Criminal Record Check for Manitoba Security Guard Licensing

Manitoba’s Private Investigators and Security Guards Program, administered under the province’s licensing framework, requires applicants to submit a Criminal Record Check before a security guard or private investigator licence can be issued. This guide covers what the check involves and how to get it done if you’re not near a location that processes them in person.

What Manitoba’s Criminal Record Check Covers

Manitoba’s licensing Criminal Record Check is a name-based search of the CPIC database, covering:

  • Criminal convictions
  • Outstanding charges, where applicable to the request type
  • Certain judicial matters relevant to positions of trust

The exact scope depends on the check type requested at the time of application, so it’s worth confirming with the Private Investigators and Security Guards Program directly whether a standard or enhanced check is required for your licence category.

Fingerprints: Usually Not Required

Like most provincial licensing checks, Manitoba’s Criminal Record Check is typically processed using your name and date of birth rather than fingerprints. Fingerprinting only becomes necessary if there’s a partial match between your details and another record in the database, so your identity can be confirmed before a certificate is issued.

How the Process Works

  1. Confirm your licence category’s requirement with the Private Investigators and Security Guards Program.
  2. Apply by mail or online through an RCMP-accredited provider — you don’t need to be in Manitoba in person for a name-based check.
  3. Submit two pieces of government-issued ID, at least one with your photo.
  4. Receive your certificate, usually within 15 minutes to 48 hours.

Pricing

  • CPIC (name-based) check: $40 + tax
  • CRJMC / enhanced check (covering outstanding charges and judicial matters): $50 + tax

Why Use an RCMP-Accredited Agency Outside Manitoba?

Because this is a national database search rather than a local records check, any RCMP-accredited agency can process your application, regardless of where in Canada you or the agency are located. Surrey Fingerprint Company processes these checks for clients across the country by mail and online. See our full CPIC and CRJMC service details.

Get Started

Contact us to confirm the exact check type your Manitoba licence requires, then apply from wherever you are.

📞 (604) 825-8882 | ✉️ info@surreyfingerprint.com

Criminal Record Check for Alberta Security Guard Licensing

Alberta’s Security Services and Investigators Act requires security guard, private investigator, and alarm response applicants to submit a Criminal Record Check (CRC) as part of their licensing application. Depending on the role, a separate Vulnerable Sector Check may also be required if the work involves contact with children or vulnerable adults.

Criminal Record Check vs. Vulnerable Sector Check

  • Criminal Record Check (CRC): A name-based search of the CPIC database showing convictions and, depending on the request type, outstanding charges and judicial matters.
  • Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC): A more extensive search that also includes certain sexual offence records, even where a pardon or record suspension has been granted — typically only required for roles involving vulnerable populations.

Most Alberta security guard licence applications require the standard Criminal Record Check rather than a Vulnerable Sector Check, but always confirm with your employer or Alberta Justice which one applies to your specific role.

Do I Need to Be Fingerprinted?

Alberta’s standard Criminal Record Check is typically name-based and does not require fingerprints, unless your name and date of birth partially match another individual’s record on file — in which case fingerprints confirm your identity before results are released.

How to Get an Alberta Criminal Record Check Without Traveling to a Local Police Service

Because this is a name-based search of a national database, you don’t need to visit a specific Alberta location in person. An RCMP-accredited agency can process your application by mail or online:

  1. Confirm the exact check type your employer or licensing body requires.
  2. Submit your application with two pieces of valid government-issued ID.
  3. Identity search against the CPIC database.
  4. Receive your certificate, typically within 15 minutes to 48 hours for name-based requests.

Pricing

  • CPIC (name-based) check: $40 + tax
  • CRJMC / enhanced check (covers outstanding charges and judicial matters, similar to what many Alberta licensing bodies expect): $50 + tax

About Surrey Fingerprint Company

We’re an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting and background check agency based in Surrey, BC, processing CPIC and CRJMC-equivalent checks for clients across Canada — not only in British Columbia. Learn more about our CPIC and CRJMC criminal record checks.

Get Started

Contact us to confirm which check your Alberta security licence application requires before you apply.

📞 (604) 825-8882 | ✉️ info@surreyfingerprint.com

Criminal Record Check Without Fingerprints — What It Is and Who Needs One

If you’ve been asked for a criminal record check and are wondering whether you need to be fingerprinted, the short answer is: usually not. Most criminal record checks in Canada — for employment, volunteering, and many licensing purposes — are name-based, meaning they search the national CPIC database using your name, date of birth, and identification, not your fingerprints.

What Is a Name-Based Criminal Record Check?

A name-based check compares your identifying information against records held in the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database. Depending on the type of check requested, it can show:

  • Criminal convictions
  • Outstanding charges and warrants (for enhanced checks)
  • Court orders, peace bonds, and probation conditions (for enhanced checks)
  • Absolute or conditional discharges within their disclosure period

This is different from a fingerprint-based check, which physically confirms your identity using your fingerprints rather than just your name and date of birth.

When Are Fingerprints Actually Required?

Fingerprints become necessary in a few specific situations:

  1. A partial name/DOB match. If your name and date of birth are similar to another individual’s record in the database, fingerprints are the only reliable way to confirm which record actually belongs to you.
  2. Applications from outside Canada. If you previously lived in Canada and now live abroad, a fingerprint-based check is generally required because it’s harder to verify identity remotely without them. Read about our service for applicants living outside Canada.
  3. Specific request types. Some immigration, government security clearance, or first-time BC Security Worker Licence applications specify fingerprint-based checks by default.

For everything else — most employment screening, volunteer positions, and many provincial licensing renewals — a name-based check without fingerprints is what’s actually required, even if the paperwork uses an unfamiliar term.

Why the Terminology Gets Confusing

The same underlying name-based CPIC search goes by different names depending on where you are and who’s asking:

Term Where It’s Used
CPIC check General term, most of Canada
CRJMC (Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check) Ontario security guard/investigator licensing
Police Information Check (PIC) British Columbia
Criminal Record Check (CRC) Alberta, Manitoba, and general use
Police Record Check Various police services

If you’ve been told you need one of these by name, it’s worth confirming with the requesting organization exactly which level of check they mean — a basic conviction search, or the enhanced version that also covers outstanding charges and judicial matters.

How to Get a Name-Based Check

Because no fingerprints are involved in most cases, you don’t need to visit a specific location in person:

  1. Confirm which check type is required (basic or enhanced) with the organization requesting it.
  2. Apply online or by mail with an RCMP-accredited provider, along with two pieces of government-issued ID.
  3. Your details are searched against the CPIC database.
  4. If there’s no match requiring further verification, your certificate is typically ready within 15 minutes to 48 hours.

Pricing

  • Basic CPIC (name-based) check: $40 + tax
  • Enhanced CRJMC-level check: $50 + tax

Surrey Fingerprint Company is an RCMP-accredited agency processing these checks for clients across Canada, not only in British Columbia. See our full CPIC and CRJMC page for details on both check types.

Get Started

Not sure which check you need? Contact us and we’ll help you confirm before you apply.

📞 (604) 825-8882 | ✉️ info@surreyfingerprint.com

CPIC vs. CRJMC: What’s the Difference?

If an employer, licensing body, or organization has asked you for a criminal record check, you may have seen both “CPIC” and “CRJMC” mentioned — sometimes even used as if they mean the same thing. They don’t. Here’s a clear breakdown of what each one actually covers, so you can confirm you’re applying for the right one.

CPIC Check: The Basics

A CPIC check is a name-based search of the Canadian Police Information Centre database. It shows:

  • Criminal convictions
  • Summary convictions (generally disclosed for 5 years)
  • Youth Criminal Justice Act findings, where applicable

This is the standard check used for general employment screening, volunteer positions, and many immigration purposes where only conviction history needs to be confirmed.

