Volunteering with a Criminal Record: How a Pardon Can Help You Give Back
Planning a trip to Europe? If you have a criminal record in Canada, it could affect your travel plans more than you think. With new rules coming into effect, travellers with a record may face additional challenges entering European countries. But there’s hope – taking steps now to apply for a pardon can save you from unexpected headaches if you’re travelling to Europe with a criminal record.
Travelling to the EU with a Canadian Criminal Record
If you plan on travelling to the EU with a Canadian criminal record, no matter how old the offence and how small the crime is, it can now get in the way of your plans. In the past, there was never an issue, as European border officials never conducted criminal checks and had no access to the CPIC database. However, things are changing.
What is ETIAS?
In 2025, the EU will implement a travel visa program for all non-European travellers entering the Schengen Area – a group of 27 European countries that allow free movement across borders. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) application will include questions related to whether or not you have a criminal record in your country.
Border officials will have access to your records through international data-sharing systems, which means that even minor offences could affect your ability to travel. Being denied authorization through ETIAS means you won’t be able to enter any Schengen country without additional legal steps.
Here are some useful links for the requirements for ETIAS for Canadian travellers:
ETIAS Requirements for Canadian Travellers
When Will ETIAS Come Into Effect?
The EU first has to put their EES (Entry Exit System) into place, and the ETIAS will come into effect 6 months afterward. The EES is supposed to go into effect in mid-2025, which would push ETIAS toward the end of the year.
New UK Travel Rules
The United Kingdom is also introducing its own visa system known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Like ETIAS, the UK’s ETA will ask about your criminal record and border officials will have access to your history and your record could prevent you from entering the UK, even for short visits.
The Importance of Pardon Application for EU Travel
Pardons Canada can simplify the process of submitting a successful pardon application for EU travel. With over 35 years of experience, our team will handle everything from assessing your eligibility and collecting documents to submitting your application.
Once your Canadian pardon is granted, you will not be obliged to answer “yes” to having a criminal record, as it will be removed from the RCMP or CPIC database. You will never have any issues travelling to countries like France, Portugal, Greece, Italy, or any other country in the EU.
Start Your Pardon Application Today for Stress-Free European Travel
If you plan on travelling to Europe and you have a criminal record in Canada, it is important to start the pardon process now so that it does not interfere with your travel plans. Pardons Canada is here to help you navigate the process, secure your pardon, and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
Contact us today for more information on travelling to Europe with a criminal record and how to get your criminal record removed.
Pardons Canada undertakes all necessary steps and procedures for removing your criminal record, including: Pardons/Record Suspensions, Purges, Photograph & Fingerprint Destruction, and U.S. Entry Waivers.
