Character Assessment Process
Department of Home Affairs reviews your criminal record from all countries you've lived in. They check court records, police databases, and international sources. They're looking for: serious crimes, crimes of violence, fraud, drug offenses.
What Fails You
Conviction for serious crime (10+ years imprisonment). Crime of violence (assault, sexual offense, armed robbery). Terrorism-related offense. Immigration fraud. These typically result in refusal. Some crimes create waiting periods (5-10 years from sentence completion).
Minor Issues That Don't Fail You
Traffic violations (unless extreme like DUI with injury). Minor theft (especially with restitution paid). Single drug possession (especially if many years ago). These won't stop your application. IRCC distinguishes between serious and minor matters.
What to Do
Disclose everything on application. If you have a record: 1) Document the crime, 2) Show rehabilitation, 3) Get character references, 4) Legal advice if serious. Full transparency is better than discovered dishonesty.