Steps to Apply for a Vancouver Police Department Criminal Record Check

Employers in Vancouver may need to complete a background check to determine your criminal history. This can help employers determine your suitability for jobs and volunteer positions, especially if you work with children or adults.

 

Background checks are also required for immigrant visas outside or inside Canada and for other employment-related purposes. In this blog, we’ll cover the different types of background checks in Vancouver and the steps to apply for a check. By understanding these, you can easily meet your needs and get results quickly.

 

In Vancouver, it is extremely important to know what checks are applicable. This will help you determine which check suits your needs. 

 

1. Police Information Check (PIC)

Police Information Check (PIC) is the most common check when applying for employment. This check informs about criminal records and judicial matters including charges from the last five years, outstanding warrants, as well as record suspensions granted, and more. This information can be found from databases like the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) or others. 

Fingerprinting is not needed for this check unless there is a match with the individual’s data. Anyone wanting to apply for a Vancouver police record check can complete it through trusted online agencies like Globeia, or by visiting the Vancouver Police Department. The Globeia’s online service for the Vancouver police check simplifies the entire application process and eliminates the need to visit any office or police department to complete the check.

2. Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector (PIC-VS)

A Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector is a basic requirement when an individual has to work in a place of trust and authority, particularly in sectors involving children, the elderly, or people with disabilities. Examples include teachers, nurses, healthcare workers, and childcare providers.

This check provides information about, sexual offenses and pardons related to sexual offenses. It also includes convictions, charges, warrants, and other information that is part of the normal Police Information Check (PIC), including absolute and conditional charges.

To complete this check, the police department will search their database using the applicant's name and date of birth. If a match is found, the applicant will be asked to provide fingerprints to the RCMP for further processing regarding pardons. The results of this check complete in a few weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the case. The fingerprinting process depends on any records found.

 

3. RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

An RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check is necessary within Canada or outside Canada. If a criminal record check reveals any case, a further RCMP-certified check may be required. This is a fingerprint-based, in-depth check. The results can take several weeks or even months to complete. This check is also very important for individuals living outside Canada. Globeia provides an easy-to-use online service for RCMP-certified checks.

 

To complete the background check in Vancouver correctly, you will need to follow a few steps.

 

Identify the Required Check Type-

Start by determining which type of background check is necessary for your job or position. For standard employment in Canada or Vancouver, a Police Information Check (PIC) is usually sufficient. However, if your role involves working with vulnerable populations, such as in schools, hospitals, or elderly care, a PIC with a Vulnerable Sector (PIC-VS) check may be required. For immigration or jobs outside Canada, a fingerprint-based RCMP check is often necessary. Knowing the type of check you need ensures you meet all requirements.

Prepare Documents for the Vancouver Criminal Record Check-

To apply for a Vancouver police check, you’ll need two valid forms of Canadian-issued ID, along with a recent photograph. Ensure that all IDs are current and meet the acceptable criteria. Common forms of ID include a driver’s license, BC Services Card, unexpired passport, permanent residency card, Nexus card, status card, or current student ID. If your ID is expired, renew it before applying to avoid delays.

Choose the Preferred Application Method: Online or In-Person-

You can apply for a Vancouver police check online or in person. For online applications, Globeia’s platform provides a convenient way to apply for a Police Information Check (PIC) or an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check. For in-person applications, you may visit the Vancouver Police Department, where you’ll need to submit completed forms, photocopies of ID, and a photograph. Keep in mind that in-person applications can take longer. Globeia’s online service offers a quick, user-friendly option, providing results within minutes for PICs, though fingerprinting may require a separate appointment.

Application Submission and Fee Payment-

A processing fee is required for a Vancouver police check, whether completed in person or through a third-party online agency like Globeia. Volunteers may be eligible for a fee waiver by providing a letter from their organization. Online applicants will need to provide billing details, while in-person applicants should be ready to pay at submission.

Fingerprinting-

In some cases, such as for an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check or if there’s a name match with a record, fingerprinting will be required. This process must be completed through an RCMP-certified agency or local police station. Choosing an accredited agency is essential for fingerprinting, as it may take additional time due to verification steps.

Timeline for Results-

The time to receive your Vancouver criminal record check results varies based on the type of check. For standard Police Information Checks (PIC) through Globeia, results are often available within 15-30 minutes. However, an RCMP-certified check may take around three days or more. Globeia’s online service provides notifications as your results are processed, keeping you informed every step of the way.

 

Completing a Vancouver police criminal record check is simple if you follow the required steps and provide accurate documentation. Whether it’s for employment, volunteering, or legal purposes, knowing the correct type of check helps avoid errors and unnecessary delays. 

 

Using Globeia’s online services for a Police Information Check (PIC) or RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check reduces paperwork and simplifies the application process, allowing Vancouver residents to complete their background checks with ease and efficiency.