Introduction
Facing criminal inadmissibility to Canada? You’re not alone—and inadmissibility doesn’t have to be permanent. At Visaserve Immigration Law P.C., based in Toronto GTA, we specialize in Criminal Rehabilitation, a process that can permanently remove your barrier to Canadian travel, study, work, or immigration. Read on to understand eligibility, common paths, and why expert legal help is essential—then book your consultation.
What Is Criminal Rehabilitation?
Criminal rehabilitation is a formal process recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that removes criminal inadmissibility. Once granted, you are no longer barred from entering or staying in Canada due to past convictions
This differs from a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), which offers only short-term entry. Criminal rehabilitation is a lasting solution.
Eligibility & Rehabilitation Paths
1. Individual Criminal Rehabilitation
– You may apply if at least five years have passed since the completion of your sentence—including imprisonment, probation, fines, licence suspensions, or other penalties
– Demonstrate that you have reformed: stable lifestyle, employment, community ties, strong character references, etc.
2. Deemed Rehabilitation
– Occurs automatically if at least 10 years have passed since completing all sentencing, and the offence is not considered serious under Canadian law.
– This requires no application—but presenting documentation at a port of entry or visa office is crucial.
Additional Options When Ineligible or in Urgent Need
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Record Suspension (Pardon): If convicted in Canada, securing a record suspension from the Parole Board of Canada is mandatory before pursuing criminal rehabilitation.
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Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): If you’re ineligible for rehabilitation or need to travel to Canada urgently, a TRP may allow temporary entry. But it’s not a substitute for rehabilitation
What the Application Involves
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Forms and Submission: Complete the IMM 1444 (Application for Criminal Rehabilitation) alongside IMM 5507 (Document Checklist) and, if needed, IMM 5476 (Use of Representative)
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Supporting Documents: Include court records, sentencing details, police clearances, background checks, personal statements, and character references
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Where to Submit: Send your application to the visa office or online, depending on whether it’s tied to a temporary or permanent residence application
Processing Timeline & Fees
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Processing times vary significantly—from as little as six months to 18 months or more—especially for complex cases
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Fees: Non-serious criminality applications typically cost around CAD $230–240; serious criminality cases may run up to CAD $1,150–1,200
Why Expert Help Matters
The rehabilitation process is detailed and high-stakes. One misstep in documentation or failure to clearly present your case can lead to delays or denials. At Visaserve Immigration Law P.C., our experienced Toronto-based team will:
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Assess eligibility—individual, deemed, or TRP route.
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Prepare compelling personal statements and gather references.
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Ensure full, accurate applications and guide you through the submission process.
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Coordinate with IRCC on your behalf and monitor timelines.
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Provide alternative solutions if rehabilitation isn’t yet accessible (like TRP or record suspension routes).
Your path to admissibility starts with a simple step: a professional legal review. At Visaserve Immigration Law P.C.:
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We offer personalized case assessments to evaluate your eligibility and best route forward.
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We understand the complexities and nuances of both IRCC’s and the Parole Board’s processes.
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We guide you confidently—every step of the way.
Don’t let past mistakes close your future. Book your consultation with our team today and let’s reopen the door to Canada—permanently.
