How to Get a Criminal Record Check in Saskatchewan

A criminal record check is one of the most commonly requested background screening documents in Saskatchewan. Whether you are applying for a new job, volunteering with a community organisation, seeking a professional licence, or completing another application process, you may be asked to provide proof of your criminal record status.

However, not all criminal record checks are the same. Depending on the purpose of the request, you may need a standard criminal record check, a vulnerable sector check, or an RCMP criminal record check based on fingerprints. Understanding the differences between these options is important because applying for the wrong type of check can lead to delays and additional processing steps.

This blog explains how to obtain a criminal record check in Saskatchewan, the different types of checks available, when they are commonly required, and the factors that can affect processing times. By understanding the process before you apply, you can ensure you request the correct check for your specific situation.

A criminal record check is a screening process used to determine whether an individual has a criminal record that can be identified through Canadian police information databases. It is commonly requested by employers, volunteer organisations, licensing bodies, educational institutions, and government agencies as part of an application or assessment process.

The information included depends on the type of check being requested. Some checks are based on a search of an individual's name and date of birth, while others may involve additional screening measures, including fingerprint-based verification.

It is important to understand that a criminal record check is not a single standard document. Different situations may require different types of checks, which is why applicants should confirm the exact requirements before beginning the process.

A criminal record check may be requested whenever an organisation needs to assess an applicant's suitability for a particular role, responsibility, or application. The exact requirement depends on the organisation's policies and the nature of the position being considered.

Common situations where a criminal record check may be required include:

Purpose	Example
Employment	Hiring for positions in the public or private sector
Volunteering	Community organisations, charities, and non-profits
Professional Licensing	Certain regulated professions and certifications
Education Programs	Placements, internships, and practicum requirements
Adoption and Foster Care	Screening for prospective caregivers
Immigration and International Applications	Requests from foreign authorities or organisations
Positions Working with Vulnerable Persons	Schools, healthcare facilities, and care organisations

One of the most common points of confusion is assuming that every situation requires the same type of criminal record check. In reality, the organisation requesting the document will often specify whether a standard criminal record check, a vulnerable sector check, or a fingerprint-based criminal record check is required.

Confirming the exact requirement before applying can help prevent delays and ensure that the resulting document meets the requesting organisation's expectations.

One of the most important steps in the application process is determining which type of criminal record check has been requested. Applying for the wrong check can lead to delays, additional fees, and the need to repeat the process.

In Saskatchewan, the most commonly requested options include a standard criminal record check, a vulnerable sector check, and an RCMP criminal record check based on fingerprints.

Name-Based Criminal Record Check

A name-based criminal record check is generally the most common type of screening. It involves a search of police information databases using an individual's name and date of birth.

This type of check is often requested for:

• General employment applications
• Volunteer opportunities
• Educational placements
• Membership applications
• Licensing requirements where fingerprint verification is not required

If the search identifies a potential match that cannot be confirmed through name and date of birth information alone, additional verification may be requested.

Vulnerable Sector Check

A vulnerable sector check is a more detailed screening process used for positions involving a high degree of trust with vulnerable individuals.

This check is commonly requested for roles involving:

• Children
• Seniors
• Individuals with disabilities
• Healthcare and caregiving environments
• Educational and youth-focused organisations

Applicants should confirm the requirements with the requesting organisation before applying. 

RCMP Criminal Record Check

An RCMP criminal record check is based on fingerprints rather than a name-based search. Fingerprints are used to confirm an individual's identity and determine whether a criminal record is associated with those fingerprints.

This type of check may be required for:

• Immigration applications
• Citizenship matters
• Foreign travel, work, or residency requirements
• Certain licensing and regulatory applications
• Requests from foreign governments or international organisations
• Situations where a name-based search requires further verification

This type of check is used when fingerprint-based identity verification is required. 

Criminal record checks are generally obtained through the police service responsible for your area. The application process and available services may vary depending on where you live and the type of check required.

Before applying, confirm:

• The type of check required
• The identification documents needed
• Any application forms requested by the issuing authority
• Applicable fees and processing requirements

If a fingerprint-based RCMP Criminal Record Check is required, fingerprints must be collected before the request can be submitted for RCMP verification.

The RCMP independently conducts the verification and issues the official result upon completion of its review.

