IRCC can police certificates from countries where applicants have studied or worked, and some countries (like the Netherlands) have slow processing times.
Here’s how you can handle it so your application isn’t refused
1. Don’t wait — send an explanation before the deadline
Log in to your IRCC account and upload a Letter of Explanation (LOE) in place of the police certificate before the 30-day deadline.
- In your LOE, clearly state:
- The date you received IRCC’s Additional Document Request (ADR).
- The date you applied for the Dutch police certificate.
- The official processing time provided by the Dutch authorities.
- That the certificate will be mailed to you, which adds extra time.
- That you will submit it to IRCC as soon as you receive it.
- Attach proof that you have already applied for the certificate — this could be:
- A receipt or payment confirmation.
- A confirmation email from the Dutch authorities.
- A screenshot of your application submission.
2. IRCC’s usual approach
IRCC will typically not refuse your application if you can prove you applied for the police certificate within their deadline and it’s outside your control to receive it sooner.
- They may either give you an extension or keep your file open until you submit the missing document
3. After you receive the certificate
Scan it and upload it to IRCC immediately via the webform or in the document upload section (if they reopen it).
- Include your application number and a short message referencing your previous LOE.
4. Why this works
IRCC’s own instructions say that if a police certificate is delayed due to factors outside your control and you provide proof you’ve applied for it, they won’t refuse you for non-compliance — they just need to see that you acted promptly and honestly.