What is the Cost of a Pardon or Record Suspension?

If you have a criminal record, you might be wondering about the cost of a pardon or record suspension in Canada. While the Parole Board of Canada charges a $50 fee, the total cost is higher due to additional administrative expenses.

Beyond the financial cost, the true cost of not getting a pardon can be much greater – lost job opportunities, difficulty travelling, and continued barriers to moving forward. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs involved and explain why applying for a pardon is an investment in your future.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Pardon?

The cost for a pardon or record suspension in Canada to be approved by the Parole Board of Canada is $50. However, there can be administrative fees for filing the pardon application correctly. The process for applying for a pardon or record suspension is complicated and requires gathering documents from police, RCMP, and courts.

It depends on the police station and courthouse, but fees associated with fingerprints, local police checks, and court records can add up to a few hundred dollars. The typical cost for a pardon service is $995 + tax, but it can be higher if you have multiple convictions.

The Hidden Cost of Not Getting a Pardon

The higher cost of having a criminal record without a pardon is potential job loss or the inability to get a well-paying position due to companies conducting criminal background checks as a prerequisite for employment.

Here is an email we received from someone who is struggling to get work due to a criminal record:

“Happy 2025 Andrew! Well, I have heard it all when I was told that the Canadian government is helping people who are low-income to obtain a pardon, but I have been hired yet again and let go when they learned of my criminal record. So I am finally fed up, and I will just come up with the money every month until I get it paid so we can file it. I can send my first payment of what I hope is still $250 to start the process, and I will be able to make the payment of $250 biweekly after January 10.”

“Let’s get this done so I can hopefully get a job. I am 61 years old, and I don’t know why I left this for so long. I am hoping that I might be able to get a vulnerable sector check done because I am aware that after I have made the first payment, you will provide the employer with a letter stating that I have a pardon started, as I am seeking employment in the health field that I have so much passion for.”

“I am excited to finally get this going, and hopefully, it’s not going to take that long. I will be ready to retire in a few years after I get a job, and I have lots to give in the HCA field. There are unlimited jobs in Nanaimo looking for people who can make a difference, but unfortunately, my criminal record is getting in the way.”

Why Many People Choose Pardons Canada

The pardon application process can be complicated – it requires precise paperwork and multiple government submissions. Errors or missing documents can lead to delays or rejections, making it stressful to handle alone.

That’s why many people turn to Pardons Canada for professional assistance. Our experienced team will assess your pardon eligibility and make sure everything is completed correctly to save you time and headaches. Partner with Pardons Canada and forward with the confidence of knowing your application is in expert hands.

Contact Pardons Canada Today & Invest in Your Future

While a pardon (record suspension) has upfront costs, the long-term benefits far outweigh them. A clear record can open doors to better job opportunities, career growth, and financial stability. Without it, many people continue to face setbacks, even years after their sentence is complete.

If your criminal record is holding you back, now is the time to take action. Contact Pardons Canada today and take the first step toward a brighter future.

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.