Getting a certified criminal record is an important part of the Record Suspension or US Entry Waiver application process. Some people ask us why it takes so long. They often say, “My friend got a police check in a few hours.” The certified criminal record is different from the police check. It lists details of a conviction. In comparison, a police check only states whether the person has a criminal record. Sometimes it says it’s unclear whether or not the person has a criminal record. This is what an employer will look at before they hire you.
On the other hand, the certified criminal record check is provided by the RCMP. This is done by using your fingerprints to search the RCMP National Repository of Criminal Records. Currently the RCMP states that the wait for a certified criminal record is 120 days or longer. If you are waiting on fingerprints, you must wait the 120 days before contacting the RCMP for an update. This is one of the reasons why it is important to start the Record Suspension process as soon as possible. Don’t wait until you are applying for jobs or trying to access other opportunities. This will only add to your stress. Don’t wait until you need to cross the border for work. Get started before you need to travel.
Certified criminal record and fingerprints
In order to get your certified criminal record, you will need to get fingerprints. If electronic fingerprints are available in your area, you should get these. It will save you time. A local police detachment or accredited company can take your fingerprints. When you sign up with Pardon Services Canada, we will give you a list of recommended locations.
Your certified criminal record will contain the fingerprints on file (if you have been charged and convicted) and a list of the charges, discharges and convictions.
Why do I need electronic fingerprints?
Electronic fingerprints increase the accuracy of the screening. Not all police detachments are equipped to do digital fingerprints. Call ahead to find out, especially if you live in a small town. They may be able to recommend you to an accredited agency. Otherwise, your ink fingerprints will have to be scanned.
The RCMP uses fingerprints because it eliminates the possibility that the wrong person will be associated with a record. This could happen if someone had a similar name.
If you are ready to get started on the Record Suspension or US Entry Waiver process, contact us today. Find out how we can help at 1-866-972-7366.
Hello. Years ago I started the process of getting my Canadian Pardon and my U.S Waiver. For years, I have not received word from CPS. I did do record checks, was finger printed electronically and I have paid $620.00 twice now, plus what it takes ($45.00) to get my paper work needed for CPS. I also answered all of the questions on the questionnaire including my letter stating why I think I should be allowed to go back into the United States. This all took me a very long time to get all of this done for you and to date, I still have not heard back from you. I do have a Passport, but I am still not allowed into the USA. I really need all of this done and over with. My last charge was in 2002 and I think you would agree that I have waited a very long time. In closing, I need to be able to enter the USA for:
#1. My health is bad and I need to go to the Mayo Clinic for a complete medical, which has been recommended by my Family Doctor and my Specialists. I can barely walk now and occasionally I need to be in a wheelchair, otherwise, I need a cane or I don’t walk at all. I am also a Diabetic and I have Cushings Syndrome. I beg of you, please help me and let me know if or what else I have to do to be free to be me again. This has been years of great stress.
Hi Jo-Anne, I’m sorry to say that it sounds like you signed up with a company that has since gone out of business. Our Senior Client Advisor will contact you to discuss your situation.
March 2016 I tried crossing usa border,(‘Access Denied’) Canadian pardon, worthless. Q; do I hav 2 buy visa’s everytime I want to visit family in the USA.?
Hi musicm, If you have been denied entry to the United States, you need to get a US Waiver. A US Waiver is good from six months to five years. You can cross as many times as you like. If you are a Canadian citizen, you do not need a visa to enter the US for up to six months. You just need to obtain the US Entry Waiver.