Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs) for Canada PR Visa: A Complete Guide

Introduction to Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs)

PCC is a formal document obtained from a designated body of an organisation of a country, or by the Law Enforcement body of the country, or by the police of the jurisdiction. It is a critical document required to show during international travel, employment and immigration. 

It is a core element in background checks for an individual. It indicates whether the individual has been involved in any criminal activities, arrests, or convictions during their stay in the country. It is the character check of the individual to ensure reliability when travelling, staying in a new country, or working in a new office /job. 

What Is a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate?

A Canadian PCC is a formal document issued by the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) or local police authorities. It verifies whether you have a criminal record or any pending criminal charges against you, based on their national database.

Who Can Request a Police Clearance Certificate?

1. Applicants for Canadian Immigration or Citizenship:
   IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) will require you to provide background clearance from Canada and every country you’ve lived in for 6 months or more since turning 18.
2. Foreign Nationals:
   If you’re outside Canada but require a Canadian police check (for immigration elsewhere), the process is similar but may involve international fingerprinting.
3. Employers/Educational Institutions:
   Many employers and universities also require a recent police clearance.

Importance of Police Clearance Certificate for Immigration:

• National Security and Public Safety: The primary reason for any other country is to take care of its citizens and maintain security in its jurisdiction. When applying for an Immigration visa to Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) screens applicants to determine whether they pose a threat, based on their past behaviour.
• Checking Admissibility: A thorough check is the ultimate criterion for obtaining visa approval and ensuring admissibility to stay in the country. A PCC helps an officer to determine whether the applicant has access to live in their country based on their history.
• Verifying Good Character: Police verification and investigation help in certifying “no threat” to the country and its people.
• Upholding Immigration Standards: PCC from the country helps you to obtain the immigration visa of another country.
• International Cooperation: It builds trust and coherence between the two nations.

Who Needs a Police Clearance Certificate for Canada PR?

• Applicants and their family members who are 18 years and above
• From every country where you or a family member has stayed for more than 6 months in the last 10 years.
• If you have applied for a PR visa within Canada, then you are not required to apply for a Canadian PCC. However, you are required to have police clearance certificates from other countries where you resided for six months or more in the past 10 years.

Types of Police Clearance Certificates in Canada

Different types of background checks in Canada are conducted, based on what level of information is required:

1. Name-Based Criminal Record Check

• Inspect by using your name and date of birth.
• Generally used for employment and volunteers.

2. Certified Criminal Record Check with the help of Fingerprints

• Uses fingerprints to search the RCMP’s national database
• Required for immigration, PR applications, or when a name-based check shows a match

3. Vulnerable Sector Check

• Includes a check for any interactions with police involving vulnerable individuals (children, elderly, etc.)
• Required for specific jobs or volunteer roles

 How can you apply for a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate?

The procedure depends on your location, whether you are inside or outside Canada.

If You Are Inside Canada:

You can obtain it from:

• Your local municipal police service (e.g., Toronto Police Service, Vancouver Police)
• RCMP (The Royal Canadian Mounted Police), through a certified fingerprint processing

Steps:

1. Choose the type of check (name-based or fingerprint-based)
2. Visit a police station or an authorised fingerprinting agency
3. Provide valid ID documents
4. Pay the fees (typically CAD 25–75)
5. Wait for results via mail or online (depending on method)

If You Are Outside Canada:

You’ll need to submit fingerprints to the RCMP from abroad.

Steps:

1. Get your fingerprints taken by a local police agency or fingerprinting service in your country
2. Mail them to a certified Canadian fingerprinting agency (some accept digital scans)
3. Submit a copy of your passport, application form, and fees
4. Request delivery to your international address or Canadian immigration office.

⏱ Processing Time for Police Clearance Certificate

The time to process the criminal record check varies according to different police authorities and the chosen type of criminal checks, which is as follows:

• Name-based checks: 1–7 business days
• Fingerprint-based checks (in Canada): 2–4 weeks
• Outside Canada: 4–12 weeks, depending on mailing time

Delays may happen if additional verification is required or if fingerprints are difficult to match.

