How to Get a Criminal Record Check in Winnipeg
The process of obtaining a criminal background check can feel daunting — even if your record is squeaky clean.
It’s imperative to know exactly where to go and which documents to prepare. Plus, there’s the task of familiarizing yourself with the different types of criminal record reports — each one with a different purpose.
Whether you’re an eager volunteer or you’ve been offered an exciting career opportunity, you should be well informed about criminal record checks.
Our mission at Instant Record Check is to ensure a smooth experience by providing you with the facts. We’re giving you a detailed look on how to get your criminal record check in the city of Winnipeg.
We’ll start by clarifying the distinctions between the different types of criminal background checks.
After taking a look at the different types, we’ll explain your options of where to acquire them: in person or online.
The goal is to make getting criminal records checks as quick and painless as possible. With that in mind, let’s get started.
What Are Name-Based Criminal Record Checks?
A name-based check only requires your first and last name, along with your date of birth.
This information is then run through the police records or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) database to pull up any previous criminal records history. This database is referred to as the CPIC system — the Canadian Police Information Centre.
If the name-based police record check proves unable to verify a person’s identity, fingerprints may be requested. For instance, this might be the case if two people share the same name.
This is when it becomes a certified criminal record check.
What Are Certified Criminal Record Checks?
For a certified criminal record check, the RCMP requires a fingerprint to guarantee accuracy. Since no two people share the same fingerprint, this method is rock solid in confirming an individual’s identity.
Certified criminal record checks may be required in Canada for instances such as for citizenship or visa applications. Some employers may also request a certified criminal records report.
What Is a Vulnerable Sector Check?
This is the most in-depth review of all records showing any criminal or sexual crime that was committed in Canada. A vulnerable sector check even looks for pardoned and dismissed offences.
Canada implements this type of criminal record analysis to protect vulnerable persons such as the disabled, elderly or children.
Volunteer and employment positions requiring a vulnerable sector check include:
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Daycares
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Nursing homes
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Bus drivers
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Social workers
Also, any person going through an adoption process will be asked for a vulnerable sector report.
Background Checks Done in Person
You can have your criminal background check run by officials at the Winnipeg Police Service.
The Winnipeg Police Service also handles fingerprinting in their office.
Where to Go
Address: 245 Smith Street Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0R6
Accepting applications: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.
Phone: +1 204 986 6222
For criminal record checks requiring fingerprints: an applicant first needs to pay a fee of $67.20 for the fingerprinting, plus $25 for the processing fee. This is conducted through customer service representatives.
Remember: Hang on to your payment receipt!
Then head to the Identification Unit and present your proof of payment. Here you can complete the application procedure.
You’ll find the customer service desk and Identification Unit both on the main floor.
What to Bring
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2x current forms of identification.
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One must be government-issued with a photo, stating name, birthdate, and expiration date.
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The second doesn’t require a photo, i.e., a birth certificate or health insurance card.
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The Winnipeg Police Service website lists all acceptable forms of photo and non-photo ID.
If a fingerprint is required, a passport-style photo will be taken at the time of fingerprinting.
Waiting Period
The Winnipeg Police Department doesn’t give exact periods for how long the processing will take.
They do, however, show the submission dates for applications they’re currently processing on their website.
The RCMP states that it takes about three days to process your documents on their website from start to completion. This is if you have no criminal offences that come up on the report. Otherwise, it can take up to 120 days.
Considering the handling times of both the Winnipeg Police and the RCMP, it will take 1-2 weeks to process a criminal record check.
Source: Unsplash by Nathan Dumlao
Online Background Checks
You can opt out of visiting the Winnipeg Police Service if you submit your application online. You can also use an accredited agency such as Instant Record Check.
Many applicants choose this route because it saves time and headaches.
Qualifying Factors
These are the requirements for getting your criminal record check through an accredited agency:
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Residency in Winnipeg with proof of address
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At least 1 year of residency in Canada
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Agency must be registered with Winnipeg Police’s online system
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You must be 18 years or older
Where to Go Digitally
Source: Unsplash by Glenn Carstens-Peters
One benefit of filing online is convenience because everything for the police check from start to completion can be accomplished in the comfort of your own home.
For accredited and secure criminal record processing, visit Instant Record Check. Our services will assist you in getting your check completed within hours.
It’s true: we’ll do the hard part so you don’t have to.
Instant Record Check handles every step in acquiring your police clearance certificate — making your experience quick and uncomplicated.
How It Works
First, we’ll send off your information, along with a letter to the RCMP. The letter explains that we’re requesting a criminal background check.
Then, the RCMP will respond to us with your certificate of clearance. This states any Canadian-based criminal charges you have, if any.
Since we send your information out right away, your waiting time is cut significantly.
FAQs
Q: Can I Get My Criminal Record Check Outside of Canada?
Yes. You can get a record check from anywhere, even outside of Canada.
To do so, you must get your fingerprints taken from the police services in the jurisdiction you’re currently residing in.
Then, you must contact an accredited agency in Canada to convert the paper fingerprints to digital.
The fingerprints are then submitted to the Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS).
Q: What’s the Difference Between a Police Information Check and a Criminal Record Check?
They’re the same.
A Police information check, or PIC, is synonymous with criminal record checks. PIC is simply a newly-used term.
Q: Does the Winnipeg Police Service Have a Way to Expedite the Process?
No.
As their website states, every applicant is handled on a first-come, first-served basis. If you need this document urgently to start a new job, be sure to apply online. It’s a more practical option for your situation.
Q: Why Should I Get My Online Criminal Record Check Through an Agency, Instead of the Winnipeg Police Service’s Online Option?
Enjoy a shorter waiting period.
Yes, both options will save you a trip to the police station. Although, filing your application with the Winnipeg Police Service’s online system won’t reduce the time needed for processing.
By filing with an accredited online agency, you can skip the lag you’d encounter waiting for your application to be handled by the police station.
Hence the name, Instant Record Check. We ensure there’s no time wasted in getting you to your next destination in life.
Summary
This article provides a detailed guide on obtaining a criminal record check in Winnipeg, Canada. It explains the different types of checks available, including name-based checks, certified checks, and vulnerable sector checks.
The article highlights the options of obtaining the checks in person at the Winnipeg Police Service or online through accredited agencies like Instant Record Check. It discusses the required documents, fees, and waiting periods for both methods.
Additionally, the article addresses frequently asked questions regarding criminal record checks, such as obtaining checks outside of Canada and the distinction between police information checks and criminal record checks. Overall, the article aims to simplify the process of obtaining criminal record check, also known as police record check, and provides valuable information about the necessary steps and resources, including criminal record transcripts.
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Choose Instant Record Check
Ready to get your criminal record check in Winnipeg? Whether you choose to go in person or apply online, Instant Record Check is here to make the process quick and hassle-free. Learn more and get started on obtaining your criminal record check within hours. Don’t let the process hold you back from your next opportunity. Let Instant Record Check handle the hard part for you! Get Your Criminal Record Check Today!
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