Basic police clearance questions

[qanda]

Are these the right links for police clearance requests for Pennsylvania?

www [dot] fbi [dot] gov/about-us/cjis/background-checks/background_checks
epatch [dot] state [dot] pa [dot] us/

(sorry for the URLs - I got a message that I could not post links when I first tried)

And is there any need to certify documents (similar to an apostille)?

 

[cantor2537]

Did they specifically for state checks? I think you only need the FBI checks.

 

[qanda]

Did they specifically for state checks? I think you only need the FBI checks.

Beats me. I can't find it documented anywhere -- the CIC web site says only that "the Visa Office" can specify. When I go to the Buffalo web site and click on the link for family sponsorship, it takes me right back to the main CIC web site.

Regarding the FBI checks, I'm asking about the certification (like apostille) because there are two options (see below) for the FBI check, but you can only use second if you don't need a authentication. Since the FBI brings up authentication, does it matter to Canada?

Option 1: Submit your request directly to the FBI.

Option 2: Submit to an FBI-approved Channeler, which is a private business that has contracted with the FBI receive the fingerprint submission and relevant data, collect the associated fee(s), electronically forward the fingerprint submission with the necessary information to the FBI CJIS Division for a national criminal history record check, and receive the electronic record check result for dissemination to the individual. Contact each Channeler for processing times.

Note: An FBI-approved Channeler cannot authenticate (apostille) fingerprint search results. A request for your FBI Identification Record or proof that a record does not exist must be submitted directly to the FBI if an authentication (apostille) is needed.

 

[CharlieD10]

1. Request only your FBI check at this time. If Buffalo needs your state check, they will request it and provide some information on how to go about securing it.

2. The FBI check does not need an apostille.