Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions you have about pardon and immigration services.

Customer Service

Where is the AllCleared office located?

We have an office located in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. However, you don’t need to live in these cities to access our services. Check out our office locations.

How is my personal information handled?

AllCleared handles your personal information with the strictest standards of confidentiality. We guarantee absolute privacy of your personal information and are bound by the Federal Privacy Act. Learn more about confidentiality.

How experienced is AllCleared with record processing?

AllCleared is experienced in pardons (Record Suspensions), US Entry Waivers and entering Canada with a criminal record. We have been helping clients since 1989. Learn more about AllCleared’s experience.

How will you keep me updated?

There are several ways that you will be updated on the progress of your file. Our service includes a state of the art records management system. This system tracks your file activity. Learn more about how you’ll be updated on the progress of your file.

Can you answer my questions over the phone?

Yes, you can have your questions answered over the phone. Our initial consultation is free. During this time, we will answer all your questions about pardons and waivers and let you know if you may be eligible. Check out our customer service hours

Why should I retain AllCleared’s assistance?

You should retain AllCleared’s services if you want to save time and ensure that your application is full and complete. AllCleared processes files faster. We can save you time on your application and help you get cleared faster for work, travel, education or volunteering. Find out more about how AllCleared helps you get cleared faster.

What is the success rate of a Record Suspension or a Waiver application?

Our client advisors will give you a free consultation to determine your eligibility. We only take on clients who have a reasonable chance of success to maintain our high success rate. We guarantee that every application we submit will be error-free, but we cannot guarantee the approval of your application. Learn more about our success rates.

What is the difference between the Standard and Premium services?

The difference between the Standard and Expedited services is the level of service is higher and the processing time is quicker. AllCleared offers two levels of service for Record Suspensions, US Entry Waivers and Canadian entry applications. Learn more about the differences between standard and premium services.

Criminal record FAQs

Do I have a criminal record?

You have a criminal record if you committed an offence as an adult and were convicted in a court of law. If you are over the age of 18 and have been convicted of a criminal offence, you do have a criminal record. Learn more about what goes on a criminal record.

How do you seal a criminal record?

To seal a criminal record you need to make an application to the Parole Board of Canada. A Record Suspension means the criminal record is removed from police databases. Learn more about sealing a criminal record.

Am I bondable with a criminal record?

No, you may not be bondable with a criminal record. However, you may be able to become bondable with a Record Suspension. If a company asks if you are bondable, you must answer “no” if you have a criminal record. Learn more about becoming bondable.

Can I get a job with a criminal record?

You can get a job with a criminal record, but it might become an obstacle if a background check is required. Many employers, particularly in large organizations, will run a criminal record check before hiring a new person. Learn more about finding a job with a criminal record.

Can a landlord ask for a criminal record check?

Yes, in some cases a landlord can ask for a criminal record check. Even if you are a great tenant with good references, your criminal record may make your potential landlord think twice. 

Can I become a Canadian citizen if I have a criminal record?

Yes, you can become a Canadian citizen if you have a criminal record. However, the path will be more complicated. The Government of Canada takes note of convictions both inside the country and outside. Learn more about applying for citizenship with a criminal record.

Can I get permanent residency with a criminal record?

Yes, you may be able to get permanent residency if you have a criminal record. However, you should apply for a Record Suspension or Criminal Rehabilitation first. Learn more about applying for PR with a criminal record.

Do I have a criminal record with a conditional discharge?

You may have a criminal record with a discharge if it happened less than three years ago. A conditional discharge is not a conviction, but it is evidence of guilt. As a matter of law, it will appear on your criminal record for three years. Learn more about  conditional discharge and your record.

Can I travel to Europe with a criminal record?

Yes, you can travel to Europe with a criminal record as long as the country you are visiting will allow it. A Record Suspension can increase your chances of being allowed entry. Learn more about travelling to Europe with a criminal record.

What is a summary offence?

