About police certificates
You need to give your biometrics
In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.
In most cases, when you apply to become a permanent resident of Canada, you and your family members need to get a police certificate.
We may also ask you for one if you’re coming to Canada as a:
- tourist
- student
- temporary worker
- caregiver
We use police certificates to find out if you have a criminal record. They help us make sure you’re not inadmissible to Canada.
What is a police certificate?
A police certificate is a statement that you don’t have a criminal record or, if you have one, a copy of your criminal record. They help us confirm if there are any reasons you may be inadmissible to Canada.
Police certificates are different in each country and territory. They may be called:
- police clearance certificates
- good conduct certificates
- judicial record extracts or
- other names
If your certificate is in a language other than English or French, send the police certificate along with a translation from a certified translator.
Who needs a police certificate?
You and any family member 18 or older may need to get a police certificate, depending on the program you’re applying to.
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