Police Clearance Certificate Cost

Here’s a breakdown of standard fees in Canada:

Type of Check	Approximate Cost (CAD)
Name-based criminal record check	$25 – $50
Fingerprint-based certified check	$50 – $75
Vulnerable sector check (if needed)	$65 – $85

Additional charges may apply for digital fingerprinting, translations, or mailing services:

Aspect	Details	Additional Cost (Approx.)
Fingerprint Method	– Digital (Preferred): Done at accredited agencies (e.g., Commissionaires)	$50 – $100 (varies by provider)
	– Ink & Paper: Must be mailed to RCMP	$25 – $50 (if done at a police station)
Translation Services	Required if the PCC is in a language other than English/French	$20 – $75 per page (certified translation)
Mailing Services	– Domestic: Included in some fingerprinting fees	$5 – $20 (if applicable)
	– International: If sending PCC to an overseas address	$20 – $60 (courier fees)
Total Estimated Cost	– Basic PCC (with digital fingerprints): ~$50 – $100	–
	– With extras (translation + mailing): ~$100 – $200+	–

Documents checklist for Canadian PCC

You need to submit the documents to the Authorised centre. They may request additional documents for further inspection.

• A copy of a Government-issued photo ID card, such as a passport, a driver’s license, or a PR card
• Proof of address (if needed)
• Fingerprint appointment confirmation (if applicable)
• Application form (if using the RCMP or third-party service)
• Payment receipt

If the police certificate is not in English or French, include a certified translation and a copy of the original.

Apply for an Indian PCC from Canada: A step-by-step Process.

If you are living in Canada, then we will be guiding you through the process to apply for the Indian PCC:

Step 1: Identify Your Jurisdiction

Determine your consular jurisdiction (preferably by postal code) as per the Indian High Commission or Consulate near you:

• High Commission of India, Ottawa
• Consulate General of India, Toronto
• Consulate General of India, Vancouver

Tip: Visit BLS International Canada to verify your centre.

Step 2: Fill in the PCC Application Form Online

1. Visit the official Passport Seva website: https://portal3.passportindia.gov.in/
2. Register yourself or log in.
3. Choose “Apply for Police Clearance Certificate”.
4. Complete the online application, print it, and sign it.

Note: Manual changes are NOT allowed after submission. If there’s an error, you must fill out a new form.

Step 3: Book an Appointment with BLS International

• Search for your nearest BLS submission office.
• Select either in-person or postal submission. The in-person is the faster option.
• Book an appointment through the BLS portal online.

Step 4: Submit Documents & Pay Fees

• Visit the selected BLS International centre with:
  • The application form
  • All the needed documents (original and copies)
  • Applicable fees (range from $45 to CAD 70 as of 2025, plus any courier charges)

• Submit all the documents and biometrics (if asked).
• You will get a receipt with a tracking number.

Step 5: Wait for Police Verification in India

Once the application is submitted:

• The Indian Consulate forwards your request to the Passport Office in India.
• The local police in India verify your address and records.
• After successful clearance by the police, your PCC is issued by the Canadian consulate.

Processing Time: Estimated to be between 4 and 8 weeks, depending on your case and the timeline of your local Indian police station.

How You’ll Receive Your PCC in Canada

After the processing is over, your Police Clearance Certificate will be:

• Delivered to your address via courier (Canada Post/Xpresspost) if you paid courier charges, OR
• Ready for pickup at your local BLS centre (you will be notified via email/SMS)

How to Submit PCC to IRCC

Upload your scanned police certificate(s) directly to your IRCC account through the online platform for a permanent residency visa or any other visas. Ensure the document is:

• Clear and readable
• Documents in PDF or JPEG format
• Also, a translation and affidavit if required

If the PCC cannot be obtained in time, include:

• Proof of application (receipt or letter from issuing agency)
• Letter explaining the delay and expected delivery date

IRCC may accept it temporarily and request an update later.

Why Do You Need a Police Clearance for Employment?

