All You Need to Know About Surrey Criminal Record Checks

Before applying for a criminal record check, it is important to understand the types of checks used in Surrey BC, and their purposes. Three kinds of Canadian criminal background checks are used in Surrey:

1. Police Information Check (PIC)

The Police Information Check (PIC) is the standard check used for employment purposes within Surrey. This check provides details about an individual’s criminal records, including convictions, non-convictions, warrants, and discharges. It also includes information related to judicial matters, cases, and hearing dates.

This information is accessed through official databases managed by Canadian authorities and the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC). Individuals can apply directly through the Surrey Police Department or use third-party services like Globeia. 

Globeia simplifies applying for a Police Information Check (PIC) and allows you to complete it without visiting an office.

2. Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector (PIC-VS)

The Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector (PIC-VS) is necessary when individuals work with vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, or persons with disabilities. It includes teachers, nurses, healthcare workers, homecare, finance, and others.

This check provides details about pardons related to sexual offenses. It also includes information like convictions, non-convictions, outstanding warrants, charges, court dates, hearings, and other additional information that comes in the standard Police Information Check (PIC). The check is completed using the applicant’s name and date of birth. The PIC-VS results may take weeks or even months to issue.

3. RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

The RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check is critical when traveling abroad for purposes such as jobs, business opportunities, or education. This check uses fingerprints to analyze an individual’s criminal background. The processing time for the Surrey RCMP criminal record check ranges from several days to months depending on the results. Individuals can apply this check using a professional third-party agency’s services. Globeia offers an easy-to-use platform to complete the RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check and get the results within 72 hours.

 

Here are a few things that will help you complete the check smoothly.

Apply for the Right Check

Before applying for any check, confirm with your organization or where you need to use which type of Surrey criminal record check is required. Different types of checks in Surrey, British Columbia, serve various purposes. If you are working with children, the elderly, or people with disabilities, you will need to complete a Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector (PIC-VS). If you are applying for basic jobs within Canada or outside Canada, you may need to complete a Police Information Check (PIC). If you are applying for immigration, or visa applications, or have other travel plans, you will need to complete an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check. Understanding these requirements will help you apply for the correct type of check.

Know About Other Requirements

Along with the specific check, you must understand other important details, such as whether your documents may need translations to be used in different countries. Some documents might require authentication to be accepted in certain countries. These steps can help you complete everything at once, saving time and ensuring smooth processing.

Choose a Suitable Method

You can complete the Surrey criminal record check in two ways. The first is in-person at the Surrey Police Service Department. For this, you will need to submit the physical application form with all required documents, photocopies, and photographs, and wait for processing.

The other is third-party online services like Globeia. With Globeia, complete the application online without visiting any office. Using online services allows faster processing and avoids rejections.

Required Documents

For a Surrey criminal record check, you will need two types of Canadian-issued ID. One ID must include your recent photograph, name, and date of birth. The second ID must include your current address. Also, note that BC Care Cards and Social Insurance Cards are no longer accepted as valid IDs. Examples of valid IDs include a driver’s license, passport, residency card, status card, Nexus card, and current student ID. If your ID is expired, renew it before applying to avoid unnecessary delays.

Application Fees

Whether you apply in person from the police department or through third-party services, you must pay a fee. Be aware of the fee structure before applying, as it may include mailing charges or other costs. If you are a volunteer, also check if you are eligible for volunteer fee waivers. Payments at Surrey Police Service departments are usually accepted via cash, Visa, or Mastercard.

Fingerprint Process

Fingerprints are crucial for RCMP checks and may be required if there’s a match in the standard Police Information Check (PIC). The fingerprints must be completed following RCMP guidelines using the official C216 form. Fingerprints must be accurate and can be taken at local police stations or approved fingerprinting agencies. If using Globeia's online services, you can scan fingerprints for quality review. After getting approval, you can send the original fingerprints to the office. This helps simplify the process and reduces rejections.

Timeframes and Results

The standard Police Information Check (PIC) usually takes 1–2 days to process. RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks may take 3 or more days, depending on the method and fingerprint requirements. Using online platforms like Globeia can deliver results for Police Information Checks (PIC) in as little as 15–30 minutes. With the online services of Globeia, you can track your application status and receive notifications when your results are ready.

 

Processing a Surrey criminal record check doesn’t have to be complicated if you understand the requirements and steps. Whether applying for employment, volunteering, or other purposes, knowing the type of check needed and the proper steps can save time and effort. Using third-party services like Globeia simplifies the process, reduces timelines, and minimizes documentation. Start your application for a Surrey Police Information Check (PIC) or Surrey RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check today!