When it comes to enter into Canada, there are several things that one needs to take into consideration. One of the usual questions that could be asked, while entering into this nation is, if you have any criminal record or convicted of any criminal activity.

Though some people may think of lying here, however, it’s not a good idea to lie about any convictions, especially, if you are entering from the United States. With the increased collaboration between these nations, access to all types of criminal records of the traveler for a border agent is quite easy.  If you forget or lie about any of your conviction, that could restrict you from your Canada entry.

If you have convicted of any crime or have a criminal record, then after a particular period of time, from the completion of your imposed sentence, you may be deemed rehabilited and become qualify to enter into Canada. It would also probably include any driving suspension on your conviction.  However, depending on the seriousness of the offence, the time period could be from 5 years to 10 years.  If you are not eligible for a deemed rehabilitation, you can submit an application for criminal rehabilitation.

However, if it’s been minimum 10 years, from the time of your sentence completion for criminal activity, you possibly will be considered rehabilitated.

The criteria for deemed rehabilitation include:

• You have only been found guilty for one crime;

• You would be punished for your offence in Canada maximum by imprisonment for the period of less than 10 years;

However, you don’t need to submit application to be considered rehabilitated. But, you can submit an application for individual rehabilitation, if you have passed minimum 5 years since the completion of your criminal sentences and trial.

In case, it’s been more than 5 years, from the time you have completed your sentence, you can apply for criminal rehabilitation.  The Criminal Rehabilitation Application includes information, like, present criminal records, documents of court such as: evidence of the completion of sentences imposed and letter of reference. These applications often take 9 to 12 months period for processing.

Depending on the seriousness and number of your offenses, if the Minister provides you with criminal rehabilitation for your past criminal activities, you will not remain inadmissible to Canada.

However, if it’s been less than 5 years since the completion of your sentence, you are not able to qualify for criminal rehabilitation. In this case, applying for a Temporary Resident Permit will provide you with the permission to enter into Canada for a temporary period of time, regardless of your inadmissibility.

In case you are applying for a temporary resident visa or a permanent resident visa, you will have to provide details of your criminal history in your visa application.