Identification Canada FAQs – Police Clearance, Fingerprinting & Pardons
Clear answers about our identification services across Canada, including police clearance certificates, digital fingerprinting in Montreal, Canadian pardons (record suspensions), and U.S. entry waivers.
Police Clearance Certificates — FAQ
Canada-wide (name-based online) · Fingerprinting in Montreal if required
What is a police clearance certificate?
A police clearance certificate (also known as a criminal record check or CPIC check) confirms whether you have a criminal record in Canada.
It is commonly required for employment, licensing, immigration, study, visas, or volunteering.
Do I need fingerprints, or is a name-based check enough?
Many organizations accept a name-based CPIC check without fingerprints. If your request is for immigration, citizenship, adoption, vulnerable sector screening,
or fingerprints are specifically required, a fingerprint-based (certified) check is necessary.
Can I apply online from outside Montreal?
Yes. Name-based police clearance certificates are processed online Canada-wide.
If fingerprints are required, they must be completed in person at our Montreal, Quebec office.
How much does it cost?
Our online name-based police clearance certificate costs $55 + tax.
Fingerprint-based checks completed in our Montreal office have separate fees.
How long does it take?
Name-based checks are often completed the same day or within 1–2 business days.
Fingerprint-based checks depend on RCMP processing times and may take longer.
Where are fingerprints taken?
Digital fingerprints are taken at our Montreal office using RCMP-accredited equipment.
Canadian Pardon (Record Suspension) — FAQ
What is a Record Suspension?
A Record Suspension (formerly a Canadian Pardon)
sets eligible convictions aside in the national CPIC database so they do not appear on standard
criminal background checks.
Does it erase my criminal record?
No. A record suspension does not erase history; it restricts access to your record.
Court orders, such as driving or firearm prohibitions, still apply.
Will a Record Suspension help with employment or licensing?
In many cases, yes. Federal employers cannot discriminate based on a suspended record,
and many private employers and licensing bodies view a suspension as evidence of rehabilitation.
Digital Fingerprinting (Montreal) — FAQ
In-person in Montreal, Quebec · RCMP-accredited submission
Where do you take fingerprints?
Digital fingerprinting services are provided in person at our Montreal office,
serving clients across Greater Montreal.
Do you submit fingerprints to the RCMP?
Yes. We electronically capture and submit fingerprints directly to the RCMP for certified checks.
What identification is required?
Two valid pieces of identification are required, including at least one government-issued photo ID.
Contact Us About Fingerprinting
Or visit our Montreal office during business hours — no appointment required.
U.S. Entry Waivers — FAQ
What is a U.S. Entry Waiver?
A U.S. Entry Waiver (Form I-192) allows otherwise inadmissible Canadian residents
to legally enter the United States with approval from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Does a Canadian Record Suspension remove the need for a waiver?
Not necessarily. U.S. authorities make independent admissibility decisions,
regardless of Canadian pardons or record suspensions.
Always follow the instructions of the requesting authority regarding document type and format.