# SafeHire Complete Documentation

> Comprehensive guide to Canadian criminal record checks and SafeHire services

## Table of Contents

1. [About SafeHire](#about-safehire)
2. [Types of Criminal Record Checks](#types-of-criminal-record-checks)
3. [How to Get a Criminal Record Check](#how-to-get-a-criminal-record-check)
4. [Costs and Pricing](#costs-and-pricing)
5. [Processing Times](#processing-times)
6. [What Shows on a Criminal Record Check](#what-shows-on-a-criminal-record-check)
7. [Provincial Information](#provincial-information)
8. [Industry-Specific Requirements](#industry-specific-requirements)
9. [Frequently Asked Questions](#frequently-asked-questions)
10. [Business Solutions](#business-solutions)

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## About SafeHire

SafeHire is Canada's leading online criminal record check provider. We are RCMP-certified and accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA). Our service has been trusted by over 1 million Canadians for employment, volunteering, immigration, and licensing purposes.

### Why Choose SafeHire

- **Fast Results**: Most clear checks completed in 15 minutes
- **24/7 Availability**: Apply anytime, anywhere
- **Secure Processing**: Bank-level encryption protects your data
- **Accepted Nationwide**: Valid for employment and official purposes across Canada
- **Digital Delivery**: Receive results instantly via email
- **Expert Support**: 24/7 customer service team

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## Types of Criminal Record Checks

### 1. Standard Criminal Record Check

**Price**: $64.99 CAD

A standard criminal record check searches the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database for criminal convictions associated with your name and date of birth.

**What it includes**:
- Summary convictions
- Indictable offences
- Outstanding charges and warrants
- Peace bonds

**Common uses**:
- General employment
- Rental applications
- Professional licensing
- Personal verification

### 2. Enhanced Criminal Record Check

**Price**: $79.99 CAD

An enhanced check includes everything in the standard check plus additional verification and database searches.

**What it includes**:
- All standard check results
- Additional CPIC database searches
- More comprehensive verification process

**Common uses**:
- Financial industry positions
- Government employment
- Positions of trust
- International applications

### 3. Vulnerable Sector Check

**Price**: $89.99 CAD

Required for anyone working or volunteering with vulnerable populations. This enhanced check includes a search for pardoned sexual offences.

**What it includes**:
- All standard check results
- Search for pardoned sexual offences
- Additional vulnerable sector screening

**Required for**:
- Teachers and educators
- Healthcare workers
- Childcare providers
- Coaches and youth mentors
- Elderly care workers
- Social workers
- Volunteers working with vulnerable groups

### 4. RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

For official government and immigration purposes requiring RCMP certification.

**What it includes**:
- Fingerprint-based verification
- Official RCMP certification
- Sealed certificate for official use

**Required for**:
- Immigration applications
- International adoption
- Foreign government requirements
- Some professional licensing

### 5. Driver's Abstract (Ontario)

**Types available**:
- 3-Year Uncertified Abstract
- 3-Year Certified Abstract
- Complete Driver's Abstract

**Common uses**:
- Employment requiring driving
- Insurance purposes
- Commercial driver positions
- Delivery and transportation jobs

---

## How to Get a Criminal Record Check

### Online Method (Fastest)

1. **Start Application**: Visit safehire.ca and select your check type
2. **Enter Information**: Provide personal details including full legal name, date of birth, and address history
3. **Identity Verification**: Complete secure identity verification
4. **Payment**: Pay the application fee securely
5. **Receive Results**: Get your results via email (typically 15 minutes to 24 hours)

### Required Documents

- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or provincial ID)
- Proof of current address (utility bill, bank statement within 3 months)
- Previous names (if applicable)
- Complete address history (past 5 years)

### Tips for a Smooth Application

1. Use your exact legal name as it appears on government ID
2. Double-check all information before submitting
3. Have your address history ready
4. Ensure your ID documents are clear and valid
5. Apply early before any deadlines

---

## Costs and Pricing

### SafeHire Pricing

| Service | Price |
|---------|-------|
| Standard Criminal Record Check | $64.99 |
| Enhanced Criminal Record Check | $79.99 |
| Vulnerable Sector Check | $89.99 |
| Driver's Abstract (Ontario) | $29.99-$49.99 |

### Cost Comparison Across Canada

| Method | Typical Cost Range |
|--------|-------------------|
| Online services (like SafeHire) | $50-$100 |
| Local police station | $25-$85 |
| RCMP certified check | $25 + fingerprinting |

### Business Volume Pricing

Organizations can purchase voucher bundles with volume discounts:
- 10-49 checks: 10% discount
- 50-99 checks: 15% discount
- 100+ checks: Contact for custom pricing

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## Processing Times

### Standard Processing

| Check Type | Clear Results | Results Requiring Review |
|------------|---------------|-------------------------|
| Standard CRC | 15 min - 24 hours | 3-5 business days |
| Enhanced CRC | 15 min - 24 hours | 3-5 business days |
| Vulnerable Sector | 15 min - 48 hours | 5-10 business days |
| RCMP Certified | 3-10 business days | 10-15 business days |

### Factors Affecting Processing Time

- **Common names**: May require additional verification
- **Previous addresses**: Multiple provinces may require additional searches
- **Criminal history**: Checks with records require manual review
- **Application completeness**: Missing information causes delays

---

## What Shows on a Criminal Record Check

### What IS Included

- **Convictions**: Summary and indictable offences
- **Outstanding charges**: Cases currently before courts
- **Warrants**: Active warrants for arrest
- **Peace bonds**: Court-ordered conditions
- **Probation orders**: Active probation conditions

