Stuck Waiting for a Criminal Background Check? How an Affidavit of Police Record Check Can Help

When you are applying for a new job, a professional license, or a university program (like those at McMaster or other Ontario institutions), deadlines are everything. But what happens if your official police check is delayed, lost, or taking weeks to process?

That is where an Affidavit with Regard to Police Record Check comes in.

What is an Affidavit with Regard to Police Record Check?

An Affidavit of Police Record Check is a formal, written statement that you swear or affirm to be true before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths. It acts as a legal placeholder, confirming the status or results of your background check when the official certificate isn't available.

This document could include such points such as:

• That you have officially applied for (or obtained) a police record check.

• That you have never been charged with or convicted of an offence:

  • Under the Criminal Code (Canada);

  • Under the Narcotic Control Act (Canada);

  • Under the Food and Drugs Act (Canada); or

  • Under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Canada)

• That there have never been any issued Restraining Orders, no warrants or charges out against you

• that this affidavit is TEMPORARY to fulfil the program requirements until you can obtain a Police Vulnerable Sector Check

• The date in which you will submit the Police Record by

 Because this is a sworn document, it carries significant legal weight. Providing false information on an affidavit is considered a serious offense (perjury) under the Criminal Code of Canada.

When Do You Need One?

You will typically need this specific affidavit if an employer, university, or licensing body requires proof of your criminal record status, but a roadblock pops up. Common scenarios include:

• The Clock is Ticking: You’ve applied for your check, but Ontario police processing times mean it won't arrive before your submission deadline.

• Lost or Damaged: Your original police-issued certificate was lost in the mail or destroyed.

• You’re Outside Canada: You are currently abroad and facing logistical hurdles trying to secure a Canadian check quickly.

• A "Gap" Proof: You already have a clear check from a few months ago, but an organization needs you to legally swear that nothing has changed since it was issued.

This affidavit is a temporary solution, but it does not replace an official police-issued record check. Many government agencies, corporate employers, and schools (which often provides a specific template for students) have strict rules. Always ask the requesting organization if they will accept a notarized affidavit before you book your appointment.

Need an Affidavit Commissioned in Markham?

If your school or employer has agreed to accept an Affidavit of Police Record Check, we are here to help you make it official.

At Affordable Markham Notary Public, we provide fast, reliable, and budget-friendly legal commissioning to help you keep your career or educational goals on track. Whether you have a specific template provided by your institution or need to swear your own statement, we'll ensure it is signed and sealed correctly.