A summary offence is a less serious offence. It’s similar to the American concept of “misdemeanour”, but not exactly the same. In Canada, criminal offences are divided into two major categories: summary or indictable. Learn more about summary offences.

What is an indictable offence?

An indictable offence is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada that carries more serious penalties. This often includes jail time. If you were convicted of an indictable offence, you must wait 10 years after the completion of your sentence before requesting a pardon. Learn more about indictable offences.

When can a criminal record be expunged?

When a criminal record can be expunged depends on the nature of the record. A criminal conviction record stays with you unless you take steps to receive a Record Suspension, also called a pardon. Learn more about when your criminal record can be expunged.

Can my military record be pardoned?

Yes, your military record can be pardoned after the Record Suspension process. When your criminal record is suspended, your service record will also be amended. Learn more about getting your record amended.

Can a criminal record affect adoption?

Yes, a criminal record can affect adoption. It is recommended that you apply for a Canadian pardon (Record Suspension) before you make an application. Learn more about adoption with a criminal record.

What if I have been charged but not convicted?

If you have been charged but not convicted of a criminal offence, you may still have a criminal record. These charges can show up as dismissed, withdrawn, stayed, or discharged on your federal criminal record. Learn more about how charges appear on your record.

Why would I need my police profile deleted?

You may need to have your police file deleted if it is still showing up on record checks. A Police File Deletion is a process that removes records of non-convictions such as withdrawn, stayed, or discharged offences. Learn more about deleting your police file.

Is a DUI on a background check?

Yes, a DUI will appear on a background check. This is because a DUI is considered a criminal offence in Canada. To remove it, you will need to apply for a Record Suspension. Learn more about how a DUI appears on a background check.

Record Suspension FAQs

What is a Record Suspension in Canada?

A Record Suspension is acknowledgement from the Federal Government that a person with a criminal conviction has demonstrated good conduct for a certain period of time and therefore the conviction should no longer reflect on the person’s character.Once the Record Suspension is granted all information pertaining to the prior conviction/s will be sealed and will no longer appear on a criminal record check.

How do you apply for a pardon in Canada?

You apply for a pardon in Canada by making a Record Suspension application through the Parole Board of Canada. This is the government body that reviews and approves applications. Learn more about applying for a record suspension.

Is a Record Suspension the same as a pardon?

Yes, a Record Suspension is the same as a pardon. Until the government of Canada changed the name in 2012, a record suspension was called a pardon. Learn more about changes to the pardon process.

Who can apply for a pardon in Canada?

There are several factors that determine when you may be eligible to apply for a Record Suspension. It will depend on whether your offence was summary or indictable, in which year you were charged and in which year you completed your sentence. To determine your eligibility you can call us for a free consultation. Learn more about applying for a record suspension.

How long does it take to get a pardon in Canada?

It can take anywhere from 12 months to two years to obtain a pardon. As with any government process, getting a pardon, now called Record Suspension, is not automatic. Learn more about the timeline for record suspensions.

How much does it cost to get a pardon in Canada?

It costs $657.77 to get a pardon in Canada. However, there are expenses other than the application cost to consider. The Canadian government has steadily increased the basic application fee over the years. Learn more about the cost of a record suspension.

Does a pardon erase a criminal record?

A pardon doesn’t erase a criminal record, but it does seal it. Technically, the criminal record can come back if the Record Suspension is revoked. Once your Record Suspension is approved, your conviction no longer appears in the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database. Learn more about sealing your criminal record.

Why get a record suspension?

You should get a Record Suspension in order to put the past behind you and move forward with confidence. A Record Suspension will remove the barriers that may hold you back and open up more opportunities. Find out why you should get a record suspension.

Can a Record Suspension or Pardon be revoked?

Yes, a Record Suspension or pardon can be revoked. This may happen, if you no longer appear to be living a law-abiding lifestyle. For example, the Parole Board of Canada can revoke a pardon or Record Suspension for the following reasons. Learn more about record suspension revocation.

