What is a Pardon (Record Suspension)?
A pardon, officially known as a record suspension in Canada, allows individuals who have been convicted of a criminal offence and have completed their sentence to have their criminal record kept separate and apart from other criminal records. This means your criminal record will not show up in most background checks, giving you a fresh start for employment, housing, volunteering, and travel opportunities.
Why You Need Professional Fingerprinting for Your Pardon Application
The Parole Board of Canada requires specific RCMP-certified fingerprints as part of your record suspension application. These fingerprints must be:
- Taken by an RCMP-accredited agency (like Surrey Fingerprint Company)
- High-quality digital fingerprints that meet government standards
- Properly documented with correct forms and procedures
- Submitted within specific timeframes as required by the Parole Board