Guide To Immigration Visa Background Checks And Security Screenings

Every applicant must go through a thorough process called immigration screening or immigration background checks. The immigration screening process helps to detain criminals, bankrupts, and ineligible applicants while ensuring the safety and security of the country. No matter their race, nationality, or religion, applicants are subject to a background check by the federal agency in charge of managing immigration benefits.

Background Check for Canada Immigration

A background check (BGC) is a process used to confirm a visa applicant’s criminal and/or security history to determine whether they are eligible to enter Canada. Background checks are a collective term for information sharing, security screening, and criminality checks. There is a difference between a background check, in which the applicant is typically not actively involved, and a police clearance certificate, also known as a certificate of non-criminal activity (used for a criminality check).

In essence, a background check involves three steps:

• Criminality Check
  Have you ever been involved in any crime? This can be anything from a DUI to involvement with organized crime. In these situations, the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) works with local and international police forces, intelligence agencies, and other authorities, much like the FBI or a federal police force. The criminality check IRCC processing time can vary depending on the complexity of the applicant’s background.
• Security Screening
  Are you a potential threat to the security and well-being of Canada and Canadians? The three federal agencies that handle security screening are CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency), CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service), and IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
• Information Sharing
  Several agencies may communicate and share information during the background check. This includes CBSA, CSIS, and IRCC, as well as international partners.

In order to ensure applicants are not a threat to national security, CSIS and CBSA offer security advice to IRCC, which ultimately decides who is admitted. The security screening process applies to various visa categories, such as visitor visas, study permits, work permits, and permanent residency applications.

Also Read: How can your Immigration Application not be Rejected?

What is the Background Check and Screening Procedure?

Investigation techniques used in an immigration background check include the following processes:

• IBIS Name Check (Inter-Agency Border Inspection System)
  IBIS gathers data from various sources to quickly assess whether an applicant is eligible or needs further investigation.
• FBI Fingerprint Check
  This check takes between 24 and 48 hours. If criminal histories are revealed, and the violation shows that the applicant is not eligible for a visa, the investigation may be halted.
• FBI Name Check
  This check takes about 14 days, or longer if additional research is needed. If criminal history or other issues are revealed, further investigation or delays may occur.

All immigration applicants must pass these three checks before their interview. If any of these checks yield a negative result, the immigration process may fail.

Also Read: Fees For Canadian Immigration Processing

How Long Does It Take To Get Through Background and Security Checks?

The service delivery standard for screening permanent resident applications is 110 calendar days, during which 80% of applications are processed. While most security checks are completed within 1-2 months, processing can sometimes take up to 9–18 months depending on various factors.

Applicants should be aware that while the background check process may be lengthy, it is necessary for ensuring the safety and security of the country.

For example, the IRCC background check time can vary for different types of applications, such as study permits or permanent residency. The PR background check processing time can be longer depending on the individual’s case and background complexity.

In some cases, if applicants feel their application is stuck, they may consider filing a writ of mandamus after waiting more than a year. A writ of mandamus is a legal order compelling the government agency (like IRCC) to take action if the delay is deemed unreasonable.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Obtaining an Immigration Visa

• Pre-emptive Background Check:
  Running your own background check before applying can help ensure that no errors or discrepancies appear in your records.
• Correct Any Issues:
  If you find any past offenses or inaccurate information on your record, address them before submitting your application to avoid delays or rejections.
• Hire a Professional:
  Using a reputable background screening company can help streamline your process. They can offer tailored services and provide a certificate of clearance that the visa officer can review.
• Understand the Process: As the IRCC, CBSA, and CSIS share information during the security screening process, being informed about the procedure can help you understand the stages involved and any potential delays.

Also Read: Top Canadian Immigration Pathways From India

conclusion

The immigration background check process is an essential part of ensuring safety and security for Canada. While the IRCC background check can take time, understanding its stages—from criminality checks to security screenings—can help applicants navigate the process more effectively. Being proactive by reviewing your records and hiring a reputable screening company can help reduce delays. Though the processing time can vary, staying informed and patient is key. Ultimately, clearing the background check paves the way for a successful visa or permanent residency application.

For any inquiries regarding your immigration background checks and visa application processes, contact Croyez Immigration today. Our team of experts is here to assist you in navigating the complexities of the immigration system and ensuring a smooth application journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How is background check done for Canada visa?

A background check for a Canada visa includes three key steps: criminality checks, security screening, and information sharing between agencies like IRCC, CBSA, and CSIS. The checks verify the applicant’s criminal and security history to determine eligibility.

2. What kind of background check does visa do?

Visa applicants are subject to criminality checks (involving police records), security checks (to assess potential threats to national security), and information sharing among various immigration and law enforcement agencies.

3. How long does IRCC take for a background check?

The IRCC background check time typically takes 1–2 months, though it can sometimes take up to 9–18 months, depending on the applicant’s background and other factors such as security concerns. The criminality check IRCC processing time may vary based on individual circumstances.

4. Does Canada do a background check on everyone?

Yes, every visa applicant, regardless of nationality, is subject to a background check as part of the immigration process. This is to ensure the safety and security of Canadian citizens. The background checks may take different lengths of time, depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s background.

5. How is background check done in Canada?

In Canada, a background check involves criminality checks (through police records), security screening (assessing national security risks), and information sharing between various agencies such as IRCC, CBSA, and CSIS.

6. How long does background verification take IRCC for study permit?

The background verification for study permits generally takes 1-2 months, but processing times may vary based on the applicant’s specific background or if additional investigation is required.

7. What is background check in IRCC?

The background check in IRCC is a process that involves assessing an applicant’s criminal and security history to determine if they pose any threats to Canada. This includes criminality checks, security screening, and information sharing between different government agencies.