A Record Suspension (formerly known as a pardon) is granted by the Parole Board of Canada. It allows eligible individuals to have their criminal record kept separate and apart from other criminal records in the national database.

In recent years, demand for Record Suspensions in Canada has increased significantly. One of the primary reasons is that employers, volunteer organizations, and licensing bodies routinely conduct background checks on both current and prospective employees. Having a criminal record can create barriers to employment, housing, travel, and professional opportunities.

Understanding when you become eligible to apply is an important first step.

What Is a Record Suspension?

A Record Suspension does not erase a conviction. Instead, it:

• Separates your criminal record from active records in the national system
• Prevents it from appearing on most standard background checks
• Improves employment, rental, and volunteer opportunities

Only certain authorized government agencies may access suspended records under specific circumstances.

Benefits of a Record Suspension

Obtaining a Record Suspension may provide:

• Increased employment opportunities
• Greater access to rental housing
• The ability to volunteer
• Reduced stigma during background screening
• Peace of mind
• Potentially less scrutiny at the United States border (though it does not guarantee entry)

When Are You Eligible to Apply?

Eligibility depends on completing your entire sentence and waiting the required period.

You may apply only after your sentence has been fully completed, including:

• Payment of all fines, surcharges, or restitution
• Completion of probation
• Completion of imprisonment (if applicable)
• Completion of conditional sentence orders

The waiting period begins only after all components of the sentence are complete.

Waiting Periods:

• Summary Offence: 5 years after sentence completion
• Indictable Offence: 10 years after sentence completion

If you have multiple offences, eligibility may depend on the most serious conviction.

It is important to note that certain serious offences may have additional restrictions or ineligibility criteria under Canadian law.

Important Considerations

• You must demonstrate good conduct during the waiting period.
• New offences may affect eligibility.
• A Record Suspension does not automatically allow entry into the United States. A separate U.S. Entry Waiver may still be required.

Because eligibility rules can vary based on individual circumstances, professional guidance is often recommended.

Organizations such as F.I.P.S. assist individuals in understanding eligibility requirements and navigating the application process.