September 16, 2024 . 5 mins read

Key Factors to Know About Background Checks in Halifax

Halifax is located on the Canadian East Coast. The background checks here adhere to Canadian privacy laws, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). You must give your consent before getting a background check in Halifax. If you are looking for job opportunities in Halifax, especially in the education, healthcare, and finance sectors, you will be required to submit a background check in Halifax.

The turnaround time for these checks varies depending on various factors and the type of check needed. Criminal record checks usually take a couple of days, but comprehensive checks like employment and education verification take a little longer.

The cost of background checks varies depending on the type and depth of your check. Usually, employers cover this cost, but some companies don't have this rule. You must enquire about this beforehand.

Types of Background Check in Halifax, Canada:

Criminal Record Checks verify any criminal history and are commonly required for employment, volunteer positions, or tenancy. These checks can be of various types: one that requires only your name and date of birth and an RCMP-certified criminal record check, where you must submit your fingerprints to an RCMP-accredited agency.
Employment Verification check would confirm your work history, including job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving.
Education Verification ensures that your academic qualifications are valid.
Credit Checks show your credit history and are used for roles involving financial responsibility.
Reference Checks are where your employers contact previous employers or personal references to assess your character and work ethic.

How to Get a Background Check in Halifax

There are a couple of ways you can get a background check in Halifax, Canada.

In-person at the Halifax Regional Police Headquarters

If you live in Halifax, you can apply for a background check Halifax in person at the Halifax Regional Police headquarters. You must visit from Monday to Friday from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm. The fee is $50 plus tax. You will have to fill out the application form. You will have to submit your two government-issued identification cards; one must have your photo on it. You can submit your Nova Scotia Driver’s Licence, Nova Scotia ID Card, Passport, Social Insurance Number Card or Birth Certificate. You must also submit proof of residence such as a utility bill or rental agreement. This is in case you are new to Halifax and don't have an address yet.

Usually, the turnaround time is 2-3 business days. However, depending on service volumes at the time of your request, there is a rush option available for in-person applications. It takes 24 hours.

Online Through the Halifax Regional Police’s Third Party Service Provider

You can request a background check in Halifax online through the regional police’s third-party service provider. Visit Globeia’s user-friendly portal to create an account and fill out the required details. You will also have to answer questions relating to your credit history to verify your identity. Answer them correctly. The turnaround time varies due to numerous reasons. You must check with the relevant authorities in Halifax for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Can an employer ask for a criminal record check in Halifax? Yes, employers usually ask for a candidate’s criminal record check in Halifax.

Conclusion

In Halifax, Canada background checks are essential for employment, volunteering, or renting property. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) handles most criminal record checks. Employers and landlords will request you to provide a background check to ensure their safety. As per Canadian law, you must give your consent to undergo the check. You can approach private agencies that offer screening services for more detailed reports. Visit Globeia for a hassle-free, accurate and affordable background check in Halifax.

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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