Bahama-Mama? Maybe not if you have a Canadian Criminal Record

Thinking of travelling post-Pandemic? You might want to get a head start on that Canadian Pardon application.

As we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, many of us are starting to think about that vacation that has eluded us since March 2020. Maybe it’s the family trip to Disneyworld, a visit to Australia to see kangaroos, or a trek along the Great Wall of China; we are all craving a change of scenery. Many people can grab their passport and go however, if you have a Canadian criminal record you might have to think twice before making any plans.

Nervous flyer? That anxiety likely gets worse if you’re adding the possible discovery of your criminal record at Customs to your list of worries. Applying for a travel visa? But wait, there’s the requirement of a criminal record check as part of your documentation. Having to make excuses for not being able to go to the US or abroad to certain destinations to family and friends gets old fast, and let’s be honest, after the last 2 years we all need a break.

Peace of mind is priceless, and pardoning your record gives you that and more. It’s better to start the pardon process BEFORE you need it, and as things slowly start to open up and travel restrictions lift, it’s good to get started early with the Canadian pardon process. Like all good things, it takes time, and lockdowns, staff shortages, and covid-related work absences can all contribute to delays in getting the paperwork together and pardon granted.

Questions about travelling with a Canadian criminal record or after being pardoned? Let us know! And yes, you CAN get a passport even with a record.