What limitations apply to a Record Suspension or Pardon?

The limitations of a Record Suspension or pardon include the fact that your record will still exist, but it will be sealed. A Record Suspension will seal your federal criminal record, but it cannot completely erase the fact that you ever had a conviction. Learn more about the limitations of a record suspension.

Do I need a lawyer or a representative to apply for a pardon (record suspension)?

You do not need a lawyer or any sort of representation in order to apply for a Canadian Record Suspension (pardon). All the required forms, as well as instructions for the application, can be obtained from the Parole Board of Canada’s website. Learn more about the representation you need for a record suspension.

What is the process for obtaining a Record Suspension or Pardon?

The process to obtain a Record Suspension (pardon) involves obtaining your records and filing an application with the Parole Board of Canada. The time to acquire a Canadian Record Suspension varies. Learn more about the record suspension process.

US Waiver FAQs

Can I travel to the USA with a criminal record?

If you have a criminal record in Canada you may be required to obtain a US Waiver before you are permitted to cross the border. This document, provided by the Department of Homeland Security, overrides the personal discretion of border security officers. Learn more about travelling to the USA with a criminal record.

What is a US Entry Waiver?

A US Entry Waiver, which is sometimes referred to as an I-192 application or an “Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant,” is a document that allows a non-U.S. citizen temporary access into the United States. Learn more about the US Entry Waiver.

How long is a US Entry Waiver good for?

A US Entry Waiver is generally good for one to five years. US Entry Waivers are essential documents for Canadians who have a criminal record and need to travel to the US. Learn more about how long a US Entry Waiver is good for.

How to renew a US Entry Waiver?

To renew a US Entry Waiver, you should follow the same process you took on your initial waiver. That’s why it’s a good idea to photocopy your Waiver application and store it in a safe place before delivering the original to the border. Learn more about US Entry Waiver renewals.

Do I need a US Entry Waiver?

Whether or not you need a US Entry Waiver depends on the type of offence on your record. If you travel to the United States, you do not want any hassles at the border. Find out if you need a US Entry Waiver.

Can I enter the US with a DUI?

Yes, you can enter the US with a DUI in most cases. It is unlikely that a DUI conviction will prevent you from entering the US unless there are multiple offences or there are additional charges. Learn more about entering the US with a DUI.

How do you apply for a US Entry Waiver?

To apply for a US Entry Waiver you need to put together an application package demonstrating that you are now a law-abiding person who poses no risk to the country. Find out how to apply for a US Entry Waiver.

How long does it take to get a US Entry Waiver?

It takes roughly a year to get a US Entry Waiver. Without one, a criminal record can be a barrier to traveling to the US from Canada. A US Entry Waiver eliminates that barrier by providing approval to enter the country. Learn more about the timeline for US Entry Waivers.

Do I need a US Entry Waiver if I have a pardon?

Yes, you may need a US Entry Waiver even if you have a pardon. The United States makes its own rules about who is allowed to cross the border into its territory. Learn more about travelling with a pardon.

Do I require a lawyer to apply for a US Entry Waiver?

No, you do not require a lawyer to apply for a US Entry Waiver. All the required forms, as well as instructions for the application, can be obtained from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency’s website. Learn more about the representation you need for a US Entry Waiver.

What documentation is required for a US Entry Waiver?

The documentation required for a US Entry Waiver includes: 1) Evidence of citizenship; 2) Completed I-192 and G-325a forms; 3) A copy of your criminal record: 4) Certified records; and, 5) Payment. Learn more about the documentation required for a US Waiver.

How does a granted Record Suspension or Pardon affect my US Entry Waiver application?

A granted Record Suspension or pardon will affect your US Entry Waiver application by adding some extra steps. Once you have a pardon or granted Record Suspension, any associated information located at the court level will be sealed, limiting future access. Find out how a granted Record Suspension or pardon will affect your US Entry Waiver application.

