Maple News reports that despite Canada’s ambitious immigration targets, a criminal record can present a major hurdle for those hoping to become permanent residents. However, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides pathways to address criminal inadmissibility and clear the path toward a new life in Canada.
Canada continues to welcome hundreds of thousands of new immigrants each year, with plans to admit at least 400,000 new permanent residents annually. A majority of these are skilled workers who apply through programs like Express Entry, as well as pathways under family sponsorship, refugee resettlement, and provincial nominee programs.
However, having a criminal record may render an applicant inadmissible to Canada. Common offenses such as theft, assault, or driving under the influence (DUI) can result in a denial of entry or permanent residence. But this does not necessarily mean the end of the road for hopeful applicants.
Two primary remedies exist for individuals with past convictions: Criminal Rehabilitation (CR) and the Temporary Resident Permit (TRP). While a TRP grants temporary access to Canada and must be renewed, CR offers a permanent solution to criminal inadmissibility, assuming no further offenses are committed.
To be eligible for Criminal Rehabilitation, at least five years must have passed since the completion of one’s sentence, which includes jail time, fines, probation, and any mandated community service. This process is only available to individuals with convictions outside of Canada. For in-Canada convictions, a pardon from the Parole Board of Canada is required.
The CR application involves translating the foreign conviction into its Canadian legal equivalent, based on the Canadian Criminal Code. This evaluation is crucial, as it determines whether the offense falls under serious or non-serious criminality, which also impacts the application fee—$200 CAD for non-serious, $1,000 CAD for serious offenses.
It’s important to note that unresolved charges or outstanding warrants disqualify applicants from pursuing CR. Detailed documentation, transparency, and proof of positive life changes since the conviction are essential in building a strong case for rehabilitation.
While criminal inadmissibility can delay or block the path to Canadian permanent residence, there are options available. By understanding your status and the legal tools available, it’s possible to overcome past mistakes and start a new chapter north of the border.
According to Maple News, anyone considering immigration to Canada with a criminal record should begin by evaluating their eligibility for rehabilitation and seeking professional guidance when necessary.