How to get a record suspension in Canada (quick answer)
A record suspension (pardon) is granted only by the Parole Board of Canada (PBC). You must complete your entire sentence, wait the required period (5 or 10 years for most current offences), gather nine categories of documents, and submit a complete application. You can apply yourself or use independent application support - Nationwide helps with document coordination and human-reviewed packages.
Last updated: July 2026. Verify current rules at canada.ca/record-suspensions.
What is a record suspension?
A record suspension keeps your criminal record separate and apart from active CPIC searches used in most employment, volunteering, and licensing background checks. It is not erasure - the PBC retains the record - but it removes the conviction from routine disclosure.
Since March 13, 2012, the official term is record suspension. Canadians still search “pardon” - both refer to the same federal process under the Criminal Records Act.
Who is eligible?
Eligibility depends on first offence date, offence type (summary vs indictable), sentence completion, and conduct since sentencing.
| First offence committed | Summary wait | Indictable wait |
|---|---|---|
| Before June 29, 2010 | 3 years | 5 years |
| June 29, 2010 – March 12, 2012 | 3 years | 5–10 years* |
| On or after March 13, 2012 | 5 years | 10 years |
*Some serious offences under transitional rules require 10 years.
You cannot apply if convicted of certain Schedule 1 sexual offences (without exception), if you have 3+ indictable convictions each with 2+ year sentences, or if you have pending charges.
See our full eligibility guide or book a free eligibility review.
The 9-step PBC application process
- RCMP criminal record - electronic fingerprints to RCMP
- Court information - Proof of Conviction for each offence
- Military Conduct Sheet - if you served in the Canadian Forces
- Local police record checks - every city lived in past 5 years (valid 12 months)
- Identity document - government-issued photo ID copy
- Schedule 1 Exception Form - if applicable
- Record Suspension Application Form - signed within 12 months of submission
- Measurable Benefit / Sustained Rehabilitation Form
See our step-by-step application guide for the full document list.
What it costs
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 is quoted after eligibility review. See our cost guide for what to expect.
How long it takes
Preparation (document collection) is often the longest phase and depends on how many courts and cities are involved.
Government processing begins only after a complete file is accepted.
Details: processing time guide.
Common mistakes that delay applications
- Applying before sentence is fully complete (unpaid fines, active probation)
- Police checks expired (12-month validity) at submission
- Missing checks from cities lived in during past 5 years
- Forms signed more than 12 months before filing
- Measurable Benefit narrative that ignores public benefit criteria
Incomplete applications are returned unprocessed - restarting your timeline.
Record suspension vs US travel
A Canadian record suspension does not guarantee US entry. If you need to travel south of the border, you may also need a US Entry Waiver (I-192). Read our US waiver complete guide.
Next steps
Start with a free eligibility review. We confirm your waiting period, explain costs, and outline exactly what happens next - before you commit.