How to Get a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate from Outside Canada?

Are you trying to figure out how to get a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate from outside Canada? A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) confirms your criminal record in Canada. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)  in Canada maintains Canada’s directory for criminal records. A criminal record check in Canada is an all-encompassing term that refers to the process of verifying an individual’s criminal history. Obtaining a PCC from outside Canada is important for immigration, PR, study permits, visa applications, job purposes, etc. It is vital to determine the type of check you need:

 

In Canada, there are four types of police checks listed below.

Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) Check (Level 1)

The CPIC is also known as the name and birth date-based check which provides a detailed overview of an individual’s criminal history. 

 

Criminal Records and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) (Level 2)

You may have to opt for a CJRMC for employment, licensing, or other volunteer purposes. Typically, it provides information on a person’s criminal record like convictions, warrants, and outstanding charges.

 

RCMP Check (Level 3)

The RCMP check, also known as a fingerprint-based check, provides conclusive and detailed information on an individual’s criminal history in Canada based on the fingerprints.

Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

The VSC is a specialized check required only when you will be working with a vulnerable population in Canada that includes people with disabilities, elders, and kids. This check can only be completed if present in Canada.

 

If you are wondering how to Get a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate from Outside Canada, follow these steps.

1. Get Fingerprinted Locally

The RCMP doesn’t accept fingerprint submissions directly from outside Canada. If you are residing outside Canada, you can go to a local police station, a notary public, or a reputable local fingerprinting agency to get your fingerprints done locally in ink on the C216C form. Ensure that the fingerprint form is stamped and signed by the fingerprinting authority.

2. Submission of Fingerprints to the RCMP

Contact an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency in Canada that can assist you with submitting these fingerprints electronically to the RCMP. This accredited agency will digitize your fingerprints and submit them to the RCMP for further verification and processing. You will receive the Canadian PCC within two to four weeks including mailing time if no records are found against your details.  

 

The RCMP has permitted accredited agencies in Canada to process fingerprint submissions for applicants who may be located across the globe. These agencies are aware of the RCMP requirements and are adept at digitizing the fingerprints and submitting them to the RCMP for the PCC. Listed are some tips for selecting the appropriate fingerprinting agency in Canada for your Canada PCC process.

The Agency’s Reputation

You should be on the lookout for positive reviews, ratings, and testimonials provided by previous clients. A reputable agency will have positive feedback from individuals who’ve used their services.

Cost

Cost is another important factor when choosing an accredited Canadian fingerprinting agency. Note that the usual price for fingerprint submission ranges from $110 to $250.

Experience

Select an agency that has extensive experience in fingerprint submission in Canada. The experience of the company depicts its true professionalism and expertise.

Turnaround Time

Inquire about the turnaround time for processing your fingerprints. If you have deadlines to meet, timely service is of utmost importance. The best agencies can digitize your fingerprints on the same day.

 

These are a few steps that are important to know how to get a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate from Outside Canada. If you are confused about the process of obtaining a PCC, Globeia is here to help. We are an RCMP-accredited agency that provides services for fingerprint digitization and submission to the RCMP. Our same-day fingerprinting digitization services are affordable and start from $110. Click here to get started