Are you starting an exciting new job or educational program in Toronto that involves working with vulnerable populations? Congratulations! But wait – you’ve been asked to complete a vulnerable sector screening. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide.
What is Vulnerable Sector Screening?
A Vulnerable Sector Check (also known as a Level 3 check) is intended for individuals seeking employment or volunteer opportunities with vulnerable persons. A vulnerable person is defined as a person who, because of their age, a disability, or other circumstances, whether temporary or permanent, are (a) in a position of dependence on others or (b) are otherwise at a greater risk than the general population of being harmed by person(s) in a position of authority or trust to them.
A Vulnerable Sector Check is typically used for the following types of positions and student placements:
Teachers
Elder Care
Daycare
Coaches
Nurses
Step-by-Step Process for Toronto Residents
Gather Required Documents
- Two pieces of government-issued photo ID, one must include your photograph and signature, and one must include your full name and date of birth.
- photo Identification: Driver’s Licence, Government Employment Card, Military Employment Card, Age of Majority Card, Canadian Citizenship Card, India Status Card, International Student Card, Passport, Permanent Resident Card, Firearms Acquisition Certificate, Ontario
- Letter from your employer/educational institution
Choose Your Application Method
Online: Visit the Toronto Police Service website
In-person: Book an appointment at a Toronto Police station
Complete the Application Form
Provide accurate personal information
Specify the reason for your check (employment or education)
Pay the Fee
Current fee: $65 (subject to change)
Payment methods: Credit card (online), debit/credit (in-person)
Submit and Wait
Processing time: 4-6 weeks (may vary)
- If you receive correspondence with a fingerprints request, you can locate an RCMP-accredited private fingerprinting agency to have your fingerprint taken.
Fingerprint Requirements
According to Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) policy, the applicant will be requested to provide fingerprints if the applicant’s gender and date of birth match an existing pardoned sexual offence record. The CCRTIS will destroy fingerprint records once the search is completed and the identity verified. The results of the verification are not kept.
You can find additional information on the RCMP’s website here.
There are two options for handling the fingerprints taken:
Option 1. You may attend Toronto Police Headquarters to have your fingerprints taken.
Option 2. You may attend an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency.
Tips for using an accredited private fingerprinting service:
- Ensure to take fingerprints at the RCMP-accredited fingerprinting company. You can find one on the RCMP website.
- Confirm before and upon appointment that the private company can take fingerprints for vulnerable sector check purposes.
- You must provide the TPS file number to the fingerprinting agency for reference.
- The private fingerprinting agency ensures that the RCMP returns the results of the fingerprints directly to the Toronto Police Service at the below address:
- Toronto Police Service
- Attention: record release (VSC fingerprints)
- 40 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto ON M5G 2J3
- Once TPS receives the fingerprint results, they will complete the VS check and send the correspondence by mail within 60 days.
- Click here to get more tips for fingerprints
