Record suspension (pardon): who can apply and how

Waiting periods, the application fee, processing times and the cannabis possession exception.

Key rules

• Fee: the application fee was $50 as of January 1, 2022. You also pay for fingerprints, your criminal record, court documents and police checks. You do not need a lawyer or a third-party company.
• The clock starts when all sentences are complete, including probation and full payment of fines, surcharges, costs and restitution.
• Waiting period for offences on or after March 13, 2012: 5 years for offences punishable on summary conviction and 10 years for offences prosecuted by indictment (earlier offences had shorter periods). If the method of trial cannot be confirmed, the longer period applies.
• Processing: within 6 months of acceptance for summary offences and 12 months for indictable offences; up to 24 months if the Board proposes to refuse.
• Cannabis: if your only conviction is simple possession of cannabis, there is no waiting period and no fee.

Who is eligible for a record suspension? ↗ · Official application guide and forms ↗

Sources and limits

Read on November 14, 2026 from Parole Board of Canada pages; some are dated. Check the current guide before applying.

General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting. Last reviewed : 2026-11-14.