A Police Certificate (PCC), also known as a police clearance or police check, is a required document for most Canadian immigration applications, including Permanent Residence, temporary residence, and citizenship. It provides a record of any criminal charges or confirms the absence of a criminal record in the country where it was issued.
When Is a Police Certificate Required?
Applicants must submit a PCC from any country where they’ve lived for 6 consecutive months or more in the last 10 years or since turning 18. Family members over 18 must also provide a PCC. For Canadian Citizenship, the PCC must cover the 4 years prior to applying.
Canadian Police Clearance
A Canadian Police Certificate is not required. The RCMP will check your criminal record directly. In rare cases, a fingerprint-based certificate may be requested.
Validity of Police Certificates
The validity of a PCC depends on where you’re residing:
- If you’re in the country that issued it, the certificate must be less than 6 months old.
- If you’re outside that country, a certificate issued after your last residence there remains valid.
Obtaining the Correct Police Certificate
Ensure you apply for the exact certificate required by the authorities in the relevant country. Some countries require multiple PCCs, such as Italy. Carefully review the IRCC guidelines for each country.
Submitting the Police Certificate
For online applications, upload a color scan of the PCC. For paper applications, include the original certificate, or a printed color copy if it was issued electronically.
Translations
If the PCC is not in English or French, you must provide a certified translation.
Unable to Obtain a Police Certificate
If you can’t get a PCC, contact the embassy, consulate, or hire a lawyer in the country. If you’ve made reasonable efforts and cannot obtain the certificate, you can request an exemption or an extension.
Addressing Errors on Police Certificates
If the PCC contains errors or omissions (e.g., dismissed charges), disclose all charges honestly on your application. Failing to do so can lead to serious issues, including a 5-year ban for misrepresentation. It’s advisable to seek professional guidance in such cases.