Price: $40 + tax

CRJMC Check: The Enhanced Version

A CRJMC (Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check) includes everything a CPIC check shows, plus:

  • Outstanding charges and warrants
  • Peace bonds and probation orders
  • Judicial orders and prohibition orders
  • Absolute and conditional discharges (within their disclosure window)
  • A local police database search

CRJMC is the specific term Ontario uses for the check required in security guard and private investigator licensing. Other provinces require an equivalent enhanced check under different names — British Columbia’s Police Information Check and Alberta or Manitoba’s Criminal Record Check for licensing purposes generally cover similar ground.

Price: $50 + tax

Side-by-Side Comparison

CPIC Check CRJMC Check
Convictions ✓ ✓
Outstanding charges ✗ ✓
Warrants ✗ ✓
Peace bonds / probation ✗ ✓
Judicial orders ✗ ✓
Typical use General employment, immigration Security guard/investigator licensing, positions of trust
Price $40 + tax $50 + tax

Which One Do I Need?

The requesting organization decides this, not you — so the safest approach is to ask them directly whether they need a “CPIC” or a “CRJMC” (or its provincial equivalent). Common patterns:

  • General employment or volunteering: usually a basic CPIC check.
  • Security guard or private investigator licensing: almost always the enhanced CRJMC-level check.
  • Immigration or citizenship applications: check the specific instructions in your application letter, as requirements vary by application type.

Applying for the wrong level of check can mean delays and having to reapply, so confirming first saves time.

Do Either Require Fingerprints?

Generally, no. Both CPIC and CRJMC checks are name-based, using your name, date of birth, and ID to search the database — this is sometimes called a “criminal record check without fingerprints.” Fingerprints are only required if your details partially match another individual’s record, so your identity can be confirmed.

Get Started

Surrey Fingerprint Company is an RCMP-accredited agency processing both CPIC and CRJMC checks for clients across Canada, by mail, online, or in person in Surrey, BC. See full details on our CPIC and CRJMC page.

📞 (604) 825-8882 | ✉️ info@surreyfingerprint.com

Ontario security guard background check online — What You Need to Know

If you’re applying for or renewing a security guard licence or private investigator licence in Ontario, you’ve likely come across the term CRJMC — the Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check. Since February 2024, Ontario’s Ministry of the Solicitor General has required this enhanced check for security guard and private investigator licensing, and since July 2024 applicants have been able to get it through approved third-party providers rather than only through police services.

This guide explains what a CRJMC actually checks, how it’s different from a standard criminal record check, and how to get one processed even if you don’t live near a location that offers it.

What Is a CRJMC?

A CRJMC is a more thorough version of a standard name-based criminal record check. Where a basic CPIC check shows only convictions, a CRJMC also discloses:

  • Outstanding charges and warrants
  • Peace bonds and probation orders
  • Judicial orders and prohibition orders
  • Absolute and conditional discharges (within their disclosure period)

Ontario requires this enhanced level of screening for security guard and investigator applicants because these are positions of trust that may involve access to private property, vulnerable people, or sensitive information.

Do I Need Fingerprints for a CRJMC?

In most cases, no. A CRJMC is a name-based check — sometimes described as a “criminal record check without fingerprints” — that matches your name, date of birth, and identification details against the national CPIC database. Fingerprints are only required if your name and date of birth closely match another individual’s record, so your identity needs to be confirmed before results can be issued.

How to Get a CRJMC If You’re Not Near a Testing Location

You don’t need to be physically present at a police station to get a CRJMC. Because the check is name-based, RCMP-accredited fingerprinting and background check agencies — including agencies outside Ontario — can process your application by mail or online, provided your licensing body accepts a third-party-issued certificate.

The typical process looks like this:

  1. Confirm the requirement. Check with the Ontario licensing authority (or your employer) that a CRJMC, specifically, is what’s required — not a standard CPIC check.
  2. Apply online or by mail. Submit your application along with two pieces of government-issued ID, at least one with your photo.
  3. Identity verification. Your name and date of birth are searched against the CPIC database. If there’s a partial match to another record, fingerprints will be requested to confirm your identity.
  4. Receive your certificate. Most name-based checks are completed within 15 minutes to 48 hours, and the certificate is delivered digitally.

Looking for an Alternative to Your Current Provider?

If you’ve previously used an online CRJMC provider such for Ontario security licensing and are looking at other RCMP-accredited options, Surrey Fingerprint Company processes both CPIC ($40 + tax) and CRJMC ($50 + tax) checks the same way — by mail or online, for clients across Canada, not only in British Columbia. Before applying, confirm with your Ontario licensing body that a certificate from an out-of-province provider will be accepted for your specific application.

How Long Is a CRJMC Valid?

For Ontario security guard and investigator licence applications, a CRJMC typically needs to be dated within 6 months of your application. Always confirm the exact requirement with the Ministry or your employer, as this can change.

Get Started

Contact Surrey Fingerprint Company to confirm your CRJMC requirements and start your application. Learn more about our CPIC and CRJMC criminal record checks, available across Canada.

📞 (604) 825-8882 | ✉️ info@surreyfingerprint.com

🟢 Now Hiring

Fingerprint Technician Required in Surrey, BC — Join Surrey Fingerprint Company

📅 Posted: July 1, 2025 📍 Surrey, BC 📆 Full-Time / Part-Time 💳 $18–$24/hr

📥 Ready to Apply?

Email your resume directly to us — we respond to every application within 48 hours.

📧 Email Your Resume Now
🏢

Location

112-8232 120 Street
Surrey, BC V3W 3N4

📅

Employment Type

Full-Time or Part-Time
Permanent Position

💳

Compensation

$18–$24 per hour
Based on experience

🕐

Hours

Mon–Sat, 9 AM–8 PM
Flexible scheduling

🎓

Experience

Not required
Full training provided

📧

How to Apply

Email resume to:
info@surreyfingerprint.com

Surrey Fingerprint Company — one of Surrey's busiest and most trusted RCMP accredited fingerprinting agencies — is looking for a dedicated, detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Fingerprint Technician. This is a rare opportunity to build a specialized, in-demand career in a growing field that sits at the intersection of law enforcement, immigration, and public service. No prior fingerprinting experience is needed — we provide comprehensive training and full RCMP certification support.

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About Surrey Fingerprint Company

Surrey Fingerprint Company is an RCMP accredited fingerprinting agency serving thousands of clients every year from across the Lower Mainland and internationally. We provide digital and ink fingerprinting for immigration (IRCC), police clearance certificates, employment background checks, security clearances, vulnerable sector checks, US Entry Waivers, refugee sponsorship, and more. Our office at 112-8232 120 Street, Surrey serves clients from Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, Burnaby, Richmond, and beyond. We are a tight-knit, professional team committed to accuracy, privacy, and exceptional client service.

What Does a Fingerprint Technician Do?

A Fingerprint Technician at Surrey Fingerprint Company is the face of our business. You are the professional who meets clients at what is often a significant moment in their lives — the day they start the process of immigrating to Canada, applying for a job they have worked hard for, or clearing a path to a new chapter. Your role combines technical precision, regulatory knowledge, and genuine human care.

Here is what a typical day looks like:

9:00 AM

Open the office and prepare equipment

Power up the LiveScan fingerprint scanner and verify the system is connected to the RCMP CCRTIS network. Review appointments booked for the day and pull up any pre-filled client information.

9:30 AM

Greet first clients — verify identity

Welcome clients warmly, review their ID documents (passport, driver's licence, PR card), confirm they have the correct form if required (IRCC letter, SL002, BSF644, PQ80800 form, etc.), and explain the process clearly so they feel at ease.

9:45 AM

Capture digital fingerprints

Using our professional LiveScan device, capture all ten rolled fingerprints and flat impressions. The system flags any poor-quality captures immediately — you re-roll the affected finger until a quality capture is confirmed. For ink and roll clients (FBI cards, international submissions), apply ink carefully and roll prints onto the physical card.

