How to Remove Your Criminal Record to Get A Job

Your past can significantly impact your future, and understanding how to remove a criminal record to get a job is essential for unlocking career opportunities and bettering yourself.

Pardons Canada offers a comprehensive view of the process and expert advice and delivers practical guidance and hope to our clients across the country.

The Impact of a Criminal Record on Employment Opportunities

Many people who cannot get a job because of a criminal record call us to get a pardon. It’s sad that oftentimes these charges are old and they could have applied for a pardon years ago had they known of our services.

A client recently wrote us the following letter: “After I had received a conviction for impaired driving, I faced significant barriers in life. One example of the difficulties I faced was looking for a co-op position during the fall of 2007 for my first work term at the Wilfred Laurier MBA program. I was unable to apply to any of the financial banking positions available to co-op students. This limitation left me to be one of the last students in my class to secure employment.

“Next year I am graduating from university, and it is very important for me to be unburdened. Pardons Canada served a crucial role by assisting me with removing my criminal record.”

Navigating Record Suspensions: Your Pathway to a Clear Record

Obtaining a record suspension, commonly known as a pardon, is critical for many Canadians in removing barriers to gainful, rewarding employment. The record suspension process, while sometimes complex, offers a path to a new beginning and a fresh start.

What is a Record Suspension?

A record suspension is an official recognition from the Canadian government that you have maintained a clean record of conduct since your conviction. It effectively wipes the slate clean, offering a second chance at a personal and professional life free from past convictions.

The Step-by-Step Pardon Process

The procedure for obtaining a record suspension involves several steps, starting with confirming your eligibility for a pardon before preparing and submitting the necessary documents. These documents communicate not only the details of your convictions but also demonstrate that you have served your sentence, been rehabilitated, and have maintained a law-abiding life since.

How We Can Help

Removing a criminal record is a transformative step toward new professional growth opportunities. If you have any questions regarding this topic or about pardons and U.S. entry waivers, contact us today or call

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the section below and our FAQ page for the answers to your questions.

What is the difference between a record suspension and a pardon?

The term ‘record suspension’ replaced ‘pardon’ to better reflect the process’s nature in Canada. While the processes are essentially the same, changing the term represents a shift in perspective, emphasizing that the record is not erased but set aside under certain conditions.

Can all types of criminal records be suspended?

While many convictions are eligible for suspension, there are some exceptions. Convictions for certain sexual offences, particularly those involving minors, are not eligible. Also, those with more than three indictable offences, each with a sentence of two years or more, may not qualify for a record suspension.

What are the requirements to be eligible for a record suspension?

Eligibility for a record suspension depends on various factors. You must have completed all aspects of your sentence, including serving jail time, paying fines, or completing probation. Also, a specific time period, depending on the nature of your conviction, must have passed since completing your sentence. During this period, you must have demonstrated good conduct without any new convictions.

How long does the process of obtaining a record suspension take?

The duration for obtaining a record suspension varies, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months. The timeline depends on factors like the complexity of your case, the thoroughness of your application, and the current processing times of the Parole Board of Canada.

Does a record suspension remove my criminal record from all databases?

A record suspension removes your criminal record from the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC), ensuring it doesn’t appear in most background checks. However, it is not completely erased; the record is kept confidential but may be disclosed in specific, exceptional circumstances, such as if you commit a new crime.

Are there any ongoing requirements after receiving a record suspension?

Once granted, there are no regular requirements for a record suspension, but it’s crucial to continue adhering to the law. The suspension can be revoked for reasons like being convicted of a new offence, so maintaining a clean legal record is essential for the suspension to remain in effect.

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.