Do all convictions make me inadmissible to the United States?

No, not all convictions will make you inadmissible to the United States. The principle criteria for whether a not an offence will render you inadmissible to the United States is if it is deemed an offence of “moral turpitude”. Learn more about what convictions make you inadmissable to the US.

Am I eligible for a US Entry Waiver?

You may or may not be eligible for a US Entry Waiver. Unlike a Canadian pardon or Record Suspension, there are no set eligibility requirements for US Entry Waivers. Find out if you’re eligible for a US Entry Waiver.

What limitations are there on a US Entry Waiver?

The limitations of a US Entry Waiver are the fact that it is temporary, you could be denied for something unrelated to your record and you cannot live, work or study in the US with just a waiver. Learn more about the limitations of a US Entry Waiver.

How much does a US Entry Waiver cost?

The US Government fee is $585 USD, which you must pay on submitting your application. Most Canadians submit their application at a port of entry or via e-safe.

Canadian Waiver FAQs

Do I need a Temporary Resident Permit?

You will need a Temporary Resident Permit if you have a DUI or a serious criminal record and it has been less than five years since you completed the conditions of your sentence.  Find out if you need a TRP.

What is criminal rehabilitation in Canada?

Criminal Rehabilitation is a permanent waiver, issued to you in the form of a letter that allows you to enter Canada with a criminal record. If you have been convicted of an offence outside of Canada, you may be inadmissible to enter the country. Learn more about criminal rehabilitation in Canada.

Can I travel to Canada with a criminal record?

You may be able to travel to Canada with a criminal record with a minor offence as long as it is not DUI. However, for many offences, the government of Canada may consider you to be “criminally inadmissible.” Learn more about travelling to Canada with a criminal record.

Can I enter Canada with a DUI?

In most cases you cannot enter Canada with a DUI. Individuals with a criminal record, including Americans with DUI convictions, may be denied entry. Learn more about entering Canada with a DUI.

When can I apply for Canadian rehabilitation?

You can usually apply for Canadian rehabilitation five years after a sentence ends. People who have been convicted of a crime outside of Canada are usually inadmissible to enter Canada. Learn more about the timeline for Canadian rehabilitation.

Immigration Canada FAQs

Is a job offer required for immigration to Canada under the Skilled worker/Professional category?

No. Applicants can still qualify for a Canada Immigration (Permanent Resident) Visa without a Canadian job offer. Learn more about immigrating to Canada without a job.

What is the difference between a Study Permit and a Temporary Resident Visa?
What is a Work Permit?

Work visas and employment authorizations are known as work permits in Canada. Learn more about Canadian work permits.

What are the advantages of hiring a legal representative in Canada for the purposes of Immigration?

Having a legal representative in Canada with expertise in the area of work permits is the most efficient way to proceed. Learn more about legal representation during the immigration process.

Who can qualify for Canadian Permanent Residency?

There are many people who qualify. Learn more about who can qualify for Canadian Permanent Residency

Can a Spouse/Common Law Partner and children come with a Temporary Worker to Canada?
What is a Post Graduate Work Permit (PWGP)?

A PGWP is an open work permit available to international graduates. Learn more about the Post Graduate Work Permit.

What is the Canadian Business Class?

The Canadian Business Class is a category of Canadian Immigration under which individuals with business/managerial experience and relatively high net-worth may qualify for a Canada Immigration (Permanent Resident) Visa. Learn more about the Canadian Business Class.

Who can qualify for Canadian Refugee Status?
Who can qualify for Immigration under Family Sponsorship category?

Eligibility calculators

RECORD SUSPENSION

Clears your criminal record so you can start fresh.

CANADIAN ENTRY WAIVER

Lets you enter Canada despite a criminal record.

US ENTRY WAIVER

Lets you enter the US despite a criminal record.

IMMIGRATE TO CANADA

Live, Work, Study, or Visit Canada.