10:00 AM

Submit to RCMP and provide receipts

Enter the correct ORI number from the client's form into the system, complete the submission to the RCMP CCRTIS, and print the SRE transaction receipt confirming submission. If the client needs a DCN number, record it on their form. Collect payment and issue a receipt.

All day

Answer phone and email inquiries

Answer calls from clients asking which form they need, what ID to bring, how long processing takes, whether we can do FBI fingerprinting, or how to get their results. You become a trusted source of information about a process most people have never done before.You will hadle other general office calls also unrelated to fingerprinting.

Ongoing

Handle walk-ins alongside booked appointments

Surrey Fingerprint Company welcomes walk-ins throughout the day. You manage the flow of booked and walk-in clients, keep wait times reasonable, and maintain a calm, professional atmosphere even on busy days.

End of day

Reconcile records and secure the office

Ensure all submissions have been confirmed by the RCMP system, file any physical documents securely, reconcile daily payments, and power down equipment following security protocols.

Key Responsibilities

  • Capture digital fingerprints using LiveScan equipment — all ten rolled and flat impressions, verifying quality before submission
  • Perform ink and roll fingerprinting on physical cards (C-216C, FBI FD-258, FBI FD-1164) for international submissions
  • Verify client identity against government-issued photo ID in accordance with RCMP accreditation requirements
  • Identify the correct ORI number and form type for each client — IRCC, PQ80800, SL002 (BC Security), BSF644 (CBSA), and others
  • Submit fingerprints electronically to the RCMP CCRTIS and provide clients with transaction receipts and DCN numbers
  • Complete government forms accurately — including the fingerprint officer section of application forms
  • Handle client inquiries by phone, email, and in person — explaining processes, requirements, and timelines clearly
  • Maintain client records securely and in compliance with RCMP privacy and data protection requirements
  • Process payments and maintain accurate daily transaction records
  • Keep up to date on changes to IRCC, RCMP, and other government agency fingerprinting requirements
  • Additional dutiesrelated / unrelated to Fingerprinting tasks can be added later( such as , speaking of IELTS/PTE candidates, etc

Requirements — Who We Are Looking For

✅ Must Have

  • Clean criminal record — you will undergo a background check as part of RCMP accreditation requirements
  • Strong attention to detail — fingerprinting is precision work where accuracy is non-negotiable
  • Excellent communication skills — clients include people from all backgrounds, many for whom English is a second language
  • Basic computer proficiency — data entry, email, printing, and navigating Windows-based software
  • Professional and calm demeanor — clients are often nervous or in time-sensitive situations
  • Ability to work independently and take responsibility for your work
  • Legal authorization to work in Canada

⭐ Strong Assets

  • Previous customer service experience in any field — retail, hospitality, healthcare, admin
  • Experience in an immigration services, notary, legal, or government services environment
  • Fluency in Punjabi, Hindi, Tagalog, Mandarin, Korean, Arabic, or other languages common in the Surrey community
  • Familiarity with IRCC immigration processes, Canadian government agencies, or police services
  • Prior experience as a fingerprint technician, military, law enforcement, or security professional
  • Knowledge of BC Security licensing, record suspension, or immigration background check requirements
🎓 Full Training Provided — No Experience Required

You do not need prior fingerprinting experience to apply. Surrey Fingerprint Company provides comprehensive on-the-job training covering LiveScan operation, RCMP submission procedures, ORI number identification, form completion, privacy requirements, and client handling. We support you through the RCMP accreditation process. What we cannot train is character — we are looking for someone honest, careful, and genuinely interested in helping people.

What You Will Learn and Become

Fingerprint technicians at RCMP accredited agencies develop a specialized skill set that is in growing demand across Canada. As a qualified fingerprint technician at Surrey Fingerprint Company, you will become proficient in:

  • LiveScan digital fingerprinting technology — the same professional equipment used by police services and government agencies across Canada
  • RCMP CCRTIS submission system — direct connection to Canada's National Repository of Criminal Records
  • Ink and roll fingerprinting technique — the manual method required for FBI submissions, international card scans, and some older processes
  • Canadian government fingerprinting forms and ORI numbers — IRCC, PQ80800, SL002, BSF644, and others used by dozens of agencies
  • Privacy and data protection — RCMP accreditation standards for handling sensitive personal information
  • Immigration and background check processes — you will become a knowledgeable resource for clients navigating complex government processes
📈 A Growing Industry

Demand for RCMP accredited fingerprinting services is growing steadily. Immigration to Canada continues at record levels, federal security clearance requirements are expanding, and BC's security industry licensing requirements are increasingly enforced. Fingerprint technicians with RCMP system access are valued professionals — your skills will be in demand in Surrey and across Canada for years to come.

Why Work at Surrey Fingerprint Company?

🎓

Fully Paid Training

Complete on-the-job training from day one. No courses to pay for, no self-study on your own time.

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Flexible Hours

Full-time and part-time positions available. Schedules built around the right candidate — mornings, evenings, or Saturdays.

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Central Surrey Location

Easily accessible office near Newton and Guildford with free parking. Close to major transit routes.

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Supportive Team

Small, professional team where your contributions are noticed and valued. Not a number — a person.

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Meaningful Work

Every client you serve is working toward something important — immigration, a new job, a fresh start. Your accuracy matters to real people.

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Career Development

Build expertise in a specialized, growing field. Many technicians advance to senior roles or bring skills to law enforcement and government careers.

What Our Clients Say About Working With Us

Surrey Fingerprint Company has built its reputation on accuracy, speed, and genuine client care. Our team processes hundreds of clients every month from across Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, Burnaby, and beyond — covering immigration fingerprinting, security licensing, Canada Post, government contracts, record suspensions, US Entry Waivers, and refugee sponsorship. The technicians on our team are trusted by those clients at important moments in their lives. Joining our team means becoming part of that trusted reputation.

🌐 Surrey's Diverse Community is Our Strength

Surrey is one of Canada's most multicultural cities — and our client base reflects that. We serve clients speaking Punjabi, Hindi, Tagalog, Mandarin, Korean, Farsi, Arabic, Spanish, and dozens of other languages. Candidates who speak languages other than English are strongly encouraged to apply — your language skills are a genuine asset that makes a real difference to the clients we serve.

📥 Apply Now — We Want to Hear From You

If you are detail-oriented, enjoy helping people, and want to build a career in a specialized and growing field — we would love to meet you. Send us your resume and a brief note about why you are interested in this role.

Email your resume to: info@surreyfingerprint.com

Please use the subject line: Application — Fingerprint Technician

📄 What to include in your email:
  • Your current resume (PDF preferred)
  • A brief note (3–5 sentences) about yourself and why this role interests you
  • Any languages you speak fluently other than English
  • Your preferred schedule (full-time / part-time / days / evenings)

We respond to every application within 48 hours. All applications are reviewed by the hiring manager — not an automated system. We look forward to hearing from you.

📍
Surrey Fingerprint Company — RCMP Accredited
112 - 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4
(604) 825-8882  ·  info@surreyfingerprint.com
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–8:00 PM
🌍 Refugee Sponsorship

Fingerprinting for Refugee Sponsorship in Canada — A Complete Guide for Sponsors in Surrey, BC

📅 July 1, 2025 ✍️ Surrey Fingerprint Company ⏱️ 8 min read 📍 Surrey, BC

Surrey and the Greater Vancouver area are home to some of the most active refugee sponsorship communities in Canada. Churches, mosques, temples, cultural organizations, and groups of neighbours regularly come together to privately sponsor refugees fleeing conflict and persecution. If you are part of a sponsorship group — whether a Group of Five, a Community Sponsor, or a Constituent Group under a Sponsorship Agreement Holder — every sponsoring individual must provide a criminal record check as part of the IRCC application. This guide explains exactly what is required, why it matters, and why Surrey Fingerprint Company has become the trusted choice for refugee sponsorship groups across the Lower Mainland.

