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← Back to Law ExplorerLast verified: March 2026 · Source: laws-lois.justice.gc.ca
Homicide & RelatedIndictable
§235

Punishment for Murder

Punishment for murder

Homicide
Maximum Sentence

Life imprisonment (mandatory minimum)

Classification: Indictable
🍁 Immigration Impact

Murder carries mandatory life imprisonment, making it among the most serious offences for immigration purposes. Serious criminality under IRPA s.36(1) — creates permanent inadmissibility. No deemed rehabilitation is possible for offences punishable by a maximum of life imprisonment. A record suspension (pardon) cannot overcome inadmissibility for offences of this severity.

Legal Text — Criminal Code s. 235

Every one who commits first degree murder or second degree murder is guilty of an indictable offence and shall be sentenced to imprisonment for life.

Amendment History (1)
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 235
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