Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in Canada can be time-sensitive, leading many to wonder, “Can I get my PCC in one day?” The answer to this question varies based on the type of criminal background check required. A PCC in Canada verifies that you don’t have a criminal record or provides a copy of any criminal charges against your name. A PCC is required for employment, visa applications, immigration, or citizenship programs.
Canada offers various levels of criminal background checks to meet the diverse needs of the applicants. So, the time required to obtain a PCC is based on the type of check you need. In some cases, you can get your PCC within a few minutes. On the other hand, some background checks may take several weeks. Here are the different types of police clearance checks along with their estimated timeframe.
Timeframe – 15 minutes
The Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database facilitates a swift name and date of birth-based search, providing a standard criminal record check. This check suffices for most job roles, excluding positions involving vulnerable individuals. The answer to "Can I get my PCC in one day?" is a resounding yes for CPIC checks. You can obtain a CPIC certificate in just 15 minutes.Timeframe – 15 minutes
The CRJMC delves deeper, incorporating the Police Information Portal (PIP) database for enhanced verification. This comprehensive check uncovers pending charges, convictions, judicial orders, and more across jurisdictions. Usually, the time taken to complete a Level 2 Criminal Record Check takes an entire day. However, with leading agencies like Globeia, CRJMC checks can be completed within 15 minutes. You will receive the certificate within a few minutes on the same day via email.Timeframe – 2-3 weeks including the applicant if the applicant has no record
For an RCMP-certified Criminal Background Check, digital fingerprint submission through accredited agencies is mandatory, ensuring accurate identity verification. You can shortlist the agency near you from the list of accredited agencies. This RCMP check is mandatory for employee screening, cross-border travel, government licenses, security clearances, and immigration processes. While the RCMP processing time is swift, the mailing process adds a few weeks to the turnaround. Note that the processing timeline increases ifthe applicant has any previous charges or convictions.Timeframe – 2 to 4 Weeks
Individuals working with vulnerable adults, disabled persons, or children require a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). It involves querying the National Repository of Criminal Records database and must be initiated through local police stations.Though some criminal background checks in Canada can be completed within a few minutes, others take several weeks. For instance, if you opt for the CRJMC or CPIC checks, you can receive your results within the same day. When undergoing a background check, providing all the required information and documents is crucial. Missing even one of these can lead to delays.
If you want an expedited PCC in Canada, Globeia can be your trusted partner. Globeia is a specialized background check agency in Canada that is accredited by the RCMP. Whether you need a PCC to apply for employment verifications, immigration, or visa checks, trust our trained team to simplify the process.