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Surrey's Most Trusted Partner for Refugee Sponsorship Criminal Record Checks

Surrey Fingerprint Company has helped hundreds of refugee sponsorship groups in Surrey, Langley, Delta, White Rock, and Burnaby get their criminal record checks done accurately and on time. We understand the urgency — a delayed or rejected criminal record check can set back a sponsorship application by months, leaving a refugee family in limbo. Our RCMP accredited fingerprinting provides the most reliable, identity-verified criminal record checks available, completed in one appointment with results returned within days.

Monday–Saturday 9 AM–8 PM  ·  Walk-ins welcome  ·  Groups processed together
(604) 825-8882  ·  112-8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC

Why Criminal Record Checks Are Required for Refugee Sponsorship

Canada's Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) program is one of the most generous in the world — private citizens can literally bring a refugee family from overseas and commit to supporting them financially and emotionally for a full year. With that extraordinary privilege comes responsibility and accountability. IRCC requires criminal record checks for all private sponsors because:

  • Refugees are among the world's most vulnerable people. They have fled war, persecution, and trauma. Canada's government must ensure they are being resettled into the care of trustworthy, law-abiding sponsors who will genuinely support them.
  • Sponsors make a legal undertaking. By signing the sponsorship forms, you are making a binding legal commitment to financially support the refugee family for one year. IRCC verifies your integrity before accepting that commitment.
  • The funds cannot come from the refugees themselves. The Privately Sponsored Refugee program is a humanitarian program which assists vulnerable people in need. The undertaking states that you, the sponsor, have not accepted funds from the refugee(s) you are sponsoring and will not require them to repay any cost of sponsorship. Criminal checks help verify the integrity of this commitment.
  • IRCC processes applications in two stages. ROC-O (Resettlement Operations Centre Ottawa) reviews all required application forms and documents. If any required documents are missing or incomplete, the application may be returned. A missing or expired criminal record check is one of the most common reasons applications are returned.

The Four Types of Private Refugee Sponsors — Who Needs a Check?

Criminal Check Required

👥 Group of Five (G5)

Five or more Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are at least 18 years of age, live in the expected community of settlement and have collectively arranged for the sponsorship of a refugee living abroad. Every individual member of the group must submit their own criminal record check — not just the group leader.

Criminal Check Required

🏢 Community Sponsor (CS)

An organization, association, or corporation sponsoring a refugee. The Signing Authority for the CS and individual co-sponsor (if applicable) must submit a copy of a criminal record check (non-vulnerable sector check). The organization itself does not need a check — the signing individuals do.

Criminal Check Required

⛪ SAH Constituent Groups (CG)

Groups that sponsor refugees under the umbrella of a Sponsorship Agreement Holder. The SAH sets its own requirements for constituent groups, but most require criminal record checks for all volunteers who will have direct contact with the sponsored refugee family.

Check May Be Required

🤝 Individual Co-Sponsors

Individuals who join a sponsorship as co-sponsors alongside a community organization. Individual co-sponsors must submit a copy of a criminal record check (non-vulnerable sector check). If you are named on the sponsorship forms as a co-sponsor, you need a check regardless of your role.

📋 Important — What "Non-Vulnerable Sector Check" Means

IRCC specifies a non-vulnerable sector check — meaning a standard criminal record check, not a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). A VSC is a different, more extensive check required for positions working with children or vulnerable populations. For refugee sponsorship, you need the standard criminal record check only. Surrey Fingerprint Company provides both types — just let us know you need the standard check for refugee sponsorship purposes.

The 6-Month Rule — Timing Is Everything

This is the single most important detail that sponsorship groups get wrong. Submit for each sponsor a copy of a criminal record check (non-vulnerable sector check), issued within 6 months of the application submission to ROC-O.

This means your criminal record check must be no older than 6 months at the time IRCC's Resettlement Operations Centre Ottawa (ROC-O) receives your complete application package — not the date you start preparing it, not the date you mail it. If you get your check done too early and then your group takes several months to assemble the rest of the application, your check may be expired by the time it arrives in Ottawa.

⚠️ Coordinate Timing Across All Group Members

With a Group of Five, all five members need valid checks simultaneously — within 6 months of application submission. If one member gets their check done 2 months before the others, and the application takes another 5 months to assemble, that first member's check may be just outside the 6-month window. The safest approach: have all group members get fingerprinted on the same day or within the same week, close to when you plan to submit the application. Surrey Fingerprint Company can process your entire group in a single visit.

Fingerprint-Based vs Name-Based — Which Is Better for Your Sponsorship?

IRCC's guidance for refugee sponsorship states that a standard criminal record check is required — and does not specifically mandate fingerprints. A name-based CPIC check can technically satisfy the requirement. However, there are compelling reasons why a fingerprint-based RCMP criminal record check is the superior choice for your sponsorship application:

Factor Name-Based Check Fingerprint-Based Check (Surrey Fingerprint Co.)
Identity certainty Searches by name and DOB — could miss records under different spelling or previous name ✅ Tied definitively to your unique fingerprints — no identity ambiguity
Record completeness May miss records from other provinces or hybrid offences ✅ Full national search through RCMP CCRTIS database
IRCC confidence IRCC may request additional verification if names are common ✅ Fingerprint results accepted without question
Processing time Hours to 1 business day (name only) 3–5 business days (most clean records)
Risk of application return Higher — IRCC may flag name matches for clarification ✅ Lower — definitive result requires no clarification
Where to get it Local police or online services Surrey Fingerprint Company — RCMP accredited

For a sponsorship application that may take months to prepare and represents a life-changing opportunity for a refugee family, the extra 3–5 days for a fingerprint-based check is worth every minute.

What Happens if a Sponsor Has a Criminal Record?

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify someone from being a refugee sponsor. IRCC does not publish a specific list of disqualifying offences for the private sponsorship program. The assessment is holistic — looking at the nature of the conviction, its relevance to the responsibilities of sponsorship, and the time elapsed since the offence.

If any of the sponsors have previous criminal convictions, submit copies of applicable court documents which show the disposition of the charges. This means you must include court records showing how the case was resolved — guilty plea, conviction at trial, sentence imposed, and any subsequent conditions or record suspension.

Offences that involve dishonesty, financial fraud, violence, or exploitation of vulnerable people are more likely to raise concerns in the context of refugee sponsorship. Minor or old offences are generally treated with more leniency. If you are unsure whether your record affects your eligibility, consult an immigration lawyer before submitting your application.

✅ Record Suspension (Pardon) Helps

If a sponsoring individual has a record suspension (formerly pardon), their conviction is sealed from standard criminal record checks and will not appear on the check submitted with the sponsorship application. If you are considering sponsoring a refugee and have an old conviction, obtaining a record suspension first may strengthen your application. Surrey Fingerprint Company provides fingerprinting for record suspension applications — the first step in the pardon process.

Step-by-Step: Getting Your Group's Criminal Record Checks Done

1

Confirm who needs a check in your group

For a Group of Five — every member. For a Community Sponsor — the Signing Authority and any individual co-sponsors named on the forms. For a SAH Constituent Group — follow your SAH's specific requirements, which may include all volunteers with direct refugee contact. Check your application guide (IMM 2200 for G5, or the CS guide) for the exact list of who must submit.

2

Plan your timeline around the 6-month rule

Estimate your application submission date to ROC-O. Count back 6 months — that is the earliest your checks can be dated. Ideally, get fingerprinted 4 to 8 weeks before your planned submission date to allow time for RCMP processing (3–5 business days for clean records) and assembly of your full application package.

3

Come to Surrey Fingerprint Company — bring all group members together

Walk in to 112-8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC any time Monday to Saturday 9 AM–8 PM. Bring two pieces of government-issued ID (at least one with your photo — passport, driver's licence, or PR card). All group members can be processed sequentially in one visit. Each person's fingerprints are submitted to the RCMP the same day.

4

RCMP processes results — 3 to 5 business days

Electronic fingerprints are submitted to the RCMP CCRTIS the same day. For clean records, the RCMP returns your certified criminal record check within 3 to 5 business days. For records requiring manual review, processing can take longer — plan extra time if any group member has a prior conviction.

