Police Clearance Certificate for Canada Immigration

Who Needs a Police Certificate?

IRCC requires police certificates (also called police clearance certificates or criminal record checks) from every country other than Canada where you have lived for six or more consecutive months since turning 18. This includes your country of citizenship if you've lived there. If you've lived in multiple countries, you need a certificate from each. Some countries issue certificates that cover the entire country; others issue them by region or city. IRCC's country-specific requirements page lists exactly what's needed for each country.

How to Obtain One

Requirements vary significantly by country. Some countries allow online applications; others require in-person visits to a police station or embassy. Processing times range from a few days to several months. Use IRCC's country-specific instructions—they specify the exact type of certificate, where to get it, and any special procedures. Start early: if you've lived in a country with slow processing, apply as soon as you know you'll need it. Some certificates must be issued within a certain period before submission; check the validity rules.

Validity and Translation

Police certificates are typically valid for a limited time—often 6 to 12 months from the date of issue. If your application is delayed, IRCC may request a new certificate. Certificates must be in English or French. If the original is in another language, you must provide a certified translation from an accredited translator. The translation should be stamped and signed. Keep copies of both the original and the translation for your records.