When aiming to immigrate to Canada, undergoing the Canadian Immigration security screening is a crucial step mandated by the Canadian government. This comprehensive background check ensures that applicants do not threaten Canadian society, aligning with the country’s security priorities. Three federal entities conduct the screening process:
Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS): CSIS assesses an applicant’s background for potential security risks or activities that could endanger Canada’s security. The CSIS Act grants authority for investigations related to security matters under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): The CBSA plays a pivotal role in maintaining national security and public safety. This includes detaining individuals who could pose a threat, removing inadmissible people, and investigating IRPA violations or suspected criminal behavior. CBSA conducts background checks on applicants over 18 years old seeking immigration or refugee status.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): IRCC collaborates closely with CSIS and CBSA to conduct screening. While CSIS and CBSA handle the security assessment, IRCC independently reviews their findings and decides on an applicant’s admission.
The security screening process entails collecting information and documents from applicants, such as biometrics (fingerprints and a recent photo), medical exam results, health history, a valid passport, and a police clearance certificate. The Police Clearance certificate is particularly important and must be obtained from your current country of residence and any country where you lived for over six months since turning 18.
It’s important to distinguish between the Police Certificate and the security clearance. The former is a requirement for applicants, while the latter is a process managed by CSIS and CBSA in partnership with IRCC. The collaboration between these federal bodies ensures the safety and security of Canada and its residents while upholding the principles of immigration.