The documents required for a criminal record check can vary depending on the type of check being requested and the authority conducting the screening. However, applicants are generally expected to provide identification that confirms their identity and current personal details.

Commonly requested documents include:

Requirement	Purpose
Government-issued photo identification	Verifies the applicant's identity
Secondary identification (if required)	Supports identity verification
Completed application forms	Allows the request to be processed
Proof of residency (where applicable)	Confirms eligibility for local services
Supporting documents requested by the organisation	Helps verify the purpose of the check

Before attending an appointment or submitting an application, applicants should ensure that all personal information is accurate and consistent across their documents. Differences in names, dates of birth, or other identifying information can result in additional verification requirements and may delay processing.

Because document requirements can vary between police services and application types, it is always advisable to confirm the exact requirements before starting the process.

Many applicants assume that delays are caused solely by processing volumes. In reality, several factors can affect how quickly a criminal record check can be completed.

Some of the most common reasons for delays include:

Reason	Potential Impact
Incomplete application forms	Additional information may be requested
Missing or incorrect identification	Identity verification may be delayed
Inconsistent personal information	Further review may be required
Applying for the wrong type of check	A new application may be necessary
Name-based matches requiring additional verification	Processing may take longer
Additional screening requirements	Extended review times

One of the most common issues occurs when an organisation requires a different type of criminal record check than the one initially requested. Confirming the exact requirement before applying can help avoid unnecessary delays and additional application steps.

If fingerprints are required as part of the process, the timeline will depend on the verification procedures carried out by the RCMP. Applicants should allow sufficient time when a criminal record check is needed for employment, licensing, volunteer work, or other time-sensitive purposes.

For many applicants, the challenge is not understanding that a criminal record check is required but ensuring that identity verification, documentation, and fingerprint collection are completed correctly before the application moves forward. Errors in personal information, incomplete documentation, or identity verification issues can result in additional steps and unnecessary delays.

Globeia provides a structured process designed to help applicants complete fingerprint collection and identity verification requirements efficiently.

A Technology-Enabled Application Process

Globeia's workflow combines digital preparation with in-person verification to help ensure key information is reviewed before the appointment.

Stage	What Happens
SmartForm Registration	Applicant information is collected and reviewed before the appointment.
Face ID Verification	Identity verification is completed as part of the onboarding process.
Appointment Scheduling	A convenient appointment is arranged.
Fingerprint Collection	Fingerprints are collected by trained associates where required.
Letter of Identity Verification	Issued after the appointment, confirming identity was verified, and fingerprints were collected by a trained associate following Globeia's verification procedures.
Submission Coordination	Completed fingerprint cards are mailed to Globeia Incorporated in Toronto, Canada, where they are digitized and electronically submitted to the RCMP CCRTIS on your behalf.
Apostille Coordination (if required)	Where a criminal record check is needed for international use, apostille coordination is available through the designated competent government authority.

Services Available Through Globeia

Depending on the requirements of the application, Globeia can assist with:

• Professional fingerprint collection
• Identity verification procedures
• Document review and preparation
• Appointment scheduling support
• Guidance on application requirements

Globeia provides mobile ink fingerprinting appointments for RCMP Criminal Record Check applications across Saskatchewan. A trained Globeia associate comes directly to your home, office, or a convenient location with the official C-216C fingerprint form so you don't need to travel to a central office.

Appointments are available across Saskatoon including Downtown, Nutana, Sutherland, Stonebridge, and surrounding areas. In Regina, coverage includes the Downtown core, Harbour Landing, Wascana, and the University of Regina area. Globeia also serves Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, North Battleford, Swift Current, Yorkton, and surrounding communities across the province.

Obtaining a criminal record check in Saskatchewan begins with understanding which type of screening is required for your specific purpose. Whether you need a Name-Based Check, a Vulnerable Sector Check, or an RCMP Criminal Record Check, choosing the correct option from the outset can help prevent unnecessary delays and additional processing steps.

Requirements, application methods, and processing procedures can vary depending on the issuing authority and the nature of the request. Confirming the required check, preparing the necessary documentation, and allowing sufficient time for processing can help ensure a smoother application experience.

By understanding the different types of criminal record checks available in Saskatchewan and the situations in which they are commonly requested, applicants can approach the process with greater confidence and avoid many of the common issues that lead to delays.