What to understand
Some applications require police certificates from countries where an applicant lived for specified periods. Each country's issuing process and acceptable document may differ.
What to prepare
Use IRCC's country-specific instructions to identify the right authority and certificate. Start early where obtaining records takes time.
Important to know
A local background check may not be the certificate IRCC requires. Review translation and validity requirements.
Check the official requirements
Program rules, eligibility, fees and processing times may change. This guide is general information, not legal advice or a guarantee of any outcome. Check the current government instructions before applying.
Visit the official Canada.ca information