RECORD SUSPENSION (PARDON) SERVICES
"NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY"
F.I.P.S. (Fingerprints, Identifications and Pardons Services) provides professional assistance with Record Suspension (Pardon) applications under Canadian law. The process is handled carefully and confidentially to help eligible individuals reduce the impact of a past criminal record.
Record Suspension (Pardon) Fee is $600 (plus HST)
While F.I.P.S. completes and manages the Record Suspension application, applicants are responsible for the following third-party costs:
- Digital fingerprints and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) criminal record search
- Local police record check(s)
- Court document(s)
- Parole Board of Canada (PBC) application fee
What Is a Record Suspension (Pardon)?
A Record Suspension, previously referred to as a Pardon, is a formal legal process under the Criminal Records Act of Canada that separates an individual’s criminal record from the active criminal records database.
If you have been convicted of a criminal offence, a criminal record exists and is not automatically removed after a sentence is completed. To limit the long-term impact of a criminal record, an application for a Record Suspension must be submitted.
The purpose of a Record Suspension is to recognize rehabilitation and help individuals live without unnecessary barriers related to employment, education, housing, volunteering, and other opportunities.
Do I Qualify for a Pardon or Record Suspension?
Eligibility is based on:
- The type of offence
- When the offence(s) occurred
- The amount of time passed since completion of the sentence
- Completion of sentence(s)
- When fine(s) were paid
A sentence may include fines, probation, jail time, surcharges, or restitution. Court orders prohibiting driving or firearm possession are not considered part of a sentence for Record Suspension eligibility.
General Eligibility Rules
- Summary offences: Eligible after three or five years (depending on when charges occurred)
- Indictable offences: Eligible after five or ten years (depending on when charges occurred)
Eligibility requirements may change due to legislation or court decisions. Certain conditions apply. Contact F.I.P.S. for the most current eligibility information.
Record Suspension (Pardon) Process
F.I.P.S. assists clients through each stage of the Record Suspension application process. We will:
- Obtain the necessary personal information
- Determine court locations
- Collect and submit documents related to criminal convictions
- Collect and submit local police record checks
- Prepare supporting documents required by courts and police agencies
- Correspond with relevant government and non-government agencies
- Assist with written explanations of convictions prior to submission
Once all documentation is complete, the application is submitted to the Parole Board of Canada (PBC), which has the authority to grant, deny, or revoke Record Suspensions.
As your authorized representative, F.I.P.S. receives and manages all official correspondence related to your application. Case progress is monitored internally to help ensure documentation is obtained efficiently and the application proceeds without unnecessary delays.
Processing Time
Typical processing time ranges from 5 to 18 months, depending on:
- Offence history
- Completeness of documents
- Government processing volumes
Why Choose F.I.P.S.?
- Over 30 years of experience in fingerprinting and Record Suspension services
- Walk-in service – no appointment required
- Knowledgeable and professional staff
- End-to-end application management
- Secure handling of sensitive personal information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
They refer to the same legal process. “Record Suspension” is the current legal term used in Canada.
No. It separates the record from the active criminal database so it does not appear on most background checks.
The Parole Board of Canada (PBC) makes the final decision to grant, deny, or revoke a Record Suspension.
Yes. Digital fingerprints submitted to the RCMP are mandatory.
Processing typically takes between 5 and 18 months, depending on case complexity and government timelines.
Yes, but the process can be complex and time-consuming. Professional assistance helps reduce errors and delays.
Yes. All personal and biometric information is handled in accordance with federal privacy and security standards.
*Processing times may vary if you have a criminal record, outstanding charges, or due to RCMP processing volumes.