How To Get a BC Criminal Record Check for Newcomers and Students

If you plan to move to British Columbia as a student, volunteer, or employee, you may be required to provide a Criminal Record Check certificate. A detailed investigation ensures you make an informed decision and meet public safety standards. Here, we will explain everything newcomers and students need to know about obtaining a BC Criminal Record Check, including who is eligible, how to apply, and what to expect.

A Criminal Record Check is a document issued by an authorized agency confirming whether you have a criminal record. Canada has a centralized data handling system monitored by the RCMP and local police when you request a criminal record check. British Columbia administers CRCs through the Criminal Records Review Program (CRRP) under the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

Types of Criminal Record Checks in British Columbia

• Standard Criminal Record Check: This type of check is conducted for employees and volunteers who wish to work with private firms and do not involve direct contact with vulnerable adults and children. 
• Vulnerable Sector Check: This type of check is conducted for positions that involve direct work with vulnerable populations, such as children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities.

The latest guide indicates that students enrolled in programs or colleges that include a practicum, clinical placement, or community work, particularly in healthcare, education, or social services, must obtain a CRC. For example, suppose you are part of a UNBC or BCIT program before undertaking unsupervised work with vulnerable individuals. In that case, you must undergo a criminal record check in British Columbia.

For newcomers in British Columbia, a CRC is required for jobs and volunteering positions in the vulnerable sector. Some immigration programs or employers in BC may also request a CRC as part of their background check.

There are several ways to obtain a criminal record check in British Columbia.

Local Police Station: Police agencies across BC include municipal and federal RCMP. These local authorities follow the centralized guidelines for centralized criminal record checks. For busy stations, you must make a prior appointment and bring a duly filled-out form with you to apply for a criminal record check. Smaller police stations and low-traffic detachment centers can provide a more personal approach.

Provincial Criminal Record Check: When an organization requests a CRC in BC, it will provide you with an access code. You can use this access code to complete an online request for a CRC. 

• Go to the Criminal Records Review Program’s eCRC page.
• Review the instructions
• Enter the access code
• Select “Request a New Criminal Record Check.”
• Click on the “Position” option
• Retain a copy of the receipt after payment

Through The Company Where You Are Applying: Some companies conduct bulk hiring and require multiple types of background screening work with third-party accredited agencies, and they utilize their services. They provide an access code, allowing you to use the Criminal Records Review Program’s eCRC page as described above. Alternatively, they may coordinate with a different third-party vendor and grant you access to a platform where you can complete the screening form and review your status.

Third-Party Accredited Agencies: You can avail of online services from third-party accredited agencies and obtain a CRC for British Columbia at a reasonable cost. Some screening services are fast enough to give you results in as little as 15 minutes. For people outside Canada, these third-party agencies can digitize your fingerprint check and coordinate with the RCMP to get your CRC. 

The processing time for CRC in British Columbia (BC) is typically between 3 and 6 weeks. If fingerprinting or further investigation is required, it may take longer. Institutions such as BCIT recommend applying well in advance of practicum deadlines.

A commonly asked question is whether individuals without a British Columbia service card can still apply for CRC. The answer is yes. You can still apply online using two government-issued IDs, one of which must have a photo. Some institutions that require volunteer work as part of the program may also manually verify identity. 

People often wonder whether they can use CRC again after a span. The government mandate suggests that if the CRC has been completed through the CRRP within five years, you can reuse it. However, it can only be reused if the nature of your work is the same as before. You can authorize the Ministry to share your existing CRC with a new employer or academic institution. No additional fee is required in this case.

In British Columbia, a criminal record check is a necessary document for students and newcomers who want to volunteer, work, or study. Timelines can vary, but the procedure is simple, so start early and be proactive. Maintaining compliance with CRC regulations demonstrates your dedication to community safety and professional integrity, whether you are preparing for your first Canadian employment or a clinical placement at your institution.