5

Include checks with your ROC-O application package

Make a clear copy of each criminal record check certificate for inclusion in your sponsorship application. Documents which are not specific to the case, such as a criminal record check, must be copied and included in each application. If you are submitting applications for multiple refugee families simultaneously, include a copy in each application package.

6

Submit your complete application to ROC-O or through the IRCC portal

IRCC has expanded the Permanent Residence Portal to private refugee sponsor groups, giving sponsors a more convenient, secure and efficient way to submit their applications. Online submissions provide immediate confirmation and prevent most incomplete applications from being submitted. Both online portal submission and mail submission to ROC-O are currently accepted.

Surrey's Refugee Sponsorship Community — Who We Help

Surrey and the Greater Vancouver area are home to one of Canada's most vibrant and compassionate refugee sponsorship communities. Surrey Fingerprint Company is proud to serve the full range of organizations and groups that work tirelessly to welcome refugees to BC:

Organizations We Regularly Serve for Refugee Sponsorship Checks

⛪

Churches and Faith Communities

Surrey's churches, mosques, temples, and gurdwaras regularly sponsor refugee families as Constituent Groups under Sponsorship Agreement Holders

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Family and Friend Networks

Groups of Five formed by friends, neighbours, and extended family members sponsoring a specific refugee family known to the group

🌍

Cultural and Ethnic Organizations

Community associations serving Afghan, Syrian, Somali, South Asian, and other diaspora communities actively sponsoring refugees from their home countries

🏫

School and Workplace Groups

Colleagues at workplaces and school parent communities forming Groups of Five to sponsor individual refugee cases they have learned about through networks

🤲

Humanitarian Organizations

Registered charities and non-profit organizations operating as Community Sponsors or Constituent Groups with full-time settlement support capacity

🏛️

Sponsorship Agreement Holders

Established SAH organizations and their authorized Constituent Groups who sponsor multiple refugee families per year under their IRCC agreement

Why Surrey Fingerprint Company Is the Right Choice for Your Sponsorship Group

🎯

We Know Refugee Sponsorship

We have processed criminal record checks for dozens of refugee sponsorship groups in Surrey and the Lower Mainland. We understand the 6-month rule, what IRCC needs, and how to make the process smooth for everyone in your group.

👥

Groups Welcome — All at Once

Bring your entire Group of Five (or more) in one visit. We process all members sequentially and efficiently. No need for five separate appointments on five separate days.

⚡

Same-Day RCMP Submission

Every fingerprint is submitted to the RCMP electronically on the day of your appointment. Most clean records return within 3 business days — keeping your application timeline on track.

🕗

Evening and Saturday Hours

Open until 8 PM Monday to Friday and all day Saturday. Group members with day jobs can come after work or on weekends without taking time off.

🏅

RCMP Accredited

Our fingerprint-based RCMP criminal record checks are identity-verified and definitive — the gold standard for any immigration-related background check.

🌐

Multilingual Community

Our Surrey location serves one of Canada's most diverse communities. We welcome clients from all backgrounds and work with sponsorship groups from all faith and cultural traditions.

2025 Updates — What's Changed for Private Refugee Sponsorship

The private refugee sponsorship landscape has seen several important changes in 2025 that all sponsorship groups should be aware of:

  • Sudan refugee pathway open until December 2025: Starting April 30, 2025, Groups of Five and Community Sponsors can apply to sponsor Sudanese refugees through IRCC's online portal. A refugee status determination document is not required for this pathway. The cap is 160 applications — first come, first served.
  • Online portal now available for all G5 and CS groups: IRCC has expanded the Permanent Residence Portal to private refugee sponsor groups, giving sponsors immediate confirmation of successful submission and preventing most incomplete applications from being submitted. This is a significant improvement over the previous email/mail submission process.
  • No new SAH intake for 2026: IRCC has announced there will not be a 2026 application intake for new Sponsorship Agreement Holders. Updates about future intakes will be posted when available. Organizations wishing to sponsor refugees without a SAH agreement should apply as a Community Sponsor or Group of Five.
  • All sponsors must sign forms within 90 days: All members must sign within 90 days of submission. Coordinate your group carefully — getting all criminal record checks and form signatures completed within this window is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all members of a Group of Five need a criminal record check?+
Submit for each sponsor a copy of a criminal record check (non-vulnerable sector check), issued within 6 months of the application submission to ROC-O. Yes — every individual member of the Group of Five must submit their own separate criminal record check. There are no exceptions, and a group leader cannot submit a single check on behalf of the group.
Do refugee sponsors need fingerprint-based or name-based checks?+
IRCC specifies a standard non-vulnerable sector criminal record check — both name-based and fingerprint-based checks technically satisfy this requirement. However, a fingerprint-based RCMP check is identity-verified, more comprehensive, and significantly reduces the risk of IRCC requesting additional clarification. For an application as important as refugee sponsorship, Surrey Fingerprint Company strongly recommends the fingerprint-based approach.
How recent must the criminal record check be?+
The criminal record check must be issued within 6 months of the application submission date to ROC-O. This means the date on your RCMP certificate must be no more than 6 months before the date ROC-O receives your complete application. Do not get your check done too early — coordinate timing with all group members and your planned submission date.
What if one of our group members has a criminal record?+
If any of the sponsors have previous criminal convictions, submit copies of applicable court documents which show the disposition of the charges. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify a sponsor. IRCC assesses the group holistically, considering the nature of the offence and the time elapsed. If a member has an old or minor conviction, include court documents showing how the case was resolved. If the conviction is serious and recent, consult an immigration lawyer.
Our church is sponsoring a family as a Constituent Group — do we need checks?+
Requirements for SAH Constituent Groups are set by the Sponsorship Agreement Holder, not directly by IRCC. Most SAHs require criminal record checks for all individuals who will have direct contact with the sponsored refugee family — including group leaders, volunteers in a coordination role, and anyone hosting the family. Check with your SAH for their specific requirements. Surrey Fingerprint Company is familiar with the requirements of major SAHs operating in BC.
Can our whole Group of Five come together for fingerprinting?+
Yes — and we strongly encourage it. Surrey Fingerprint Company processes multiple Group of Five members in the same visit. All members come together, each is processed sequentially (about 15–20 minutes per person), and all fingerprints are submitted to the RCMP the same day. Everyone's results come back within the same timeframe, making it much easier to assemble your application package. Call (604) 825-8882 to let us know your group size so we can ensure smooth scheduling.
We are sponsoring multiple refugee families — do we need a new check for each?+
Documents which are not specific to the case, such as a criminal record check, must be copied and included in each application. If you are submitting multiple sponsorship applications simultaneously and all applications are submitted within the same 6-month period from your check date, you can include copies of the same criminal record check in each application package. You do not need separate fingerprinting for each family you are sponsoring — as long as the checks remain within the 6-month validity window.

Ready to Support a Refugee Family? Start With Your Criminal Record Check

Surrey Fingerprint Company is the Lower Mainland's most trusted partner for refugee sponsorship criminal record checks. We process individual sponsors and full Groups of Five in one visit, with results returned from the RCMP within days. Bring your group in any time Monday to Saturday — we will make sure your checks are done right and on time, so your sponsorship application moves forward without delays.

📍

Surrey Fingerprint Company — RCMP Accredited · Refugee Sponsorship Specialists

112 - 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4  ·  (604) 825-8882  ·  info@surreyfingerprint.com
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–8:00 PM  ·  Sunday: By Appointment  ·  Walk-ins Always Welcome
Serving Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, Burnaby, Richmond & all of BC

💻 Online Service

Fast & Secure Online Criminal Record Checks (CPIC / CRJMC)

📅 July 18, 2026 ✍️ Surrey Fingerprint Company ⏱️ 3 min read 📁 Background Checks

When you need an official criminal record check for employment, volunteer work, or personal reasons, you need a process that is as efficient as possible. At Surrey Fingerprint Company, we offer a streamlined online criminal record check designed to get you your results quickly without the need to ever visit an office.

