Step 1 - Obtain your criminal record
Important notice:
Due to the COVID-19 situation, the Parole Board of Canada currently has limited capacity to process Record Suspension, Expungement and Clemency applications, which will result in delays in their processing. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Important
Read all the steps carefully before starting your application.
Please note that incomplete or missing information could lead to the application being returned to you and/or delay its processing.
Criminal record
Get your fingerprints taken. Visit an accredited fingerprinting company or a police service that can submit your fingerprints electronically.
Ask your local police service if they offer this service or visit Where do I get a criminal record check? for more information.
Your electronic fingerprint submission must clearly state you are applying for a record suspension.
Wait to receive your criminal record (criminal convictions, conditional and absolute discharges) or a Certification of No Criminal Record from the RCMP. Any documents provided by the RCMP must be included with your application.
When you receive your criminal record, check it to ensure all your simple possession of cannabis convictions are included. It is your responsibility to report all your convictions to the Parole Board of Canada.
If ALL your convictions are included, go to STEP 2.
If any simple possession of cannabis convictions are missing from your criminal record, you must get a Proof of Conviction for each one. To get this, contact the court that heard your case and/or the police service that arrested you.
The Proof of Conviction must include:
- Date and court where you were sentenced;
- Offence that resulted in your conviction;
- Sentence you received;
- Arresting police force.
If the court and/or police service do not have a record of your convictions, call the Parole Board of Canada’s toll-free info line: 1-800-874-2652.