By: Artin Nasirpour
Having trouble crossing the border into Canada? If you have been convicted of an offense in Canada, an offense outside of Canada that is considered a crime in Canada, or committed an act outside of Canada that is considered a crime under the laws of the country where it occurred and would be punishable under Canadian law, you may require rehabilitation.
Factors for Eligibility of Rehabilitation for Re-entry into Canada
The Canadian government has outlined factors for eligibility of rehabilitation. In order to be eligible for re-entry, you are deemed “rehabilitated” by the Canadian government if you meet certain criteria:
If you were convicted of or committed an offense outside Canada that would be considered an indictable offense (felonies) that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of less than ten years:
- You are deemed rehabilitated if at least ten years have passed since the completion of the sentence imposed.
- You may apply for rehabilitation five (5) years after completion of the sentence imposed.
If you were convicted of or committed an offense outside Canada that would be considered an indictable offense (felony) that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years or more:
- You may apply for rehabilitation five (5) years after completion of the sentence or commission of the offense.
- Note: you cannot be deemed rehabilitated automatically at the ten-year mark
If you were convicted of two (2) or more offenses outside Canada that, if committed in Canada, would constitute summary conviction offenses (misdemeanors).
- You are deemed rehabilitated five (5) years after the sentences imposed were served or to be served.
If you are currently unable to enter Canada based on a previous criminal conviction, contact The Cronin Law Firm located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan today for your free consultation.