Travel Abroad
If you have a criminal record in Canada, you are at risk when traveling abroad. Although policies vary from country to country, most nations have policies that prohibit entry by foreign nationals with criminal records.
Fortunately, foreign nations do not enjoy direct access to the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) as the United States does. This means it is more difficult for them to look into your possible criminal history, but not impossible. Any foreign country can access your criminal record by request through their Canadian consulate or embassy.
If your criminal record is uncovered by a foreign nation, the consequences can be severe, including detainment and deportation.
You should always obtain a pardon before:
- Applying for a foreign work or student visa
- Applying for temporary or permanent residence in a foreign country
- Traveling to a second or third world country.
