Have you ever worried about your criminal record showing up on an Ontario background check—or wanting a clean slate for job applications, professional licenses or volunteer work—then understanding record suspensions (formerly pardons) is key.
This guide explains how record suspensions work, what they do to an Ontario CRJMC (Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check), the application process and what you can do to get moving again.By combining the latest legislative changes and established practices, this article will show you how a record suspension can open doors even if you’ve had legal issues in the past.
Whether you’re applying for a regulated position in healthcare, security or any industry with background checks, a record suspension will ensure the mistakes of your past don’t dictate your future.
Table of Contents
What Is a Record Suspension?
Old Pardon System vs New Record Suspension
Why Record Suspensions Matter for an Ontario CRJMC
Eligibility
Application Process: Step by Step
Costs, Timeframes and Pitfalls
Employment, Volunteering and Professional Licenses
International Travel
Maintaining and Protecting Your Record Suspension
FAQs
Moving Forward
1. What Is a Record Suspension?
A record suspension is a legal mechanism in Canada where individuals who have completed their sentences and shown good behaviour can have their criminal record kept separate and apart from the public criminal record database. While the original record still exists, it’s sealed from most standard searches like an Ontario criminal record check or an Ontario CRJMC.Key Benefits:
Past convictions won’t show up on most background checks for employment.
You can apply for certain jobs and volunteer roles without the stigma of a past conviction.
It tells society (and yourself) that you’ve rehabilitated and changed for the better.
2. Old Pardon System vs New Record Suspension
When Canada changed from “pardon” to “record suspension” in 2012 it was more than just a name change:
Terminology: “Pardon” implied full forgiveness; “record suspension” clarifies the conviction exists but is kept out of public checks.
Stricter Eligibility: Waiting periods for some offenses increased especially for indictable convictions.
More Emphasis on Public Safety: Certain sexual offenses especially those involving minors are still not eligible.
Many Canadians still use the term “pardon” out of habit. Legally however the correct term is now record suspension.
3. Why Record Suspensions Matter for an Ontario CRJMC
A Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) in Ontario will show:
Adult criminal convictions
Outstanding entries (charges or warrants)
Certain judicial orders (peace bonds, restraining orders)
Convictions under provincial statutes if relevant
When you get a record suspension, your sealed convictions won’t show up on a standard CRJMC. This is especially important if:
You’re applying for a job in Ontario and your employer requires an Ontario background check.
You’re applying for volunteer positions that involve the Ontario OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) or local police detachments.
You need a clean check for roles in child or elder care, security or finance.
Note: Even with a record suspension some positions of “trust” or regulated professions may still require disclosure. And if you’re applying for a vulnerable sector check, certain sexual offenses will still show up even with a record suspension.
4. Eligibility Requirements
Before you start the process of applying for a record suspension make sure you meet the following:
a) Waiting Periods
Summary Offenses: 5 years after completion of your entire sentence.
Indictable Offenses: 10 years after completion of your entire sentence.
Completion of sentence includes:
Full payment of fines, victim surcharges or restitution orders.
Completion of all probation.
Fulfillment of any community service or court mandated programs.
b) Good Conduct
No new criminal convictions during the waiting period.
No pending charges, outstanding warrants or active court orders.
Positive interactions with law enforcement (no new negative police contacts).
c) Ineligible Offenses
Sexual offenses involving minors (with some exceptions).
Certain serious violent crimes or weapons trafficking charges.
Multiple indictable offenses with sentences of 2 years or more each (beyond 3 convictions).
If unsure consult legal advice or check with the Parole Board of Canada to confirm your eligibility.
5. Application Process: Step by Step
Applying for a record suspension can be complex. Below is a guide:
Get Your Criminal Record
Submit fingerprints through an accredited agency.
Request your certified criminal record from the RCMP.
Processing time: 2-4 weeks.
Gather Court Documents
Contact each court where you were convicted.
Get certified court documents showing conviction details and proof of payment of fines.
Expect to pay a small fee for each document.
Get Local Police Records
Get a local police record check from every jurisdiction (e.g. each city or town) where you’ve lived during the waiting period.
This may be your local police service or the Ontario OPP depending on your address history.
Fill out the Parole Board of Canada Application
Fill out all required forms accurately.
Provide supporting documents like proof of addresses, employment history and any additional references if required.
Pay the Required Fees
Application Fee: $657.77 (2025).
Additional Costs: $200-$400 (fingerprinting, court documents, local police checks).
Total Estimated Cost: $900-$1,200.
Submit Your Application Package
Double check all forms and documents are included.
Mail the completed application to the Parole Board of Canada (on their website).
6. Costs, Timelines and Potential Pitfalls
Total Cost: As mentioned you’ll likely spend $900-$1,200.
