November 25, 2024 . 5 mins read

How to Apply for Police Checks in Niagara Falls

Getting a police check in Niagara Falls is an important step taken by most people pursuing a job, a volunteer position, or an immigration approval. Police certificates are meant to be used as an official document that averts the need for speculation on whether a person has a previous record of crime or not, thus enabling employers and organizations to make sound decisions. Creation of this guide will inform you about the various categories of police checks, means of application, ways in which you can make your application process successful, and mistakes you must avoid committing.

Types of Police Checks in Niagara Falls

Various types of police checks are applicable in Niagara Falls, with each one of them intended for specific purposes. It is important to choose the right type to avoid any complications in the assessment of your application.

Criminal Record Check

A Canada Criminal Record Check is the most basic type of police check and is generally requested for employment or volunteer applications. The search examines the name and date of birth of the individual being checked and performs a criminal record check. It covers the details of criminal convictions and summary offenses from sources such as the Canadian Police Information Center (CPIC). The turnaround time is usually short and is often completed within a couple of business days.

Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check

CRJMC is an advanced check. Such checks are most common for employment or volunteering. It contains information like convictions, charges, discharges either conditional or absolute, and judicial orders from various sources. This check is often requested by employers or organizations who would like to have a broader picture of the applicant's history.

Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

The Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) is specific to those working in roles with vulnerable sectors, such as but not limited to, children, the elderly, or disabled citizens. This check is conducted in all positions related to health care, childcare, community service, and education. This check searches information on convictions, charges, warrants, youth records, sex offense-related record suspensions, etc. from relevant sources. This check is also fingerprint-based.

RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check, the most advanced Canadian background check involves the use of fingerprints to guarantee precision and avoid the inaccuracies that come from searches done using only name and date of birth. This check is commonly required in situations involving immigration, overseas employment, or adoption where precise and complete background information is needed. It gives a full history of various criminal cases, including available documentation as well as court verdicts. The detailed information may cause longer waiting periods in regards to processing since it may take the processing of other checks in a shorter time.

Ways to Apply for a Police Check in Niagara Falls

There are essentially only two ways by which one may apply for a police check, either via the city’s local police department or a third-party agency. Each method of retrieving a police check has its own benefits, depending on individual circumstances and time constraints.

1. Via Local Police Department

Requesting a police check from the local law enforcement agency is a reliable and trustworthy option, especially for those who are more comfortable dealing with the police face to face. This method comes with a number of benefits, for instance, contacting the relevant public office to minimize the chances of fraud regarding the request.

2. Via Third-Party Agencies

You may apply through other third-party platforms as they provide the service online and offline. Different agencies have different terms and conditions for their services. Ensure that you go through the terms and conditions before applying. You can check out the services of Globeia, a trusted and reputed agency.

Things to Consider When You Apply for Police Checks in Niagara Falls

Proper preparation is essential before applying for a police check in Niagara Falls. Here are some key factors to consider.

1. Arranging Documents and Fingerprints for Submission

To request a police check, arrange all the relevant documents such as an ID, and a letter of request from the body requesting the police check if necessary. For instance, in the case of checks like the RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks or Vulnerable Sector Checks, one’s fingerprints may also be needed. Go to an authorized agency or local police department and have your fingerprints captured professionally.

2. Learn About Fee Structure

Before considering applying for a police check, it is pertinent to have an understanding of the fee structure. Charges can differ based on the category of the check being done and the service provider as well. Considering the cost first enables one to access a service that is within the affordable range.

3. Learn About Processing Timelines

The processing timeline for police clearance checks differs from each type of check needed. Checks such as CRC or CRJMC are often processed within a few working days making them useful for general purposes. More fingerprint-based checks for instance Vulnerable Sector Checks and RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks are time-consuming and can take weeks to process.

Mistakes You Must Avoid

Avoiding common errors can save you time, money, and frustration during the application process.

1. Submitting Incorrect Application

Please go through the application form twice to correct any mistakes before submission. Incorrect information submitted can lead to delays or even rejections.

2. Submitting Wrong Documents

Avoid submitting wrong or irrelevant documents along with your application. The submission of irrelevant or incomplete documents can cause issues while processing the application.

3. Submitting Wrongly Taken Fingerprints

Avoid submitting wrongly taken fingerprints. To avoid this, either reach out to the local police department or a reputed fingerprinting agency and have your fingerprints properly taken.

Conclusion

Applying for a police check in Niagara Falls is a simple but very important thing to do for anyone looking for background verification for employment, volunteering, or immigration purposes. If you are looking to apply through a third-party agency online, you must consider Globeia. Globeia has online services for Criminal Record Check (CRC), CRJMC, and RCMP Certified Criminal Record 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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