In 2025, more Canadian employers across private, government, and non-profit sectors are prioritising security, trust, and compliance. Therefore, they ask for a PCC during the hiring process for roles in:

• Vulnerable populations, such as those in healthcare, education, and social work
• Financial institutions, such as banks, insurance companies
• Government and public safety departments
• Immigration-related positions, such as international recruitment, childcare

How Long Are Police Certificates Valid for PR in Canada?

Generally, a police certificate is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. However, for immigration purposes:

• Certificates must be issued within the last three months before submitting your PR application.
• Even if they’re valid for one year, older certificates may not be accepted if too much time has passed since they were issued.

Where to Apply Online for a Canadian Police Certificate

Here are a few major, RCMP-accredited fingerprinting and police check providers with online application portals:

• Commissionaires
• Canadian Fingerprinting Services
• Reliability Screening Solutions
• BackCheck

Useful Links

• RCMP – Criminal Record Checks
• IRCC – How to Get a Police Certificate

Bonus: Useful Resources

• IRCC Police Certificate Info
• Canada Immigration Help
• Need assistance with your PR application? Consider consulting an ICCRC-licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.

PCC Validity for Canada PR Applications

• If applied from the current country, the validity of the PCC from the date of issue must be for a minimum of 6 months. Since processing times vary, the IRCC authority may request that you submit an updated PCC.
• From the country where you have stayed for 6 months or longer after turning 18 in the last 10 years: The PCC must be issued after you leave the country. If it has expired, you can still show the certificate. However, if the PCC has been issued before your last stay, then you need to renew it for the updated version.
• If the PCC expires during the processing time, the authority will request an updated version. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

📌  Can I apply for an Indian PCC within Canada?

Yes, Indian nationals living in Canada can apply for an Indian PCC directly through the Indian Consulate, facilitated by BLS International.

📌 Is police verification always needed in India?

Yes, if you have applied for the Indian PCC, then the police verification is conducted in India itself at the address mentioned in the application form.

📌 How long is the Indian PCC valid for?

It depends on the visa requirements, as:

• For immigration: It is valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
• For other purposes, as requested by the organisation.

📌  I had a PCC issued previously. Can I reuse it?

It’s always recommended to apply for a new PCC, as Canadian immigration usually requires certificates issued within the last 6 months.

📌  Do I need separate PCCs for each country I stayed in?

Yes. If you lived in India and another country, you would need to obtain separate police clearance certificates from each.

📌 What happens if I have a criminal record?

IRCC assesses each case individually, and on this basis, your application may be rejected or accepted. You require a revival certificate or need legal assistance.

📌 Is a police clearance certificate the same as biometrics?

No. Biometrics refer to fingerprints and photos taken for identification, while PCC reveals your criminal background record.

📌 Can I submit my PR application without the certificates and send them later?

Yes, but if you can provide proof of having requested them.

How to Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate: India

To apply for a PCC in India, you are required to obtain a particular visa to migrate or travel to other countries. You need to apply to the Passport Seva System, which is run by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. 

Based on an individual’s current location, the process of obtaining a character check varies. It is advisable to get updated information from the official website. If you are living abroad, it is advisable to contact the Indian Embassy to stay informed about the procedures and requirements.

A. For Indian Citizens living in India 

Step 1: Create a Profile in Passport Seva Portal:

• Visit the website of the Passport Seva portal
• Sign up or register your account to create a profile, fill in the details and then log in to the Home Page.

Step 2: Application for PCC:

• Click on the “Police Clearance Certificate” link.
• Then, fill the form with the required information and accurate details. It needs to match an Indian passport. 
• Fill in the permanent/present home address, as the police would conduct the investigation there. Once you fill out the form, you will not be able to make any changes.
• After submitting the form online, you will get an Application Reference Number (ARN)

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment and pay the Application fees:

• After submitting the form online, you need to schedule at your convenience at your nearest PSK (Passport Seva Kendra) or POPSK (Post Office Passport Seva Kendra)
• It is mandatory to pay the application fees while booking the schedule, via debit/credit card or net banking.

