Every Canadian immigration application — Express Entry, Provincial Nominee, spousal sponsorship — requires a police clearance certificate from every country you've lived in for 6 months or more since turning 18. For the United States, that means getting a FBI Identity History Summary from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division.
Most applicants are already in Canada when they need this certificate, so this guide leads with the process for applying from Canada. If you're still in the United States, scroll down to Applying from inside the United States. The certificate is valid for Check with issuing authority from the date of issue — time your application carefully so it doesn't expire before IRCC processes your PR application.
Quick reference
| Detail | From Canada | From the United States |
|---|---|---|
| Processing time | 3–10 business days at FBI + 5–10 days mail transit each way | 3–10 business days after FBI receives fingerprint card (plus mail transit 5–10 days) |
| Cost | USD $18 FBI fee + CAD $50–$100 fingerprinting + CAD $30–$50 courier | USD $18 FBI fee + CAD $50–$100 fingerprinting service + CAD $30–$50 courier to USA |
| Validity | Check with issuing authority | Check with issuing authority |
Applying from Canada
This is the most common scenario — you're already in Canada and need to get your FBI Identity History Summary from the United States remotely. You'll apply through the American embassy, consulate, or an authorized service provider.
How to apply
Same process as from within the US. Get fingerprints on FD-258 card at RCMP-accredited service in Canada. Mail to FBI CJIS Division in Clarksburg, WV.
Documents needed
- FD-258 fingerprint card
- FBI Identity History Summary request form
- Cover letter with name, DOB, purpose
- Canadian return address
Cost and timeline
Applying from Canada costs USD $18 FBI fee + CAD $50–$100 fingerprinting + CAD $30–$50 courier and takes approximately 3–10 business days at FBI + 5–10 days mail transit each way.
Tips for applying from Canada
- Process identical from Canada or US — entirely mail-based.
- Use courier service (UPS/FedEx) for faster transit to Clarksburg, WV.
- FBI results mailed back — allow 2–3 weeks total including mail both ways.
- No online application available — must mail physical fingerprint card.
Apply for your PCC as soon as you enter the Express Entry pool — don't wait for your ITA. The 3–10 business days at FBI + 5–10 days mail transit each way processing time means you could burn through half your 60-day ITA deadline just waiting for this one document.
Official portal: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/identity-history-summary-checks
Applying from inside the United States
If you're still living in the United States or plan to visit before your ITA deadline, applying in person is faster and usually cheaper.
How to apply
Get fingerprints taken on FD-258 card at an RCMP-accredited or certified fingerprinting service in Canada. Mail completed fingerprint card + request form + payment to FBI CJIS Division, 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306.
Documents needed
- FD-258 fingerprint card (properly inked/rolled by certified service)
- Completed FBI Identity History Summary request form
- Cover letter with full name, date of birth, and purpose
- Return address in Canada
Cost and timeline
The FBI Identity History Summary costs USD $18 FBI fee + CAD $50–$100 fingerprinting service + CAD $30–$50 courier to USA and takes approximately 3–10 business days after FBI receives fingerprint card (plus mail transit 5–10 days) to process.
Tips for applying from the United States
- Get fingerprints at RCMP-accredited service (FingerScan, Global E.I.A., etc.) — available same-day in major cities.
- Mail directly to FBI — no channeler needed for basic immigration use.
- Keep tracking number for courier package.
- Process is identical whether you're in Canada or the US.
Official portal: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/identity-history-summary-checks
When to apply
The FBI Identity History Summary from the United States is valid for Check with issuing authority. IRCC requires it to be valid when you submit your PR application, and ideally when they process it (which can take months). The sweet spot is applying 2–4 months before you expect to submit your PR application.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying too early — if the certificate expires before IRCC reviews your application, you'll need a new one
- Applying too late — waiting until after your ITA means the 60-day clock is ticking while you wait for processing
- Wrong type of certificate — make sure you request the certificate specifically for immigration purposes, not a local background check
- Missing documents — incomplete applications are the #1 cause of delays
- Not checking validity — some countries issue certificates with very short validity periods (Check with issuing authority)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a PCC from the United States if I only lived there for a few months?
IRCC requires a police certificate from every country where you lived for 6 months or more since turning 18. If you were there for less than 6 months, you generally don't need one — but check the specific requirements for your immigration program.
What if my name has changed since I lived in the United States?
You'll need to provide proof of the name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.) along with your PCC application. The certificate should ideally reflect both your current and previous names.
Can I use a digital copy or does IRCC need the original?
IRCC accepts scanned copies uploaded to your online application. You don't need to mail the original. However, keep the original — IRCC may ask for it during processing.
What if the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division is very slow?
If your PCC is delayed beyond a reasonable timeframe, you can include a written explanation with your PR application and upload proof that you've applied (receipt, confirmation number, etc.). IRCC may grant an extension in exceptional cases.
Next steps
Once you have your police clearance certificate sorted, make sure the rest of your ITA documents are ready:
- Express Entry Document Checklist — full list of everything you need
- WES ECA Guide — getting your education credentials assessed
- How to Improve Your CRS Score — maximize your points before applying