Obtaining a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) for Use in Austria

Obtaining a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) for use in Austria involves several steps to ensure the document is recognized by Austrian authorities. Here's a comprehensive guide to assist you through the process:

1. Determine the Appropriate Type of Police Clearance Certificate

For international purposes, especially for countries like Austria, the Certified Criminal Record Check (Fingerprint-Based Check) issued by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is the most reliable and widely accepted form of PCC. This check involves fingerprinting, ensuring accuracy and authenticity. Although in many cases a quick online name-and-date-of-birth check will suffice, it’s always best to ask the requesting party what is most appropriate in your case.

2. Application Process

  • Within Canada:
    • Fingerprinting: Visit an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency to have your fingerprints taken.
    • Submission: The agency will submit your fingerprints electronically to the RCMP's Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS) for processing.
    • Processing Time: Typically, the RCMP processes these requests within 3-7 business days upon receiving the electronic submission. However, additional time should be allotted for mailing and any unforeseen delays.
  • Outside Canada:
    • Fingerprinting: Have your fingerprints taken at a local police station or an accredited fingerprinting agency in your current country of residence.
    • Submission: Send your fingerprints to an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting company in Canada for electronic processing. Some agencies offer services tailored for international applicants.
    • Processing Time: Similar to domestic applications, the RCMP aims to process these requests within 3-7 business days upon receiving the electronic submission. However, international mailing times and potential delays should be considered.
  • Quick Name and Date of Birth Check: In many cases, an online name and date of birth check can be a quicker alternative to fingerprint-based checks. This option may suffice for situations where a detailed criminal history is not required. These checks can often be completed within minutes and are widely available through online platforms or accredited agencies. Be sure to confirm with the requesting Austrian authority whether this type of check is acceptable for your specific needs.

3. Authentication and Legalization (Apostille) for Use in Austria

As of January 2024, Canada has joined the Hague Apostille Convention, simplifying the process of document validation for international use. This means that Canadian documents, including PCCs, intended for use in Austria now require an apostille instead of the previous authentication and legalization process.

  • Steps to Apostille Your PCC:
    • Notarization: Before apostille, we ensure your PCC is notarized by our in house Canadian notary public.
    • Apostille: We then submit the notarized document to the appropriate Canadian authority for apostille certification. This will be done through Global Affairs Canada or the designated provincial authorities, depending on the document's origin.

4. Utilizing the PCC in Austria

Once your PCC has been apostilled, it is recognized for official purposes in Austria. This may include employment, immigration, or other legal matters. Ensure you check with the specific Austrian authority or organization requesting the PCC to confirm any additional requirements or translations needed.

5. Additional Considerations

  • Validity Period: Be aware that PCCs are often considered valid for a limited time, commonly up to six months. Confirm the validity period accepted by the Austrian authorities to ensure your PCC remains current during your application process.
  • Professional Assistance: Given the complexities involved in obtaining and apostilling a PCC, especially from abroad, you might consider engaging professional services that specialize in international document processing to facilitate a smoother experience.

Don’t Delay—Start Your Application Today

Ensure your Canadian Police Clearance Certificate is prepared and validated for use in Austria with ease.

Fill out the Quote Request Form and we will follow up by email on cost and processing timelines.

Call customer support at 1-800-336-1132 for personalized assistance with your application.

No matter where you are, obtaining a CPIC certificate for use in Austria has never been faster or simpler.