a Record Suspension?

Eligibility depends on several factors.

Generally, applicants must:

• Complete all sentences
• Pay all fines and surcharges
• Complete probation requirements
• Complete parole requirements (if applicable)
• Demonstrate good conduct
• Meet the required waiting period

The waiting period begins only after every part of the sentence has been completed.

How Long Do You Have to Wait Before Applying?

The waiting period depends on the type of offence.

Summary Offences

Most summary offences require a waiting period of five years after the completion of all sentencing requirements.

Indictable Offences

Most indictable offences require a waiting period of ten years after sentence completion.

Determining the correct eligibility date is one of the most important parts of the application process.

What Documents Are Required for a Record Suspension?

A complete application typically requires several supporting documents.

Certified Criminal Record Check

Applicants generally need a certified criminal record verification obtained through fingerprinting.

Court Documents

Court records confirming convictions, sentence completion, and related information may be required.

Local Police Record Checks

Applicants may need police records from communities where they have lived during a specified period.

Identity Verification

Valid government-issued identification is required throughout the application process.

Missing documents are one of the most common causes of processing delays.

Is Fingerprinting Required for a Record Suspension?

Yes.

Fingerprinting is typically required to obtain the certified criminal record verification necessary for a Record Suspension application.

F.I.P.S. provides RCMP-accredited digital fingerprinting services that offer:

• Accurate identity verification
• Secure electronic submission
• Faster processing
• Reduced risk of rejection

Digital fingerprinting is the preferred method because it ensures accurate identification and compliance with federal requirements.

How Long Does a Record Suspension Take?

Processing times vary depending on:

• Application completeness
• Case complexity
• Documentation requirements
• Government processing volumes

In many cases, the overall process can take several months or longer. Preparing an accurate and complete application can help reduce unnecessary delays.

Does a Record Suspension Remove My Criminal Record?

No.

A Record Suspension does not erase or destroy a criminal record.

Instead, it separates the record from active criminal record databases maintained by the federal government.

For most routine criminal record checks conducted in Canada, a suspended record will not appear.

Does a Record Suspension Allow Travel to the United States?

No.

Many Canadians mistakenly believe that a Record Suspension automatically restores their ability to enter the United States.

The U.S. government does not automatically recognize Canadian Record Suspensions. U.S. border authorities maintain their own records and admissibility requirements.

Individuals who have been deemed inadmissible may still require a U.S. Entry Waiver before travelling to the United States.

Why Choose F.I.P.S. for Record Suspension Services?

Applying for a Record Suspension can be a complex process that requires careful preparation and accurate documentation.

F.I.P.S. has more than 30 years of experience helping individuals with fingerprinting, criminal record verification, and Record Suspension support services.

Our Services Include:

• RCMP-Accredited Digital Fingerprinting
• Certified Criminal Record Checks
• Identity Verification Services
• Record Suspension Documentation Assistance
• Criminal Record Support Services
• Application Guidance

Why Clients Choose F.I.P.S.

• Over 30 Years of Industry Experience
• RCMP-Accredited Fingerprinting Services
• Walk-In Service Available
• Professional and Experienced Staff
• Fast and Secure Digital Processing
• Convenient GTA Locations

We proudly serve clients throughout:

• Toronto
• Brampton
• Mississauga
• North York
• Scarborough
• Vaughan
• Markham
• Richmond Hill
• Greater Toronto Area (GTA)