emigrate to with a criminal record

beamer · Newbie Joined: Oct 06, 2009 Posts: 1

Hi Canada forum,
My dilemma is that I have a criminal record dating back to 15 years ago. The conviction was non violent, only that I spoke my mind to a council official who felt I was aggressive. Unable to defend myself in court due to having a previous engagement {skiing in Whistler} the court did not see the importance to my venture hence the blemish.
Would anyone be able to advise whether or not an application to emigrate would be opposed due to the conviction.
Thank you so much for your time.
Beamer.

buntingj

Beamer :

Welcome to the Canada forum.

Canadian immigration would be more likely to approve your application if you apply for and receive a Pardon, for that minor offence. With 15 years of "good behaviour " you should have no trouble getting it removed from your record.

AS an aside, we have a ongoing dis-agreemnet with the Americans, over our stand on denying entry to Canada to those who have been convicted of criminal offences, especially drinking and driving. Obvioulsy, it appllies to everyone, from any country, but as they are "right next door " they think that we are "targeting them ". In Canada, being convicted of "driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol " is a Criminal Code offence, and conviction results in a life long criminal record entry. They consider it to be slightly more serious than littering. A huge difference in cultural thinking, between the two countries. Not the only one, I might add.

In any case, make enquiries about how to get a Pardon in the UK.

Jim b. Toronto.