Step – 4: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK/POPSK)

• Visit the selected PSK/POPSK on the appointed date with all the required original documents and the self-attested photocopies.
• General documentation required:
• Original Indian passport along with self-attested copy of first two and last two pages, and ECR/Non-ECR page & any observation pages
• Proof of present address in India should be provided and should match the one provided in the application. Aadhar card, driving license, Voter ID, Utility bills, and Bank Statements are not considered proof.
• Proof of applying for PCC, for example: a copy of an ITA for a PR visa from the country, a visa application letter, or any other official letter
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Application receipt for PCC
• Your documents will be assessed, and you may be required to undergo biometric tests.

Step – 5: Police Verification

• After your visit to PSK/POPSK, your application will be submitted to the Indian police authority, and a police officer will initiate the investigation process.
• The police officer may visit the specified address and collect any additional documents.
• The police verification report is crucial for PCC, and typically it takes 6-8 weeks to complete the process.

Step 6: PCC

• After validating the applicant’s past records and completing the investigation process, the police officers submit the verification report card to the Passport Seva system; subsequently, the PCC is issued.
• You can track the verification status using your application ARN.

B. For Indian Citizens living in a different country: 

Step 1: Online Application at Passport Seva for Embassies and Consulates

• Visit the Passport Seva at Indian Embassies and Consulates portal: “https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in/” 
• Register with your new account or sign in with an existing one.
• Please fill out the PCC application form online, based on your current residential address abroad and its consular jurisdiction, and select the correct Indian High Commission/Consulate.
• Take the printout and fill out the form.

Step 2: Submission to the Outsourced Agency

• You need to submit the printed application form along with the required documents and application fees to the outsourced agency authorised by the Indian Embassy/Consulate in your country of residence.
• General Documents required to submit:
• A correctly signed printout of the application form.
• Original Indian passport along with self-attested copy of first two and last two pages, and ECR/Non-ECR page & any observation pages.
• Proof of your current address in the foreign country, such as a driver’s license, provincial ID, utility bills, etc.
• Proof of your valid status in the country by showing your valid visa permit, along with a landing paper if applicable. If your permit has expired and a renewal is in process, you may require a letter from the local immigration centre stating the issue.
• Passport-sized colored photographs
• Application fees are payable via certified cheque or money order for postal applications, or by debit/credit for walk-ins.
• A pre-paid return courier envelope for postal applications.
• Proof of purpose for PCC by showing ITA invitation, etc.

Step 3: Police Verification in India

• The Indian Embassy/Consulate will forward the application form to the Passport Issuing Authority (PIA) in India, which will further start an investigation at the given permanent/present address in India.
• The final police report of India will be issued within 6-8 weeks.

Step – 4: PCC Issuance:

• Once “the Indian police authority has declared clear” status, the Indian Embassy will issue the Police Clearance Certificate.
• It will then be dispatched to you via postal service or can be collected in person as per your chosen method.

Fees for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in India:

• Approximate Fees: Generally, you need to pay around INR 500 to INR 1,000 for issuing a PCC from a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Passport Office in India
• If applied from abroad, the fees vary by country. For example, if you are applying from Canada, then the cost is CAD 38.

Mode of Payment: The fee is typically paid at the time of application at PSK/POPSK or through an outsourced agency abroad via cash, debit/credit card, or demand draft/money order.

General Document Checklist Required for PCC Application

• Original Indian passport
• Self-attested photocopies of the first two pages and the last two pages, along with the ECR/Non-ECR page and observation page, if possible
• Proof of present address, if it is different from the passport
• Evidence of the purpose for the PCC application, such as an invitation letter from IRCC, or a document applying for permanent residency
• Online Application Form
• Passport-sized Photographs
• Any other documents mentioned by the PSK or any other relevant authority
• For Foreign nationals who stayed in India: Documented proof of staying in India, such as an educational degree, marksheet, school leaving certificate, job letter, etc.

Common Challenges and Solutions in Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate

Every individual faces challenges in achieving something, especially when it comes to obtaining a certificate from the police authority. 

