Apply for a background check in Canada online through our secure digital process. For many routine screening needs, applicants can complete a name-based police background check using Canadian police databases such as CPIC without visiting an office in person.
This page explains what a background check Canada request usually means, when a name-based CPIC check is commonly accepted, and when fingerprint verification may be required instead. Start online, verify your identity securely, and receive your official result by encrypted email.
Complete the secure online form and verify your identity digitally. Many routine files are typically available the same day or by the next business day.
This page is intended for applicants whose request can be satisfied with a name-based police background check.
A background check in Canada can mean different things depending on the organization asking for it. Do not use a name-based CPIC background check if your letter specifically requires fingerprints, a Vulnerable Sector search, or a different type of police-service-issued result.
In those situations, visit our fingerprinting page.
Learn more: RCMP · IRCC · Police Certificates
A background check in Canada is a general term used to describe screening requested by employers, schools, regulators, volunteer organizations, landlords, and other institutions. Depending on the situation, a background check may refer to identity verification, employment screening, or a police record check.
In many routine cases, when people search for a Canada background check, they are actually looking for a name-based police background check using CPIC. That type of screening is commonly used when an organization wants to know whether an applicant has a criminal record for standard non-fingerprint purposes.
This page focuses on the type of background check Canada request that can be completed online through a name-based search of Canadian police databases.
Processing time can vary, but many routine files are completed quickly once identity verification is approved.
Organizations may request a background check for many reasons, including:
The exact type of background check required depends on the organization, so always review your request letter carefully.
Many routine background check Canada requests can be handled through a name-based police record check. This type of screening searches Canadian police databases such as CPIC using your identifying information.
It is commonly used for standard employment, volunteering, licensing, education, and personal record requests where fingerprints are not specifically required.
Some background check requests go beyond a name-based search and require fingerprint-based criminal record verification. This usually happens when an organization or government authority specifically asks for RCMP-verified fingerprints.
If your request falls into that category, use our fingerprinting service instead.
Employers are not the only organizations that ask for a background check. In Canada, background screening is also commonly requested by:
Before starting, confirm whether your request is asking for:
Choosing the correct screening path helps avoid delays, resubmissions, and unnecessary costs.
Applicants across Canada can begin online and then use a province hub for local guidance and access to major city pages. Select your province or territory below.
These national pages explain related topics and help applicants understand the differences between common screening terms.
Before starting your application, read the instructions in your employment letter, placement request, school notice, licensing checklist, or organization form.
Most files are processed quickly and the official result is delivered by secure email as a PDF. Turnaround can vary during busy periods or if manual review is needed.
Because the process is digital, applicants across Canada can complete the application from a desktop computer, tablet, or mobile device.
“Quick and clear.” I needed a background check for work and the instructions were easy to follow. — A.M.
“Helpful support.” My ID upload failed at first, but their team explained exactly what to fix. — S.K.
“Easy online process.” I completed everything from home and received my result by email. — J.R.
A background check is a broad term used for screening requested by employers, schools, regulators, landlords, and organizations. In many routine cases, applicants are looking for a name-based police record check.
Not always. “Background check” is a broader term. Depending on the request, it may refer to a police record check, identity screening, or another type of verification. Many routine background check requests are satisfied with a name-based CPIC police record check.
Yes. If your request accepts a name-based police background check, you can apply online from anywhere in Canada, verify your identity digitally, and receive the result by secure email.
Fingerprints are required when the requesting authority specifically asks for RCMP-verified fingerprints, a fingerprint-based criminal record check, or another process that cannot be completed through a name-based search.
Start now, verify your identity securely, and receive your official result by encrypted email. If you have questions before applying, call us and we’ll help.
