November 20, 2024 . 7 mins read

A Guide to Securing a Police Check in Cambridge

For objectives of employment, volunteering, immigration, or licensing, a police check is usually required in Cambridge, Ontario. A Canadian police record check facilitates employers, organizations, or agencies to understand an individual’s criminal history and make an informed decision. In this guide, we will explore various kinds of Canadian background checks that apply to this city, methods of applying for these checks, and what to prepare before applying.

Types of Police Checks in Cambridge

There are various Canadian criminal background checks applicable in Cambridge City. Each check caters to different purposes.

Canadian Criminal Record Check (CRC)

A Canadian Criminal Record Check (CRC) is the most basic kind of police check in Cambridge. This check reviews an individual’s criminal convictions from the Canadian Police Information Center (CPIC) and other local databases. Usually, this police record check is required for employment or volunteering purposes.

Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)

This is a more thorough Canadian background check as it goes beyond the scope of a basic check and also reveals details about warrants, judicial orders, absolute and conditional discharges, etc. from relevant sources. CRJMC is often requested for roles at jobs and volunteering.

Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

A Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) is a detailed Canadian police record check required for roles where an individual has direct authority over Canadian vulnerable populations such as the elderly, and children. This check is fingerprint-based and reveals information on charges, warrants, judicial orders, record suspensions, etc. through relevant police management systems and databases.

RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

This is the most comprehensive background check which is conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and is required for purposes of immigration, adoption, etc. This check is fingerprint-based and requires an individual to properly take fingerprints on a C216C form.

Ways to Apply for a Police Check in Cambridge

There are two ways to apply for a Canadian police record check. Please note that certain methods of application may not be applicable for specific checks. You can select a suitable method to apply as per the type of check you want to apply for and your convenience.

1. Through the Local Police Department

Applying through the local police department is the most conventional method which is applicable for all police record checks. Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) provides services for police checks in Cambridge city. The Waterloo regional police authorities provide an online platform to submit your application for the type of police record check you want to apply for. If you fail to attend the authorities for identity identification or fingerprinting within three months, your application made at the police department will be considered abandoned and will no longer be available.

2. Through Third-Party Platforms

Many third-party service providers offer services to apply for police checks in Cambridge City. Usually, both in-person and online services are provided. If you are planning to apply via an external service platform, ensure that it is trusted and reputed such as Globeia, which has over ten years of experience in providing identity solutions services. Every platform has its guidelines and conditions to navigate the application process, ensure that you do your research and apply accordingly.

Things To Prepare Before Applying for a Police Check in Cambridge

If you are planning to apply for a Canadian police record check, you must consider the following tips to prepare.

1. Arranging Documents and Fingerprints (if Required)

It is highly recommended that you arrange your documents before you apply for a Canadian criminal background check. Usually, for Canadian background checks, two eligible government-issued IDs and a photograph are required such as a passport and driving licence. The documents serve the purpose of proof of identification and facilitate the smooth processing of your application when submitted correctly. Certain online platforms may mandate the applicant to simply just take a scan of a valid ID while completing the application in the cases of basic background checks.

For checks that require fingerprints, such as the Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) and the RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check, ensure that you have your fingerprints taken professionally. These can be done at the police department or an authorized fingerprinting agency. For RCMP police checks, you can go through our fingerprinting guidelines.

2. Understanding Processing Timeframes

It is important to know about the processing timeframes depending on the type of check are going to apply for. There can be strict deadlines for certain purposes such as employment. Ensure that you apply early and after understanding the processing time. Typically, a CRC or a CRJMC takes about a few days. For fingerprint-based checks such as VSC or RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check, it takes longer. Please note that delays can occur depending upon different factors such as the volume of applications, the presence of a relevant criminal record, or pending charges, and incorrect details in the application.

3. Understanding the Fee Structure

Fees for police checks in Cambridge can vary considerably depending on the method you choose to apply. Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) usually charges $40 for police record checks and accepts credit cards as a payment method. If you choose to apply via a third-party platform, the fee structure may vary depending on the service provider and the type of background check. If you are applying for a voluntary role, you may be requested to provide a letter from your organization to get a waiver.

Conclusion

Securing a police check in Cambridge City can seem difficult if you are unfamiliar with the process. However, with this guide, it will be easy for you to apply as our guide explains thoroughly the kinds of Canadian police record checks, different types of methods to apply, and things to prepare for applying. If you are considering using a third-party service, you are recommended to trust Globeia for your police check needs. Globeia also provides additional services such as apostille, authentication and legalization, translations, etc. that you may require along with your police check.

Written by :

We are a background screening and document verification agency in Toronto. While we cover the Greater Toronto Area for in-person appointments, the bulk of our clientele uses our online services from different countries of the world. Globeia makes it simple and cost-effective for companies and individuals to navigate governmental red tape without breaking the bank.

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