✅ Flat Fee of $50

We provide this essential name and date of birth based background check service for a straightforward, flat fee of just $50. Complete everything from the comfort of your home.

What is an Online Criminal Record Check?

This type of check is often referred to as a CPIC (Canadian Police Information Centre) check or a CRJMC (Criminal Record Check).

Unlike traditional background checks, this is a non-fingerprint-based search. It is processed by verifying your identity using your full legal name and date of birth against the national police database. Because it does not require physical or digital fingerprint impressions, it is the fastest way to obtain a background check for situations that do not strictly mandate a biometric certificate.

Why Choose Our Online CPIC/CRJMC Service?

🚀 Benefits of Online Processing

  • Ultimate Convenience: Complete your entire application from your home or office on any device.
  • Fast Turnaround: By handling your request digitally, we minimize processing time to get your official report back to you promptly.
  • Highly Affordable: At just $50, it is an economical solution for professional and volunteer requirements.
  • Secure & Reliable: As an experienced, RCMP-accredited agency, your sensitive data is handled with the highest security protocols throughout the entire process.

How to Get Started in 4 Simple Steps

1

Visit Our Secure Portal

Click the link below to access our secure online booking and application website.

2

Enter Your Details

Provide your accurate, full legal name and date of birth exactly as they appear on your government ID.

3

Complete Payment

Pay the flat $50 processing fee via our secure online checkout system.

4

Receive Your Report

Once the database search is complete, you will receive your official RCMP database report, ready to be provided to your employer or organization.

⚠️ Note on Vulnerable Sector Checks: Please be aware that if you are working with children or vulnerable adults, your employer may require a Vulnerable Sector Check. Those must typically be completed by your local police detachment. If a fingerprint requirement is triggered, we can assist with the biometric portion at our Surrey office.

Ready to Get Your Background Check?

Skip the waiting room. Enter your details online and get your CPIC / CRJMC processed securely today for just $50.

📞 +1 (604) 825-8882  ·  ✉️ info@surreyfingerprint.com

🏢

Surrey Fingerprint Company

112 - 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4, Canada
+1 (604) 825-8882 · info@surreyfingerprint.com
Office: Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–8:00 PM PT

🇺🇬 Uganda

Do You Need a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from Uganda?

📅 July 1, 2025 ✍️ Surrey Fingerprint Company ⏱️ 5 min read 🌐 International Clients — Uganda

If you are living in Uganda and have previously lived, worked, or studied in Canada, you may need a Canadian RCMP Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) or a Canadian Criminal Record Check. This guide explains exactly who needs one, why, and the complete step-by-step process for getting it done from Uganda — without travelling to Canada.

✅ RCMP Accredited Card Scan Service Available for Uganda

Surrey Fingerprint Company accepts ink fingerprint cards mailed from Uganda, digitizes them professionally, and submits them electronically to the RCMP on your behalf. Email us at info@surreyfingerprint.com to get started — we will send you the correct form and a complete checklist.

Why Would Someone in Uganda Need a Canadian RCMP PCC?

A Canadian RCMP Police Clearance Certificate is an official document showing your Canadian criminal record — or confirming that no record exists. It is required in several situations:

  • Canadian Immigration (IRCC): If you are applying for Canadian Permanent Residency, citizenship, or certain work or study visas and have previously lived in Canada, IRCC requires an RCMP PCC as part of your application.
  • Immigration to a third country: If you are immigrating to Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or other countries and have a history of living in Canada, those countries require a Canadian police clearance as part of their character check requirements.
  • Employment background checks: Many regulated industries — healthcare, education, finance, government, and security — require a Canadian background check if you have worked or lived in Canada.
  • Visa applications: Some countries require a police clearance from every country you have lived in for 6 months or more in the past 10 years.

Specific to Uganda: Many Ugandans who have studied or worked in Canada eventually need an RCMP PCC for Canadian PR applications (IRCC requirement), pursuing further international education, or applying for employment in regulated sectors both locally and abroad.

How the RCMP Card Scan Process Works from Uganda

Because electronic fingerprint submission to the RCMP is only available from within Canada, people outside Canada must use the card scan method — you have your ink fingerprints taken in Uganda, mail the original card to an RCMP accredited agency in Canada, and they submit it electronically to the RCMP on your behalf.

1

Contact us first

Email info@surreyfingerprint.com before getting fingerprinted. We will send you the RCMP C-216C fingerprint form, a complete checklist, and our current pricing. This ensures your fingerprints are taken correctly the first time.

2

Get your fingerprints taken in Uganda

Visit: Directorate of INTERPOL and International Relations in Kololo, Kampala (Mabua Road) or a designated police fingerprinting unit. Bring: Ugandan passport or national ID. Ask for ink fingerprinting on the RCMP C-216C form for Canadian government submission. The officer must stamp with their official seal and sign the card.

3

Mail the original card to us in Canada

Use a tracked courier: DHL Uganda, FedEx, or Aramex. Mail to: Surrey Fingerprint Company, 112 - 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4, Canada. Always include tracking — do not send original documents by untracked regular post.

4

We digitize and submit to the RCMP

The same day or next business day we receive your card, we scan it on professional equipment, verify quality, and submit electronically to the RCMP's CCRTIS database. We email you a confirmation and transaction reference number.

5

RCMP processes and mails your certificate

If no criminal record is found, the RCMP typically issues the certificate within 3 business days and mails it to your address. The certificate can be mailed to your address in Uganda, or to your immigration consultant, lawyer, or embassy on your behalf.

Getting Your Fingerprints Taken in Uganda

Visit the Directorate of INTERPOL and International Relations in Kololo, Kampala, and request ink fingerprinting for a Canadian government (RCMP) background check. Bring your passport and national ID. Request fingerprinting on the RCMP C-216C form. The officer must stamp the card with the official Uganda Police Force or Interpol seal and sign it.

💡 Courier Tip for Uganda

DHL and FedEx are the most reliable options from Kampala for sending documents securely to Canada. Aramex and EMS (Posta Uganda Premium) also offer tracked international mail.

⚠️ Important: The RCMP requires original ink fingerprint cards — scanned copies, photos, or photocopies are not accepted and cannot be processed. You must mail the physical card with original ink impressions. Never send a copy.

What to Send Us — Complete Checklist

📦 Mail This Package to Surrey Fingerprint Company

  • Original ink fingerprint card — completed, signed by you, and officially stamped and signed by the fingerprinting officer
  • Clear photocopy of your passport (photo page) — showing your full legal name and date of birth
  • Completed applicant information form — your full legal name, date of birth, sex, reason for the check, and return mailing address (we provide this form)
  • IRCC letter or requesting agency letter (if applicable) — include a copy if your request is for a Canadian immigration application
  • Payment confirmation — credit card authorization or proof of bank transfer (contact us for current pricing)
  • Your return address and delivery preference — where you want the RCMP certificate mailed after processing

Critical Rules — Avoid Rejection

  • Black ink only — no blue, red, or other colours
  • All ten fingers rolled individually from nail edge to nail edge — partial impressions are rejected
  • Flat impressions required — four fingers flat together for each hand, and both thumbs in the designated boxes
  • All personal information fields must be completed — cards with blank required fields are returned unprocessed
  • Official stamp and signature required — the fingerprinting officer must stamp with their agency's official seal and sign the card
  • Do not sign the card before your appointment — your signature must be witnessed by the official
  • Do not photocopy the card after fingerprinting — only original cards with original ink are accepted

Frequently Asked Questions — Canadian PCC from Uganda

Do I need a Canadian RCMP PCC if I only lived in Canada briefly?+
IRCC typically requires an RCMP PCC for anyone who has lived in Canada for 6 months or more at any time. Some other countries (Australia, UK, NZ) may require it for even shorter stays. Check the specific requirements of the agency requesting your background check — if in doubt, contact us and we can advise.
Can I get my Canadian PCC while living in Uganda?+
Yes. Surrey Fingerprint Company's card scan service exists specifically for this purpose. You get your fingerprints taken in Uganda, mail the original card to our office in Surrey, BC, and we handle the rest — no travel to Canada required.
Can I email a photo of my fingerprints instead of mailing the card?+
No. The RCMP requires original ink fingerprint cards — photos, scans, or photocopies cannot be processed. You must mail the physical card with original ink impressions to our office in Surrey, BC.
How long will the whole process take from Uganda?+
Allow 4 to 8 weeks total: a few days to get fingerprinted in Uganda + courier shipping time to Canada + 1 business day for us to submit + 3 business days for RCMP processing (clean record) or up to 120 days (if manual review needed) + certificate mailing time back to Uganda.
What does the RCMP certificate look like and is it apostilled?+
The RCMP issues an official embossed certificate on RCMP letterhead. It is not automatically apostilled. If you need an apostille for use in a country that requires it, contact us — we can advise on the authentication process through Global Affairs Canada.

