
Common Questions
How do I apply for a pardon (record suspension)?Last reviewed in April 2023 by the Clicklaw Editors
A record suspension (formerly a pardon) allows people with a criminal record to have it set aside. This helps them access employment and educational opportunities and to reintegrate into society.
A record suspension removes a person's criminal record from the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database.
Good starting points include:
- Criminal Records and Applying for a Record Suspension, from Dial-A-Law, has information on criminal records, including how to apply for a record suspension. This guide also explains the effects of criminal record suspension as well as who can apply for one.
- Record Suspensions, from the Parole Board of Canada, introduces what record suspensions are. It has a link to the Criminal Records Act as well as basic examples of when a pardon can be denied or cancelled.
- Parole Board-Publications and Forms, from the Parole Board of Canada, has links to fact sheets, forms and more.
See our related common questions:
- How can I appeal my conviction or sentence in a criminal case?
- Provincial Court Resources for Everyone: Criminal Court
- See all common questions about crimes & offences
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- pardon, criminal records, application forms, record suspension