A Halifax police criminal record check is required for many purposes, such as looking for a job, volunteering, immigration applications, or even procuring a license. There are different forms of checks designed for different purposes. This guide will explain in detail all types of background checks in Halifax, their application procedures and steps, and other aspects that one should consider for different applications.
Halifax Regional Police offers several types of police criminal record checks, each serving a specific purpose. Selecting the correct type of check is essential to ensure that you meet the specific needs of the requesting organization or agency.
1. Basic Criminal Record Check (CRC)The Basic Criminal Record Check (CRC) is a simple background check usually required for work or volunteer opportunities. This check limits itself to searching for only Canadian conviction records in the Canadian Police Information Center (CPIC) database.2. Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)The Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) is intended for persons whose work involves authority over those who may be considered vulnerable, including, but not limited to, children, the aged, and disabled people who are specially abled. This check goes beyond the basic check and searches for records of pardoned crimes and relevant court orders concerning the at-risk population. In most instances, this check is mandatory for certain professions in education, health care, or any other field involving trust or power over the Canadian vulnerable sector. Vulnerable Sector Checks (VSC) request fingerprints for identification, extending the processing period. Vulnerable Sector Checks (VSC) can only be applied for in person at the Halifax Regional Police headquarters. 3. RCMP Certified Criminal Record CheckThe RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check is the most exhaustive version of a background check. It is usually a requirement for immigration purposes, applications for citizenship, or in cases where the name and birthdate details are associated with a criminal record. This check requires an individual to submit fingerprints. Due to the thoroughness of the investigation, it may take longer for the check to be processed, varying from two weeks to months.Residents of Halifax have two ways of seeking a police record check: they can either apply to the Halifax Regional Police or seek assistance from an external platform.
1. Via the Local Police DepartmentTo apply, one can contact the Halifax Regional Police Services. Applying via a local police department usually involves paperwork and submission of documents such as two valid government-issued IDs. Applicants who require a Vulnerable Sector check or an RCMP-certified criminal record check may request fingerprinting services within the police department.2. Via Third-Party Platforms
Since the third-party agencies also use the same database as the police stations, using a third-party platform to apply for police clearance in Halifax is also an option. Usually, these platforms collaborate with police departments to carry out the application procedure. However, an extra charge may be applied to the service. Should you decide to use via a third party, ensure that the service provider fully adheres to the applicable privacy laws in Canada and has measures to secure its processes concerning the processing of sensitive information. A few of these platforms also provide fingerprinting services in case they need to apply for an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check.The time taken to fulfill requests depends on the type of Halifax police criminal record check requested. Basic Criminal Record Checks (CRC) may last a few days, whereas RCMP checks can take up to 120 business days if there is a match on the system.
The best way to speed up processing is to get a third party to check your criminal record in Halifax. This can be done from your home faster. The third party accredited agencies use the same database as the police stations so the result accuracy will be the same and you will have to shell out a nominal fee to complete the check within a smaller span.When applying for a background check, ensure that these important things are taken care of:
By having a basic knowledge of the different types of Halifax police criminal record checks, selecting the most suitable application method, and following the steps, one can easily apply. Whether you apply directly to the Halifax Police Department or via a third party, prepare your documents, fulfill any fingerprinting obligation, and wait for the set period to process your application. You can also use Globeia’s services to smoothly apply for a background check online.