A Guide to the Police Criminal Record Check Process in Saint John

In Saint John City, you may be required to get a Canadian police check for purposes of employment, volunteering, etc. It helps employers, volunteering agencies, and organizations make informed decisions about an individual after understanding the individual’s criminal history. This blog aims to explain in detail about different police checks in Saint John City, methods to apply, what to consider while applying, and things to avoid while applying. Applying for a Police Criminal Record Check (PCRC) or other background check may seem overwhelming, but after going through this blog, you will be able to navigate through the procedure smoothly.

 

There are many different types of Canadian background checks, and they also have their specific purposes. Knowing the different types of Canadian background checks applicable in the city of Saint John helps in choosing the right one for your needs.

Police Criminal Record Check (CRC)

A Police Criminal Check (PCRC) is a basic background check that is commonly required for employment or volunteer positions. These checks are rather limited to criminal conviction records searched through the name and date of birth of a particular person from local and national databases such as the Canadian Police Information Center (CPIC).

Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

The Vulnerable Sector Check is a more thorough screening for those who work with Canadian vulnerable sectors such as children, the elderly, or persons with disabilities. This check looks for more than just criminal convictions. It also discloses pardoned sexual offenses, pending charges, and specific judicial orders not limited to restraining orders or peace bonds for various police management systems and databases. This check is a requirement for employment for such positions in healthcare, childcare, community services, and education. 

RCMP Criminal Record Check

RCMP Criminal Record Check is the most extensive background screening of all. It includes fingerprint assessment for accuracy and is conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Such checks are pertinent for immigration, overseas employment, adoptions, and other taller applications concerning intensive background inquiries. Processing this type of record check requires a longer time than the others since most of the timelines can even range up to weeks.

 

There are two methods for interested applicants to obtain a police record check in Saint John, and each application method has its own merits and needs consideration.

Via a Local Police Department

Applying via a local police department is a conventional method. Saint John Police Force provides an online application portal via which you can apply for a Canadian police record check such as Saint John Police Criminal Record Check (PCRC) smoothly. The processing time for a Criminal Record Check (CRC) from Saint John Police Force is about ten days from the time of application submission.

Via a Third-Party Agency

Applicants also have the option of using the services of third-party agencies, giving them the option of avoiding the police department to apply. Third-party agencies provide two kinds of background check services such as online and in-person. Online application method via such agencies involves visiting their website, completing the online application form, attaching the necessary documents, and then making payment for the service.

It is important to find a reputed and trusted agency. Look into its reputation, check privacy laws compliance, and make sure that an agency has the proper accreditation to carry out police record checks within Canada. One such agency is Globeia, which provides seamless online services for Saint John Police Criminal Record Check (PCRC) and RCMP Criminal Record Check.

 

An applicant must consider certain factors to smoothen and facilitate the application process.

Arranging Documents

It is necessary to keep your documents ready which may be needed for submission with your application. You must have valid government identity proof such as your driving license or passport along with proof of residence. For a thorough check like VSC or RCMP Criminal Record Check, you must prepare more documents like a letter requesting it. It saves time to prepare documents early.

Arranging Fingerprints

Fingerprinting is compulsory for RCMP Criminal Record Checks and may sometimes required for other extensive checks. Visit an accredited fingerprinting agency that offers professional fingerprinting services. You can also visit the local Saint John police department to have your fingerprints taken. You can apply for fingerprints on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Saint John Police Force by appointment only.

Finding the Right Third-Party Agency

In case you decide to use a third party, study the agency well. Look for those that have positive customer reviews, a strong reputation, and several years of experience doing background checks in Canada. The agency must also be compliant with Canadian privacy laws for protecting your private information and provide clear procedures for applying.

Understanding Fee Structure

It is important to note the fee structure for a police check you will apply. Kindly note that different third-party agencies have different fee structures. Some agencies charge additional fees as well depending upon the services. 

Understanding Processing Timeline

The processing times for background checks vary. For Saint John Police Criminal Record Check (PCRC), the turnaround time ranges between a few days to a week. However, extensive ones like VSC or RCMP checks require up to several weeks mainly because fingerprint verification has to be done.

 

To avoid any unrequired delay or complication, take note of the applications' common mistakes.

Sending Inaccurate Information

Ensure your application has the correct details. Recheck your name, date of birth, and personal details and match them to what your ID states. Typos, errors, or discrepancies could be causes for application rejection and long processing times.

Sending Poor-Quality Fingerprints

If you are taking fingerprints for checks, make sure to get fingerprints properly taken either from a local police department or an accredited agency. Poor-quality fingerprints could lead to rejections or take longer to process. Ensure that your fingerprints meet RCMP conditions if you are applying for the RCMP Criminal Record Check.

When you are aware of the type of check, your purpose for applying, what to prepare, and what to avoid while applying, it gets much easier to go through the process without any hassle. You can use Globeia’s online services to get a Saint John Police Criminal Record Check (PCRC) in 15 minutes and an RCMP Criminal Record Check in 72 hours.