In Canada, a criminal record doesn’t simply disappear with time—it can stay with you for life unless you take specific legal steps to have it “sealed” or removed. Whether it is a minor offense or a serious charge, a conviction becomes part of your official life-long record, accessible by law enforcement and can affect jobs, travel, visa and immigration opportunities. When you obtain a Canadian police clearance certificate, your criminal records and convictions will appear on the document. In short, a criminal record in Canada lasts forever.

Having a criminal record is not the end of the world. There are certain legal actions you can take to conceal your records on your Canadian police clearance certificate. Obtaining a Canadian record suspension (previously known as a pardon) can “seal” the criminal records on your certificate. With a record suspension in place, the criminal record will not show up on the police clearance document. Should you be interested in getting a Canadian record suspension, contact us for your free consultation!

What appears on a Canadian criminal record?

  • Criminal convictions under the Canadian Criminal Code;
  • Non-criminal convictions (e.g., peace bonds, prohibitions and orders);
  • Youth records;
  • Outstanding charges/warrants;
  • Conditional or Absolute Discharges; etc.

Who can see your criminal record?

  • Police and courts across Canada
  • Potential employers, especially for roles involving vulnerable populations (e.g., children, seniors)
  • Border agents, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (a Canadian record can prevent you from entering the U.S.)
  • Volunteer organizations
  • Professional licensing authorities, including those for nurses, teachers, security guards, and tradespeople

Should you have any questions about the services we offer at The Fingerprint Room Inc., please feel free to check out our website: www.thefingerprintroom.com. You can also give us a call at 604-447-2485 or email us at contact@thefingerprintroom.com. We are more than happy to assist you!

For domestic clients, contact us at: +1-604-447-2485

For international clients, contact us at: +1-844-447-2485

For questions or concerns, email your enquiries to: contact@thefingerprintroom.com

To book an appointment at a location near you: https://thefingerprintroom.com/book-now/

To book an appointment at Richmond, BC: https://thefingerprintroom.com/richmond-b-c/

To book an appointment at Calgary, BC: https://thefingerprintroom.com/calgary-ab-canada/