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What countries are you coming from? What countries are you nationals of?
The 'criminal record' part could use some clarification, please. Don't post details you are not comfortable with.
There was some action which resulted in an arrest and a conviction.
What is the date (month/year is enough) of the action, and what is the date the conviction was issued?
What is the severity of the crime? Felony? Misdemeanor? Of what degree? Did it involve violence, or was it a 'white collar crime'?
What sentence did the conviction result in, and when was it completed?
Was there a parole period? When did it end (month/year)?
Situation appears similar to this topic, where there are a few other comments to consider:
-> Canada forum ->
How to overcome criminal record
http://www.immigrationboards.com/viewtopic.php?t=18584
Most countries today ask for a police record for the past five years from all places lived. Not sure about Canada.
Usually, the question for a visa is "Have you ever been convicted of a felony/'serious' crime?" And you are given a place to explain it.
Figure out how to truthfully describe the situation so that it demonstrates he is 'reformed' etc. etc. and is not a danger to society.
Also, depending on your qualifications & jobs you are interested in, if you are very desirable for your skills/experience & education, that can help tip the scales in your favor.
the Admin