Those who have received pardons from the Canadian government for simple pot possession may still run into problems when crossing the border.

New federal legislation came into effect last week, simplifying the process allowing those with criminal convictions to apply for a pardon with no fee or waiting time.

The executive director of the Public Legal Information Association, Kevin O’Shea, says the record suspension doesn’t necessarily mean your record is wiped clean. He says it actually separates the person’s criminal record, meaning that it won’t show in a normal employment search.

He says travellers may still encounter problems trying to enter other countries like the US and is no guarantee you won’t encounter problems entering other countries or applying for a travel visa.