top of page
Judges Examining Document

criminal rehabilitation

Have a past criminal conviction preventing you from entering Canada? Criminal Rehabilitation offers a path to overcome inadmissibility. If it’s been at least 5 years since you completed your sentence, you may be eligible to apply.

frequently asked questions

1

What is Criminal Rehabilitation in Canada, and who needs it?

Criminal Rehabilitation is a process for individuals with past criminal convictions outside of Canada to demonstrate they are now rehabilitated and no longer pose a safety risk. Individuals who wish to visit, work, or immigrate to Canada and have past convictions that make them inadmissible need to apply for criminal rehabilitation.

2

When can I apply for Criminal Rehabilitation?

You can apply for criminal rehabilitation five years after completing all aspects of your sentence, including fines, probation, and community service. The five-year period begins once the sentence has been fully served, not from the date of the conviction.

3

Can I enter Canada while my Criminal Rehabilitation application is being processed?

Generally, you cannot enter Canada while your application for criminal rehabilitation is still under review. However, you may be eligible for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) if you have a compelling reason to visit during this period. A TRP allows you temporary entry into Canada but is granted at the discretion of immigration officers.

bottom of page