Get Your Canadian PCC from Uganda — Start Today

Email us and we will send you the RCMP C-216C fingerprint form, a complete checklist for Uganda, and current pricing. Once your card arrives, we submit it the same day.

📞 +1 (604) 825-8882  ·  ✉️ info@surreyfingerprint.com

📮

Surrey Fingerprint Company — Mailing Address (Canada)

112 - 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4, Canada
+1 (604) 825-8882 · info@surreyfingerprint.com
Office: Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–8:00 PM PT · Email: 7 days a week

📬 Canada Post Security Screening

Canada Post Employee and Contractor Fingerprinting in Surrey BC — Everything You Need to Know

📅 July 1, 2025 ✍️ Surrey Fingerprint Company ⏱️ 7 min read 📍 Surrey, BC

If you have been hired by Canada Post — or have won a Canada Post contract — you will need to complete a mandatory RCMP fingerprint-based security screening before you can begin work. Security screening is a contract requirement for those who handle mail or have access to Canada Post facilities and systems. Compliance is mandatory. This guide explains exactly what the process involves, what ORI number and form is used, what documents you need to bring, and how Surrey Fingerprint Company helps hundreds of Canada Post applicants in the Surrey area get their fingerprinting done quickly and correctly.

✅ Surrey Fingerprint Company Processes Canada Post Fingerprinting

Surrey Fingerprint Company is RCMP accredited and processes Canada Post security screening fingerprints with same-day RCMP submission. We correctly enter the Canada Post ORI number from your official form, provide your DCN receipt immediately, and keep things moving so your start date is not delayed. Walk-ins welcome Monday to Saturday 9 AM–8 PM. (604) 825-8882 · 112-8232 120 Street, Surrey BC

Why Canada Post Requires Fingerprinting

Canada Post is a federal Crown corporation that operates Canada's national postal system. Every day it handles millions of pieces of mail — including financial documents, government correspondence, parcels containing high-value goods, and sensitive personal communications. Employees and contractors with access to mail or Canada Post facilities handle this material on behalf of every Canadian. That trust demands a rigorous background check.

Three reasons security screening matters: 1. The Government of Canada Security Policy requires not just employees but contractors to undergo security screening. 2. Canada Post has a legal obligation to protect the confidentiality of mail. 3. Security screening protects the public, Canada Post, and the contractors themselves.

The screening Canada Post uses is Reliability Status — the standard baseline government security clearance for positions with access to protected information and assets. Reliability Status requires a mandatory RCMP fingerprint-based criminal record check. Without it, you cannot access Canada Post facilities, handle mail, or begin work under the contract.

Canada Post's ORI Number for Fingerprinting

Canada Post Fingerprint ORI Number

ON80223

Transaction Type: Federal Government Employment
Results routed to: Canada Post Security and Investigation Services
This number must be entered by your fingerprinting provider when submitting to the RCMP.
It comes pre-printed on the Canada Post Fingerprints Request Form — always bring the form.

The ORI number ON80223 is the Federal Government Employment identifier used by Canada Post. Your fingerprinting provider must select this ORI number when submitting your fingerprints electronically to the RCMP. When this number is correctly entered, the RCMP sends your criminal record check results directly to Canada Post's Security and Investigation Services — not to you, not to the fingerprinting provider.

🚫 Wrong ORI Number = Major Delay

If your fingerprinting provider enters the wrong ORI number — for example, using the generic PSPC PQ80800 instead of Canada Post's ON80223 — your results will be sent to the wrong department. Canada Post will not receive them. You will have to be re-fingerprinted from scratch, delaying your start date by weeks. Surrey Fingerprint Company always uses the ORI number from the official form you bring — never from memory.

Who Needs Canada Post Fingerprinting?

📮 Mail Carriers and Letter Carriers

Employees and contracted carriers who deliver mail and parcels on residential and commercial routes. Direct access to mail at sorting facilities and delivery vehicles requires Reliability Status.

🏭 Sorting Facility Workers

Staff who sort, process, and route mail at Canada Post processing and distribution centres across the Lower Mainland. These facilities handle millions of pieces of mail daily.

📦 Parcel Delivery Contractors

Independent contractors and owner-operators delivering Canada Post parcels under contract. Access to parcels, vehicles, and facilities requires completed security screening before the contract can begin.

🔧 Facility Maintenance Contractors

Trades and maintenance contractors working inside Canada Post processing facilities — electricians, HVAC technicians, cleaners, and general maintenance workers who access secured areas.

💻 IT and Technology Contractors

Software developers, IT support staff, and system administrators contracted to work on Canada Post technology systems. Access to Canada Post networks and data systems requires Reliability Status.

📋 Administrative and Office Staff

Contractors placed in Canada Post administrative, human resources, finance, or customer service roles with access to Canada Post systems, customer data, or facility access.

🚛 Transportation and Logistics Contractors

Truck drivers and logistics contractors transporting mail between Canada Post facilities. Bulk mail transport vehicles require security-screened drivers under the Government of Canada policy.

🏪 Authorized Dealers and Retail Contractors

Businesses operating as Canada Post Authorized Dealers who sell postal services, accept packages, and access Canada Post systems may require screening for key staff handling postal transactions.

The Three Documents You Need

📋 Bring All of These to Your Fingerprinting Appointment

✅
Canada Post Fingerprints Request Form — the official form provided by Canada Post HR or your security contact. Contains the ORI number ON80223 pre-printed. Do not come without this form — we cannot process without it. Those who have forgotten their form will not be able to get their fingerprints taken and will need to return with the form at another time.
✅
Two pieces of valid Canadian government-issued identification — at least one must include your photo. Documents with information on both sides must be copied front and back. One piece of ID must show a photo. Acceptable: passport, driver's licence, PR card. Not accepted: provincial health cards.
✅
Personnel Screening, Consent and Authorization Form — provided by Canada Post. This form authorizes Canada Post to conduct the security screening and documents your personal history. Complete it before your appointment. Once completed, applicant must return form to CSO or ACSO for review and submission.
📌
FBI Identity History Summary (FD-1164) — conditional. Applicants who have not lived in Canada for five full years and have resided in the US must provide Canada Post with an Identity History Summary from the FBI as part of the security screening process. Surrey Fingerprint Company provides FD-1164 ink fingerprinting for FBI submissions.
📌
Police clearances from other countries — conditional. If you have lived outside of Canada for 6 months or more in the past 5 years (other than the US), you may need police clearance certificates from those countries. The Canada Post security team will advise you specifically.

Step-by-Step Process — Canada Post Security Screening Fingerprinting

1

Receive your Canada Post fingerprint package from HR

Canada Post HR or your contracting authority sends you the Fingerprints Request Form, the Personnel Screening Consent and Authorization Form, and the Security Screening Instruction Guide. Read the instruction guide carefully. Print the Fingerprints Request Form — you must bring the physical printed form to your appointment.

