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Record suspension (pardon) and U.S. entry waiver applications

The CSG Avocats team is here to guide you effectively and determine the best course of action to lessen the impact of your criminal record. Several options are available, and it is essential to choose the procedure best suited to your situation — whether it’s a record suspension (pardon) application or a U.S. entry waiver request.

Regaining your freedoms

A criminal record can have major impacts. You may experience issues such as:
  • Job refusals or job loss
  • Travel restrictions abroad
  • Blocked entry at the U.S. border
  • Ineligibility for certain social, professional, or family activities
We understand how these consequences can hold you back in both your personal and professional life. Our mission is to reduce or even eliminate these barriers through a clear, structured, and professional approach.

Understanding the two possible procedures

In Canada, a record suspension (pardon) allows public access to your criminal record to be sealed after a certain period, making employment, travel, and personal matters easier.

In the United States, a Canadian criminal record can prevent you from entering the country. In this case, a U.S. entry waiver is necessary to travel legally.

These procedures are distinct but can be complementary. We help you choose the one that best fits your situation.

1. Record suspension (pardon)

A pardon, or record suspension, makes your criminal record inaccessible to the public, facilitating employment, volunteer work, travel, or even certain family matters.

The application is processed by the Parole Board of Canada.

Our support includes:

    • Checking your eligibility
    • Collecting and preparing required documents
    • Drafting supporting letters and rehabilitation evidence
    • Submitting and fully tracking your application

We take into account recent legal changes, including special rules for cannabis-related offenses or modified timelines. Thanks to our knowledge of current practices and attention to detail, we significantly increase your chances of success on the first attempt.

2. U.S. entry waiver

A Canadian criminal record can prevent you from crossing the U.S. border, even for a short visit. The waiver is a special authorization granted by U.S. authorities, valid for 1 to 5 years.Our support includes:

    • Building a complete file (background details, forms, supporting documents)
    • Drafting letters explaining your journey and intentions
    • Preparing you for the interview with a border services officer
    • Tracking your file with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

We know the DHS acceptance criteria and how to optimize your file to avoid unnecessary delays or refusals. Our experience helps you steer clear of common pitfalls and increases your chances of securing a valid waiver on the first attempt.

Why choose CSG Avocats?

At CSG Avocats, we have set up specialized teams to cover all aspects of criminal law, whether dealing with minor charges or complex cases involving imprisonment.

Each member of our team is trained to intervene quickly, with rigor and strategic precision, depending on the specific nature of the offense you are facing. We adapt our approach to your reality, whether you are a first-time accused or a person with an existing criminal record. What sets us apart:

  • Extensive expertise in all types of crimes (persons, property, drugs, driving, etc.)
  • Human, personalized, and transparent support
  • A strategy built to measure at every stage of the judicial process

Our objective

To help you regain control while ensuring the most effective defense of your rights and interests.

Tip

Contact us as soon as possible! Acting early allows you to better protect your rights and prepare your defense effectively.

Contact us today

The sooner you act, the greater your chances of securing a strong and well-prepared defense. Our team is here to listen to you, guide you, and protect your rights at every stage of the legal process, with rigor, humanity, and dedication.