Processing Time:
Standard: 6-12 months.
Expedited (urgent): Limited and usually only for critical situations (e.g. a job offer that requires a clear background check).
Potential Pitfalls:
Incomplete Documentation: Missing or inaccurate forms are the leading cause of delays and rejections.
New Convictions: Any criminal activity during the waiting period will void your application.
Outdated Police Checks: Police checks must be recent; outdated checks will invalidate your application.
Failure to Pay Fines/Restitution: Even small unpaid fees will derail an application.
7. Employment, Volunteering and Professional Licenses
Employment
Clean CRJMC for Ontario Jobs: Once granted a record suspension means your suspended convictions won’t show up on an Ontario criminal record check (CRJMC). This is especially helpful for jobs in security, healthcare, finance and education.
Regulated Industries: Some licensing bodies (e.g. law societies, healthcare colleges) may still ask about suspended records. Always disclose if the application asks for this information.
Volunteering
Trust Positions: Many volunteer roles in schools, community centers or with vulnerable populations require a background check. A record suspension increases the chances of being accepted.
Ongoing Background Checks: Some volunteer organizations periodically re-check records. A suspension should keep old convictions out of regular searches.
Professional Licenses
Security Guard Licenses: The security industry often requires an Ontario CRJMC. A record suspension can help you meet eligibility requirements that would otherwise disqualify applicants with a visible criminal record.
Healthcare Licenses: Medical and nursing colleges may still require disclosure but a record suspension shows rehabilitation and compliance with legal requirements.
8. International Travel
U.S. Border Crossings: The United States may still have access to your original record even if it’s suspended in Canada. You could be denied entry depending on the severity of the offense.
Other Countries: Policies vary by country. A record suspension has no guarantee of being recognized internationally.
Additional Waivers: In some cases you may need to apply for a separate travel waiver (e.g. a U.S. entry waiver) to avoid complications at border crossings.
9. Maintaining and Protecting Your Record Suspension
Even after you get a record suspension it can be revoked if you:
Commit a new crime.
Provide false or misleading information in your application.
Breach specific conditions set by the Parole Board of Canada.
Best Practices to Maintain Status:
Avoid Further Legal Issues: Any new charges will revoke immediately.
Keep Documents Safe: Store your official Parole Board of Canada suspension notice in a secure location.
Understand Disclosure Obligations: Some roles (e.g. working with children or vulnerable adults) may still require disclosure of suspended records.
10. FAQs
Does a record suspension wipe out my criminal record? No. The record still exists but it’s removed from public databases like CPIC for everyday searches (e.g. a standard Ontario background check).
Will a record suspension allow me to travel to the United States? Not necessarily. U.S. authorities can access historical data independently. You may need a U.S. entry waiver if your offence is considered inadmissible under U.S. law.
How long does a record suspension last? Indefinitely if you don’t re-offend. New charges or convictions will revoke and make your old record visible again.
What if I have multiple convictions? You must list all convictions and provide documentation for each. The waiting period begins after the completion of your last sentence. Multiple serious convictions may make you ineligible.
Can my employer find out about suspended records? Usually no—Ontario CRJMC results will not show suspended convictions. However some positions in regulated industries or roles dealing with vulnerable populations may require full disclosure.
11. Next Steps
A record suspension can give you a clean slate, especially if you’re worried about what will show up on an Ontario OPP check or an Ontario CRJMC. While the process is involved and takes time, the benefits—better employment opportunities, more community involvement and a sense of personal renewal—are worth it.
Quick Facts:
Record Suspension vs. Pardon: Same goal—rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Waiting Periods: 5 years for summary offences, 10 years for indictable offences after sentence completion.
Total Cost: Budget $900-$1,200 including $657.77 application fee, fingerprinting, court documents and police checks.
Application Timeframe: 6-12 months. If you need a background check for a job offer, plan ahead.
Ongoing Responsibility: Be law abiding. Any new offence will undo all your hard work.
If you think a record suspension will help you achieve your career or personal goals, talk to a lawyer or contact the Parole Board of Canada to learn more. With the right guidance and a thorough application you can start building a brighter, more secure future where your past doesn’t limit your future.
Additional Resources
Parole Board of Canada: Offers forms, guidelines, and FAQs about record suspensions.
RCMP Criminal Records: Requesting a Criminal Record Check. Details on fingerprinting and obtaining certified copies of your record.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP): Police Record Checks: Guidance on checks that might be required depending on your local region.
Legal Aid Ontario: Legal Assistance. Resources for those who qualify for legal aid and need guidance on record suspensions.
By understanding the record suspension process and how it impacts an Ontario CRJMC or Ontario criminal record check, you can take definitive steps to clear your path and pursue the opportunities you deserve.