We have listed the challenges and solutions that every individual should be aware of while waiting for the final police certificate.

"Typically, the verification process takes weeks or even months, which can delay obtaining the certificate before the visa application submission deadline."

Solutions: 

• Start the PCC application process as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the last moment.
• Track your application by using the online tracking systems provided by the issuing certificate or an outsourced agency.
• If time is running out or there are significant delays, contact their helpline at the provided number and email address. Be polite and decent while raising the issue. 
• Suppose your primary application, for example, an immigration visa application or any other application, has a deadline, and the PCC processing time is being delayed. In that case, you can provide proof along with a Letter of Explanation (LOE) describing your current situation.

"You need to be very careful to avoid incomplete documents or rejections to ensure you don't make common mistakes, such as submitting incomplete documents, blurry scanned copies, mismatched information, expired IDs, or providing incorrect details."

Solutions:

• Review the official document checklist provided by the issuing authority from top to bottom. Avoid relying on third-party agencies or outdated lists.
• Verify and double-check all your details and information before submitting the documents. Ensure that all names and fields on your application form match those on the supporting documents. 
• Ensure that all the scanned copies are clear, highly readable and in the correct formats as mentioned. 
• Ensure that all your identification documents and address proofs are valid and issued by an authorised body.
• Translate all your documents into English by an authorised translator. 

"Issues may arise during the police verification process, which can include the police officer being unable to locate anyone at the provided permanent and present addresses, requesting additional informal payments, or delaying the submission of final reports"

Solutions:

• Ensure that someone is there at the given address to interact with the police officer.
• Ensure that you have all the original address proofs and required documents ready for the verification process.
• Report the corruption to the higher levels or official channels that have the authority to take action, but be cautious of the personal risks associated with doing so.
• If delays occur, please politely inquire at the local police station to expedite the process.
• If you are living abroad, ask your family members or friends in India to help in facilitating the police verification at your given address.

"You may face challenges in obtaining the PCC from countries with conflicts, political instability, or no diplomatic ties"

Solutions:

• Most immigration authorities should show proof of the attempt. You must demonstrate that you have made efforts to obtain the PCC, which includes copies of correspondence with the issuing authority, receipts for application fees, and other relevant documents, to support your stance of not obtaining the PCC.
• Write an LOE describing why you can’t obtain the PCC, mentioning your current situation, and attach the supporting documents.

"As it's valid for just 6 months and due to the lengthy processing time in immigration processes, which often exceeds the 6-month validity period, your PCC may expire."

Solutions:

• You need to be aware of the specific rules regarding PCC validity and the immigration authority that requests it. 
• After the validity period, the officer may request an updated PCC; in this case, you will need to obtain a new one by following the same procedures. 
• If you already have an expired PCC from another country, you can submit it along with your LOE, explaining that it’s the most recent one you have obtained. The rules may vary from country to country, depending on the immigration program and the officer.

Most Commonly Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a PCC if I only visited a country for a short vacation?

A: If you have stayed for more than 6 months, then you must have the PCC from that country

Q: What if I have a minor criminal record?

A: If the PCC reveals a criminal record, even a minor case, then it can lead to inadmissibility or refusal. Do not hide or misrepresent the record, or else you will be banned from entering the country forever.

Q: Can I submit my application without a PCC and provide it later?

A: It is advisable to submit the complete application, but due to uncertainties and delay in obtaining the PCC, you still can submit the application along with the proof of applying for the PCC, and LOE explaining the delay in getting, the efforts made and by the approximate time you will get.

Q: How often do I need to update my PCC?

A: PCCs from the past countries of residence may remain valid forever if you haven’t returned. Still, the PCC of the current residence is valid for 6 months at the time of application, and you will need to obtain a new one if it expires during the processing time.

Q: What if my PCC shows a record, but the charges were dismissed?

A: If PCC shows you have a record, but the charges were dismissed, then you need to address the issue transparently and comprehensively in the visa application. Most countries take criminal inadmissibility very seriously. Therefore, be honest and transparent while submitting the visa application.