2

Complete your Personal History section on the consent form

Fill in your residential history, employment history, and personal history on the Personnel Screening Consent and Authorization Form. If you know you have a conviction for a criminal offence, it is in your best interest to be honest when you fill out the form. A conviction may not disqualify you from being cleared. List all criminal convictions for which a pardon has not been granted — including DUI.

3

Walk in to Surrey Fingerprint Company — 20 minutes

Bring your Canada Post Fingerprints Request Form and two pieces of government-issued photo ID. Walk-ins welcome Monday–Saturday 9 AM–8 PM. Our technician enters ORI number ON80223 from your form, captures your ten digital fingerprints electronically, and completes Section B of your Fingerprints Request Form including your 20-digit DCN.

4

You receive your DCN receipt and completed form

We provide you with a receipt showing your 20-digit Document Control Number (DCN) and the RCMP SRE transaction record confirming your fingerprints were submitted with ORI ON80223. The applicant is required to include the document control number (DCN) with their Personnel Security Screening application form. This will allow Canada Post to match the criminal record check results from the RCMP with their application.

5

Submit your complete security screening package to Canada Post

Submit the following documents to Canada Post Security and Investigation Services: the Fingerprints Form with Sections A and B completed, your completed Personnel Screening Consent and Authorization form, and a copy of the original fingerprinting receipt. Send by regular mail or courier to Canada Post's Security and Investigations Services using the address on your instruction guide.

6

Canada Post processes your Reliability Status screening

Canada Post Security and Investigation Services reviews your application. If no criminal record is found, the RCMP results return within 3 business days and Canada Post processes your Reliability Status. Total screening time is typically 2 to 8 weeks. Those who have indicated a criminal record will be subject to a more involved screening that could take up to 120 days. These applicants may be given an opportunity to explain the offence to an officer.

Understanding the DCN — Your Most Important Number

The Document Control Number (DCN) is the 20-digit number generated the moment your fingerprints are submitted to the RCMP. It is the unique identifier that links your fingerprint criminal record check results to your Canada Post security screening application. Without it, Canada Post cannot process your application.

The results of the criminal record check and the associated document control number (DCN) sent to Canada Post will both be valid for 1 year from the date the fingerprints were taken. The RCMP does not retain copies of civil fingerprints in their system. Once the criminal record check results are produced and shared with Canada Post, these results are deleted from the RCMP system.

💡 Keep Your DCN Receipt Safe

Your DCN receipt is proof that fingerprinting was completed correctly. Canada Post may contact you about it if there is a matching issue. Make a photocopy and keep both the original and the copy. The DCN is valid for 12 months — if your Canada Post start date is delayed and more than 12 months pass from your fingerprint date, you may need to be re-fingerprinted.

What Happens If You Have a Criminal Record?

Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you will be denied Reliability Status for Canada Post. A conviction may not disqualify you from being cleared. Security and Investigation Services weigh your age at the time of the offence, the nature and severity of the offence and its relevance to your services.

The types of offences most likely to cause concern for Canada Post screening are those directly related to the job — theft of mail, fraud, identity-related crimes, or offences involving breach of trust or dishonesty. Older offences, minor offences, and offences unrelated to postal work are assessed more leniently.

The most important thing is honesty. Failing to disclose a conviction is a serious problem — not the conviction itself. If your record suspension (pardon) has been granted, you do not need to disclose that specific conviction. But any conviction without a pardon, including DUI, must be listed.

⚠️ Lived in the US? You May Also Need an FBI Check

If you have not lived in Canada continuously for the past 5 years and have resided in the United States, Canada Post requires an FBI Identity History Summary in addition to your RCMP check. This requires FD-1164 ink fingerprinting on a separate card mailed to the FBI in Clarksburg, West Virginia. Surrey Fingerprint Company provides both the RCMP electronic fingerprinting for Canada Post AND the FD-1164 ink fingerprinting for the FBI — both can be done in the same visit.

Ink and Roll Fingerprinting for Canada Post — When Is It Used?

If electronic fingerprinting is not available at a location, ink and roll fingerprints must be completed on Form C-216C and the original copy returned to the individual. The completed ink card must then be processed by a card scan provider or mailed to Canada Post.

Electronic (LiveScan) fingerprinting is strongly preferred by Canada Post because it is faster, cleaner, and produces results in days rather than weeks. Surrey Fingerprint Company uses electronic LiveScan equipment — your fingerprints are submitted to the RCMP digitally the same day, which is significantly faster than ink and roll processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Canada Post require fingerprinting for all employees and contractors?+
Security screening is a contract requirement for those who handle mail or have access to Canada Post facilities and systems. Compliance is mandatory. This applies to permanent employees, temporary staff, and contractors. Anyone with access to mail, parcels, Canada Post facilities, or Canada Post computer systems must complete Reliability Status screening including RCMP fingerprinting.
What ORI number does Canada Post use?+
Canada Post uses ORI number ON80223 for Federal Government Employment fingerprinting. This number routes your RCMP criminal record check results directly to Canada Post's Security and Investigation Services. Always bring the official Canada Post Fingerprints Request Form with you — do not ask your fingerprinting provider to use a different ORI number from memory. The form is the authoritative source of the correct ORI number.
What happens if I have a criminal record and I am applying to Canada Post?+
A conviction may not disqualify you from being cleared. Security and Investigation Services weigh your age at the time of the offence, the nature and severity of the offence and its relevance to your services. Honesty is critical — a minor conviction may not prevent clearance, but failing to disclose it will. DUI is a criminal offence and must be disclosed if a pardon has not been granted.
How long does Canada Post security screening take?+
From fingerprinting to clearance typically takes 2 to 8 weeks for a clean record. The RCMP processes fingerprints and returns results within 3 to 5 business days. Canada Post Security and Investigation Services then processes the full screening. If you have a criminal record that requires review, the screening could take up to 120 days. Getting fingerprinted as quickly as possible after receiving your forms is the single best way to minimize the wait.
I forgot to bring my Canada Post fingerprint form — can I still be fingerprinted?+
No. The official Canada Post Fingerprints Request Form must be present at the appointment. It contains the ORI number, billing instructions, and routing information required for correct submission. Fingerprinting without this form means we cannot guarantee correct ORI routing, and results may not reach Canada Post. You must return with the form — contact Surrey Fingerprint Company at (604) 825-8882 to reschedule as soon as you have it.
I lived in the US before — do I need an FBI check for Canada Post?+
Applicants who have not lived in Canada for five full years and have resided in the US must provide Canada Post with an Identity History Summary from the FBI as part of the security screening process. This requires ink fingerprinting on FBI form FD-1164 and mailing to the FBI CJIS Division. Surrey Fingerprint Company provides FD-1164 ink fingerprinting in the same appointment as your Canada Post RCMP fingerprints — you can complete both in one visit.
What is a DCN and why do I need it?+
The DCN (Document Control Number) is the 20-digit identifier generated when your fingerprints are submitted to the RCMP. The applicant is required to include the DCN with their Personnel Security Screening application form. This allows Canada Post to match the criminal record check results from the RCMP with their application. You receive your DCN from Surrey Fingerprint Company immediately after your appointment. Record it on your consent form and keep your receipt.

Working With Canada Post? Get Your Fingerprinting Done Today

Surrey Fingerprint Company is RCMP accredited and processes Canada Post security screening fingerprints daily. We correctly enter ORI ON80223, submit same day, and give you your DCN receipt immediately. Bring your Canada Post Fingerprints Request Form, consent form, and photo ID. Walk in any time Monday to Saturday.

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Surrey Fingerprint Company — RCMP Accredited

112 - 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4 · (604) 825-8882 · info@surreyfingerprint.com
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–8:00 PM · Sunday: By Appointment · Walk-ins Always Welcome
Serving Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, Burnaby, Richmond & all of BC