Q & A: Police vs. Background Clearance

CIC News
Published: January 1, 1999

Q. What is the difference between a background check and a police clearance certificate?

There appears to be some uncertainty or overlap in the use of these terms on both this discussion group and in the official immigration literature. I recently submitted my independent PR application from England via London, and I enclosed my original British police clearance certificate. At the same time I have been reading references to the background checks that visa officers may conduct whilst assessing an application.

Answer: The police clearance is conducted with the active involvement of the applicant, and is intended to demonstrate the lack of a criminal record. The background clearance is conducted without the applicant's intervention, and is intended to "maintain and protect the safety and good order of Canadian society by preventing the admission of persons who threaten the internal security of Canada or endanger the lives or safety of persons in Canada; to promote international order and justice by denying the use of Canadian territory to persons who are likely to engage in subversive or criminal
activity."

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Top Stories
Getting your prescription medication as a newcomer to Canada
Senators release new report on improving the integrity of Canada’s international student program
Gender Equality Week: How Canada promotes equality for all newcomers
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Life in Canada
Getting your prescription medication as a newcomer to Canada
pharmacist and client
Gender Equality Week: How Canada promotes equality for all newcomers
A diverse group of friends.
Nanos poll says Canadians would prefer lower immigration targets
Downtown Vancouver
Statistics Canada: Nearly 60% of Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals employed in their field of study in Canada
Healthcare professionals speak in a hospital corridor.
Link copied to clipboard