How to Obtain a Halifax Police Criminal Record Check

A Halifax police criminal record check is required for many purposes such as looking for a job, volunteering, immigration applications, or even procuring a license. There are different forms of checks which are designed for different purposes. This guide will explain in detail all types of background checks in Halifax, their application procedures, and steps, and other aspects that one should consider for different applications.

 

Halifax Regional Police offers several types of police criminal record checks, each serving specific kind of purposes. Selecting the correct type of check is essential to ensure that you meet the specific needs of the requesting organization or agency.

 

1. Basic Criminal Record Check (CRC)

The Basic Criminal Record Check (CRC) is a simple background check and is usually required for work or volunteer opportunities. This check limits itself to searching for only Canadian conviction records in the Canadian Police Information Center (CPIC) database.

2. Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

The Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) is intended for persons whose work involves authority over those who may be considered vulnerable, including, but not limited to, children, the aged, and disabled people. This check goes beyond the basic check and searches for records even of pardoned crimes and relevant court orders concerning the population at risk. In most instances, this check is mandatory for certain professions as those in education, health care, or any other field that involves having trust or power over the Canadian vulnerable sector. Vulnerable Sector Checks (VSC) request for fingerprints for identification, which extends the processing period.

3. RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

The RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check is the most exhaustive version of a background check and is usually a requirement for immigration purposes, applications for citizenship, or in the cases of match of name and birthdate details with a criminal record. This check requires an individual to submit fingerprints. Due to the thoroughness of the investigation, it may take longer for the check to be processed, varying from two weeks to months.

 

Residents of Halifax have two ways of seeking a police record check: they can either apply to the Halifax Regional Police or seek assistance from an external platform.

1. Via Local Police Department

One can reach out to the Halifax Regional Police Services to apply. Applying via a local police department usually involves paperwork and submission of documents such as two valid government-issued IDs. If applicants require a Vulnerable Sector check or an RCMP-certified criminal record check, they may request fingerprinting services within the police department.

 

2. Via Third-Party Platforms

Using third-party platforms to apply for police clearance in Halifax is also an option. Usually, these platforms have collaborations with police departments to carry out the application procedure. However, an extra charge may apply for the service. Should you decide to apply via a third party, ensure that the service provider fully adheres to the applicable privacy laws in Canada and has measures to secure its processes concerning the processing of sensitive information. A few of these platforms also provide fingerprinting services in case there is a need for them to apply for an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Halifax Police Criminal Record Check:

Determine the Type of Check Required 

Start by determining the kind of Halifax Police Criminal Record Check suitable for you. Check with the organizations requesting it, as they might have particular instructions on the kind of information required.

 

Gather Necessary Documentation 

To apply, you will be required to present two forms of government-issued identification, acceptable examples being a passport and a driver’s license. If you are making the application via the Internet, it would be advisable to take a proper scan of the identification documents first. The IDs should not be expired and must tally with the details in the application form.

Complete the Application Form 

Complete either the application form by reaching out to the local police department or by using external platforms such as Globeia. Ensure all the personal information including full legal name, date of birth and residence is correct because inaccuracies may cause delays or even rejection.

 

Arrange Fingerprints (if Required) 

You might also have to go submit your fingerprints if your application is for a Vulnerable Sector Check or an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check. This can either be done at a police station or through an approved fingerprinting facility. Ensure your fingerprints are properly taken without any smudges, and also note that there might be extra charges incurred when going for the fingerprinting.

 

Submit the Application and Pay the Fee 

Submit your application along with the required payment. Fees vary depending on the type of check, so it’s best to confirm the fee structure before you apply. Some organizations may cover the fee if you’re applying for a volunteer position, so check if this applies to you.

 

Wait for Processing and Receive Results 

The time taken to fulfill requests depends on the type of Halifac police criminal record check requested. Basic Criminal Record Checks (CRC) may last over a few days, whereas RCMP checks can last over several weeks. Results will be sent directly to you and you may share them as the requesting organization may require.

 

When applying for a background check, ensure that these important things are taken care of:

Ensure Accuracy in Details 

Make sure that every detail given in your application is accurate. Any minor error such as a typographical error in names or the date appearing wrongly can cause delays in processing.

 

Understand Processing Timeframes 

The nature of the check and the application mode tend to influence the time variations associated with processing. In most cases simple checks are completed within a short time but rather fingerprinting based checks can take several weeks or months to complete. Therefore it is important to apply early before deadlines set for submission.

 

Confidentiality 

Usually Criminal record checks results details are privately shared with the applicant. Sharing it with an employer or organization is up to the applicant. For some reasons it would be wise to retain a copy for an indefinite period since several checks may be applicable for more than one application within particular period.

 

Verify Third-Party Platforms

Should you decide to apply using a third-party service provider, ensure that the specific platform has a good reputation and adheres to the privacy laws of Canada. Watch out for extra charges, and make sure the service is able to provide comprehensive background checks that fit your needs.

 

By having a basic knowledge of the different types of Halifax police criminal record checks, selecting the most suitable application method, and following the steps, one can easily apply. Whether you are applying directly to the Halifax Police department or via a third party, prepare your documents, fulfil any fingerprinting obligation and wait for the set period to process your application. You can also use Globeia’s services to apply for a background check online smoothly.