### What is NOT Included

- Pardoned offences (except VSC for sexual offences)
- Acquittals
- Withdrawn charges
- Stayed charges
- Absolute discharges (after 1 year)
- Conditional discharges (after 3 years)
- Provincial offences (traffic tickets, bylaw violations)
- Youth records (generally sealed after specified period)

### How Long Do Records Last?

| Record Type | Duration on Check |
|-------------|------------------|
| Summary conviction | Until record suspension (5 years after completion) |
| Indictable offence | Until record suspension (10 years after completion) |
| Absolute discharge | 1 year |
| Conditional discharge | 3 years |
| Youth record | Sealed after specified period |

---

## Provincial Information

### Ontario

Ontario residents have multiple options for criminal record checks:
- Online through accredited services
- Local police services (Toronto Police, OPP, etc.)
- Fingerprint-based RCMP check

**Processing through Ontario police**: 1-8 weeks
**Online processing**: 15 minutes - 24 hours

### British Columbia

BC residents can obtain checks through:
- Online accredited services
- Local RCMP detachments
- Municipal police departments

### Alberta

Alberta residents can obtain checks through:
- Online accredited services
- Calgary Police Service
- Edmonton Police Service
- Local RCMP detachments

### Quebec

Quebec residents can obtain checks through:
- Online accredited services
- Surete du Quebec
- Montreal Police Service (SPVM)
- Local police services

### Other Provinces

Criminal record checks are available in all provinces through SafeHire's online service or local police services.

---

## Industry-Specific Requirements

### Healthcare

Healthcare workers in Canada typically require:
- Vulnerable Sector Check (for patient care roles)
- Standard CRC (for administrative roles)
- Renewal: Annually or as required by employer

### Education

Teachers and school staff typically require:
- Vulnerable Sector Check (mandatory)
- Annual or bi-annual renewal
- Required before starting employment

### Childcare

Daycare and childcare workers require:
- Vulnerable Sector Check (mandatory)
- Required by provincial regulations
- Typically renewed annually

### Volunteers

Volunteer background check requirements depend on role:
- Working with vulnerable populations: VSC required
- General volunteering: Standard CRC may be requested
- Many organizations offer free or subsidized checks for volunteers

### Security Industry

Security guards and private investigators require:
- Standard Criminal Record Check (minimum)
- May need enhanced check for sensitive sites
- Required for licensing in most provinces

### Real Estate

Real estate professionals often need:
- Standard Criminal Record Check
- Required for licensing with regulatory bodies
- Renewal with license renewal

---

## Frequently Asked Questions

### General Questions

**Q: How long is a criminal record check valid?**
A: There is no official expiration date. Most organizations accept checks completed within 3-6 months.

**Q: Can non-citizens get a criminal record check?**
A: Yes. Anyone residing in Canada can obtain a criminal record check regardless of citizenship status.

**Q: Do I need a criminal record check for every job?**
A: Not all jobs require background checks. It depends on the employer and position. Positions working with vulnerable populations, in financial services, or in security typically require checks.

**Q: What if I have a criminal record?**
A: Having a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you from employment. Employers consider the nature of the offence, time elapsed, and relevance to the position. Some records can be removed through record suspension (pardon).

### About the Process

**Q: How do I know if my check is legitimate?**
A: Legitimate criminal record checks come from accredited providers. SafeHire is PBSA accredited and RCMP certified.

**Q: Can someone run a background check on me without my consent?**
A: No. Criminal record checks require your consent and personal information. Employers must have your written permission.

**Q: What happens if there's an error on my check?**
A: Contact the provider immediately. Errors can be corrected through the RCMP or issuing agency.

### Technical Questions

**Q: Is my information secure?**
A: SafeHire uses bank-level 256-bit encryption. We are SOC 2 compliant and follow strict data protection protocols.

**Q: How will I receive my results?**
A: Results are delivered via email as a secure PDF document. You can also access results through your account.

**Q: Can I share my results with multiple employers?**
A: Yes. You receive a digital copy that can be shared with any requesting party.

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## Business Solutions

### Employer Services

SafeHire offers comprehensive solutions for businesses:

**Voucher System**
- Pre-purchase check vouchers in bulk
- Distribute to candidates/employees
- Track usage through employer portal
- Volume discounts available

**Employer Portal Features**
- Centralized dashboard for all checks
- Real-time status tracking
- Automated reminders for renewals
- Compliance reporting
- User management for HR teams

**Integration Options**
- ATS integration available
- API access for custom integrations
- Single sign-on (SSO) support

### Volume Pricing

| Volume | Discount |
|--------|----------|
| 10-49 checks | 10% |
| 50-99 checks | 15% |
| 100-249 checks | 20% |
| 250+ checks | Custom pricing |

### Compliance Support

- PBSA best practices compliance
- Privacy legislation compliance (PIPEDA)
- Provincial employment standards guidance
- Audit trail and documentation

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## Contact Information

**Website**: https://www.safehire.ca
**Support**: Available 24/7
**Business Inquiries**: https://www.safehire.ca/business

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## Legal Information

SafeHire operates in compliance with:
- Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)
- Provincial privacy legislation
- Canadian Human Rights Act
- Professional Background Screening Association standards

All information provided is for general guidance only. Consult with a legal professional for specific advice regarding background checks and employment law.

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*Last Updated: February 2026*
*Version: 1.0*