How Long Do Canadian Background Checks Take?

The question “How Long Do Canadian Background Checks Take?” is a common query for individuals looking for this check for various purposes like Visa and immigration, citizenship, employment, volunteering etc. The Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) verifies that you don’t have a criminal record in Canada. Moreover, if you have criminal convictions, the background check provides a copy of the same. 

 

Here are the essential aspects to know about the timeframe of Canadian background checks. 

The Types of Background Check – A Decisive Factor 

Note that Canada has several types of criminal background checks, each with its own nuances and timeframes. By getting acquainted with these background checks, you can streamline the entire process. Outlined are the four types of background checks with their respective timeframes. 

Level 1: Standard Name and Date of Birth Based CRC (CPIC)

You can obtain a CPIC certificate when the police search the national database with your name and birth date. It is the most common way to verify whether you have any criminal convictions on Canadian soil. The process involves cross-referencing the RCMP's Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database. You will get the results of a CPIC Check within 15 minutes. 

Level 2: Criminal Record with Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) (Enhanced Check)

It is an enhanced check when compared to the Standard CPIC Check. Note that the Police Information Portal (PIP) database is a common part of the CRJMC. It acts as an additional layer of verification in this background check. The CRJMC provides insights that are beyond the Standard CPIC Check. The answer to the question “How Long Do Canadian Background Checks Take?” can take an entire day. However, with leading agencies like Globeia, you can get your results within 15 minutes. 

Level 3: Fingerprint-based RCMP Certified Canadian Background Check

The RCMP Check, conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), relies on your fingerprint analysis. It holds widespread acceptance as a screening tool. The RCMP Check emerges as a prevalent prerequisite for various Canadian applications, while also being commonly mandated for foreign processes encompassing visas, adoptions, and immigration procedures. 

In Canada, you must submit your fingerprints digitally through an RCMP-accredited agency like Globeia. Refer to the list of accredited agencies to find a reputable agency near you. When you are outside Canada, your fingerprints are taken by local agencies or police. An accredited agency takes three days to complete the RCMP Check, excluding the mailing time of two to three weeks.  

Vulnerable Sector Check 

The VSC is applicable to those who have unsupervised access to vulnerable individuals like elders, disabled people, and children. The VSC involves querying the National Repository of Criminal Records database to obtain a criminal record check. This check could take a few weeks to be completed and must be done by contacting the local police.

 

Your Canadian background checks will be processed faster when you have the right documents. Before applying for a PCC, contact your agency and inquire about all the requirements. Typically, you should provide two valid IDs to complete the background check process. 

 

If you are applying for a Canadian background check, it is vital to know about the timelines involved in each check and the factors that influence them. Let’s hope that now you have a concise idea of the timeframe of Canadian background checks. If you want expedited background checks in Canada, contact Globeia. We have an experienced team that can provide you with expedited Canadian background checks.