Identification Canada FAQs – Police Clearance Certificates, Fingerprinting, U.S. Entry Waivers & Pardons
Clear answers about Identification Canada’s services, including police clearance certificates, digital fingerprinting in Montreal, Canadian pardons (record suspensions), and U.S. entry waivers. Most services requiring fingerprints are completed in person at our Montreal office, while eligible name-based police clearance certificates can be processed online across Canada.
Police Clearance Certificates — FAQ
Canada-wide online · Fingerprinting required only when mandated
What is a police clearance certificate?
A police clearance certificate confirms whether a person has a criminal record in Canada.
It is commonly required for employment, immigration, visas, licensing, professional registration,
adoption, volunteering, or international travel.
Can a police clearance certificate be done entirely online?
Yes. If fingerprints are not required, a name-based police clearance certificate
can be completed fully online anywhere in Canada. This is the only service we offer that does not
always require fingerprinting.
When are fingerprints required for a police certificate?
Fingerprints are required when specifically requested by immigration authorities, foreign embassies,
government agencies, or when name-based results are inconclusive. Fingerprinting must be completed
in person at our Montreal office.
Is a police clearance certificate the same as a vulnerable sector check?
No. Vulnerable sector checks are a separate screening type and typically require fingerprinting.
We can advise whether fingerprints are mandatory based on your requesting organization.
Who issues the police clearance certificate?
Name-based certificates are generated through authorized CPIC channels.
Fingerprint-based certificates are processed and certified by the RCMP.
Canadian Pardon (Record Suspension) — FAQ
What is a Canadian Record Suspension?
A Record Suspension, formerly known as a Canadian Pardon, separates eligible criminal records
from active CPIC databases, preventing them from appearing on standard background checks.
Who is eligible to apply for a Record Suspension?
Eligibility depends on offence type, sentence completion, and waiting periods set by the
Parole Board of Canada. All fines, probation, and jail sentences must be fully completed.
Are fingerprints required for a Record Suspension?
Yes. A certified RCMP fingerprint submission is mandatory for all Record Suspension applications
and must be completed in person at our Montreal office.
Will a Record Suspension allow me to enter the United States?
Not automatically. U.S. border authorities make independent decisions, and a U.S. Entry Waiver
may still be required even after a Record Suspension is granted.
Digital Fingerprinting (Montreal) — FAQ
In-person · Montreal office only · RCMP accredited
What services require fingerprinting?
Fingerprints are required for Record Suspensions, U.S. Entry Waivers,
fingerprint-based police certificates, immigration requests, and certain licensing applications.
Do you offer fingerprinting outside Montreal?
No. All fingerprinting services are performed exclusively at our Montreal, Quebec office
using RCMP-accredited digital fingerprinting systems.
Is an appointment required?
Walk-ins are welcome during business hours. Appointments may reduce wait times during busy periods.
U.S. Entry Waivers — FAQ
Who needs a U.S. Entry Waiver?
Canadian citizens or residents with certain criminal offences, prior refusals,
or inadmissibility issues may require a U.S. Entry Waiver to legally enter the United States.
Are fingerprints required for a U.S. Entry Waiver?
Yes. U.S. Entry Waivers require fingerprinting and biometric data, which must be completed
in person at our Montreal office.
How long is a U.S. Entry Waiver valid?
Approved waivers are typically issued for one to five years, depending on U.S. Customs and Border
Protection discretion.
Always confirm requirements with the requesting authority before applying.