Cancel Criminal Record in Spain

Who it is for

If someone is found guilty of a crime, it goes on an official list called a criminal record. This record can be checked later, for example when applying for some jobs, a security check or a hunting licence. Cancelling the record removes the old conviction from it.

Who can apply

• A set amount of time must have passed since the sentence ended. It is shorter for minor crimes and longer for serious ones.
• The person must not have committed any new crime in that time.
• The crime and sentence must have been dealt with by the local courts.
• The person should have papers about the conviction and their behaviour since then.

What happens

• First, it is checked whether the person can apply.
• The needed papers are collected, such as proof the sentence was completed and proof of good behaviour.
• The application is prepared and sent to the Ministry of Justice.
• Any questions or requests from the Ministry are answered.
• The Ministry makes a decision. If it agrees, the record is cancelled. How long this takes depends on the case.

Why it can matter

A clean record can make it easier to find work, get professional licences, study, travel or move abroad. It can also help a person leave the past behind and make a fresh start.