Pardons

A pardon allows a person who was convicted of a criminal offence to have their criminal record removed from public record.

This means that a 'criminal record check' made, for example, by an employer or a landlord, would not reveal that a person had been charged, acquitted or convicted of the crime that was pardoned.

A pardon does not erase the fact that a person was convicted of an offence and does not guarantee entry or visa privileges to another country. A pardon will also not cancel prohibition orders on driving or possessing firearms.

An offender can only apply for a pardon once he or she has completed their sentence, completed a waiting period from three to five years, and demonstrated that he or she is a law-abiding citizen.

Denying or Cancelling Pardons

Under the Criminal Records Act, the National Parole Board may issue, grant, deny, or revoke pardons for convictions. A pardon can be denied if, for example, the National Parole Board finds that a person has not behaved well. However, an offender may reapply after one year. Even if it is granted, a pardon can be cancelled if:

• the person is later convicted of a summary offence under a federal act or regulation
• the National Parole Board finds that the person is no longer of good conduct
• the National Parole Board learns that a false or deceptive statement was made, or relevant information was concealed at the time of the application.

Learn More About

• Statutory Release