I don't know how Pardon's work in Canada, but in the US if you have been pardoned by a Governor or the President, and you get asked by a government official if you have a criminal record, (in most cases) you are legally allowed to say, "No, I do not." I say most cases because there are exceptions like when applying for law enforcement jobs and trying to get a government security clearance. Even if you have been pardoned you have to reveal it. Now if you are a Canadian who has been pardoned of some offense, you may wish to check with a lawyer first because I'm not one, but you may legally be able to cross the border and tell them "No" if asked if you have a criminal conviction.
