But the ban must be lifted at some stage. It has been over five years since he got this sentence. He shouldn't have to pay for it forever.
It wasn't like he was pushing drugs. It was for self-use.
I wonder how someone like Robert Downey Jr, who used to use drugs, goes overseas to promote movies?
From what I gather in certain cases the ban is never lifted, it depends on the degree was the criminal activity that a person was charged with. Border agents have access to the NCIC, a database which holds all criminal convictions that have been handed down in the United States. If your name shows up on that list, and Hardy's would, then he can be denied entry onto Canadian soil.
If you have to travel to Canada for work, school or family purposes, you can fill out forums that would allow you temporary access, but would it be worth it in his case. Also once a certain length of time, I believe it is 5-10 years, and he shows that he has been rehabilitated, he can file for a criminal rehabilitation pass. That would allow him to travel back and forth with no problems. That is very hard to obtain and he has to show that he has attended AA or drug counselling in order to get one. Again would it depend on the crime committed and if he is willing to do the work to get the situation resolved.