Individuals convicted of simple possession of cannabis can now apply for no-fee, expedited pardons

August 1, 2019
Montreal, Quebec
Public Safety Canada

Starting today, people who have a criminal record only for simple possession of cannabis can apply for a pardon, which will make it easier to work, go to school, travel and actively participate in their communities.

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the Honourable David Lametti, on behalf of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, the Honourable Ralph Goodale, today announced the coming into force of An Act to provide no-cost, expedited record suspensions for simple possession of cannabis.

Individuals convicted only of simple possession of cannabis can now apply to the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) for a pardon through a streamlined, simplified process. The $631 fee and waiting periods associated with other pardon applications are eliminated. Applicants will be eligible even if they have outstanding fines or surcharges associated with their conviction, as long as they have completed the rest of their sentence.

To assist applicants, PBC has put in place a streamlined Cannabis Record Suspension Application Guide and forms with step-by-step instructions, as well as a toll-free information line and email address to answer questions. PBC is working with partners, including police, courts, community organizations and criminal justice professionals to maximize the positive impact of this new relief. For further assistance, Canadians can visit Canada.ca/cannabis-record-suspension, call 1-800-874-2652 or email cannabis-suspension@pbc-clcc.gc.ca.