How to Get a Criminal Record Check in Canada Faster: Everything You Need to Know

In Canada, criminal record checks are often required for employment, volunteer work, immigration, education, and professional licensing. Whether you are starting a new job, applying for permanent residency, or volunteering at a community program, having a clear and verified background check is essential. The challenge many applicants face is time delays in the process can cost opportunities, stress, and even income.

That’s why choosing the right provider matters. Services like CriminalBackground.ca are designed to simplify the process, ensure accuracy, and deliver results faster than traditional methods. This guide will walk you through why criminal record checks are important, the different types available in Canada, and exactly how to get them done quickly and securely.

Why Criminal Record Checks Are Important

A criminal record check is more than just paperwork—it’s a safeguard that ensures safety, trust, and compliance. Employers, government agencies, and organizations use these checks to verify that an individual does not pose a risk in sensitive roles.

Common Situations Where You Need a Criminal Record Check

  • Employment Applications – Many companies require background checks before extending a job offer.

  • Volunteer Opportunities – Working with charities, non-profits, or vulnerable populations often requires verification.

  • Immigration & Citizenship – Immigration Canada requests background checks as part of visa, PR, and citizenship processes.

  • Professional Licensing – Regulated professions such as healthcare, law, and finance often require fingerprint-based checks.

  • Travel & Visa Applications – Some countries require a Canadian criminal background check for entry or work permits.

Types of Criminal Record Checks in Canada

Not all background checks are the same. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right one—and avoid unnecessary delays.


1. Name-Based Criminal Record Check

  • Uses your full name and date of birth to search against the national police database.

  • Fastest option—results are usually available the same day for clear cases.

  • Best for general employment, rental applications, and low-risk volunteer work.

  • Limitation: If your name and DOB match someone else in the system, you may need a fingerprint-based check for confirmation.

2. RCMP Fingerprint-Based Criminal Record Check

  • Uses digital fingerprints to accurately match identity against the RCMP database.

  • Considered the most reliable and accurate form of criminal record verification.

  • Required for immigration, security clearances, government contracts, and certain licensing bodies.

  • Typically processed within 3–7 business days.

3. Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

  • Required for individuals working or volunteering with children, seniors, or other vulnerable groups.

  • Searches for pardoned sexual offences under the Criminal Records Act.

  • Often requested by schools, daycares, health facilities, and volunteer organizations.

  • May take slightly longer (3–7 business days) due to the extra depth of the check.

How to Get a Criminal Record Check Faster

Getting your record check quickly depends on choosing the right provider, preparing properly, and avoiding common mistakes.

Step 1: Choose the Correct Type of Check

  • If you need results quickly for a job, start with a name-based check.

  • If the organization requires accuracy or has strict legal requirements, opt for a fingerprint-based check.

  • For roles involving children or vulnerable groups, you’ll need a Vulnerable Sector Check.

Step 2: Prepare Your Identification

To avoid delays, gather at least two valid government-issued IDs:

  • One must include a photo (e.g., driver’s license, passport, PR card).

  • The second can be a health card, SIN card, or birth certificate.

Step 3: Submit Through a Trusted Provider

Platforms like CriminalBackground.ca allow you to:

  • Select the correct check type online.

  • Upload IDs securely.

  • Submit your application from anywhere in Canada.

  • Track the status of your request online.

Step 4: Track and Receive Results Securely

Once processed, results are delivered:

  • Directly to your email in secure format.

  • Through encrypted download portals.

  • Or directly to requesting organizations (when applicable).

How CriminalBackground.ca Makes It Faster

Many applicants face delays when using local police services, especially during high-demand periods. CriminalBackground.ca provides:

  • Nationwide Coverage – Available in every province and territory.

  • Fast Processing Times – Same-day results for clear name-based checks; 3–7 days for fingerprint and VSC checks.

  • Secure Technology – Advanced encryption ensures your information is always protected.

  • Simple Online Process – No need to stand in line at a police station.


Starting your background check today with CriminalBackground.ca can save time, reduce stress, and get you results when you need them most.

Tips to Avoid Delays

  1. Double-check ID validity – Expired IDs or mismatched information will cause delays.

  2. Submit early – Don’t wait until the last minute if your start date or application deadline is approaching.

  3. Be accurate – Any typos in your name, date of birth, or address can cause processing issues.

  4. Understand your needs – If the role requires fingerprints, don’t waste time starting with a name-based check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does a name-based check take?
 A: Clear records are often available the same day.

Q: Can I apply from anywhere in Canada?
 A: Yes, CriminalBackground.ca supports applicants from all provinces and territories.

Q: Is my information safe?
 A: Absolutely. The system uses strong encryption, and personal data is only shared with authorized agencies.

Q: What if my name matches someone else?
 A: You may be asked to complete a fingerprint-based check for confirmation.

Whether you’re applying for a new job, moving to Canada, or volunteering with your community, a criminal record check is often a requirement you can’t avoid. The good news is that the process doesn’t need to be stressful or time-consuming. By preparing properly and using trusted services like CriminalBackground.ca, you can receive accurate, secure, and timely results—helping you move forward with confidence.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Start your criminal record check today with CriminalBackground.ca and take the stress out of the process.

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