Maple News reports that obtaining a police certificate for periods of residence in China—required for Canadian Express Entry—can be a major hurdle, especially if you are applying from abroad. In China, the document is commonly called the No Criminal Record Certificate, and the process is largely in-person with no single national standard guiding issuance.
Chinese rules and procedures vary by city, which can be especially challenging for applicants who have lived in multiple cities within the past decade. If you’ve moved around, you may need to obtain a certificate from each city where you resided, adding to potential delays in your Express Entry timeline.
For Express Entry candidates, it is prudent to start the police certificate process while you are still in the pool. Securing the certificates early can help mitigate delays that might affect your invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
The exact steps depend on whether you are a Chinese citizen and whether you currently live inside or outside China. In general, you must either apply in person in China or appoint a representative to apply on your behalf. City-specific requirements mean you should contact your local Public Security Bureau for precise instructions.
If you are outside China, options can be more limited and may involve arranging to have a representative apply on your behalf or returning to China to complete the process, depending on city rules. It is important to confirm what your local bureau requires to avoid wasted trips or rejected applications.
If obtaining a police certificate proves impossible, you can explore plan B with IRCC. You may submit a letter of explanation, provide police clearances from other countries where you resided for extended periods, and include supporting documents. Consulting with an experienced immigration professional can help tailor a strategy that aligns with IRCC expectations and your specific residency history.
In all cases, Maple News advises diligent planning and clear communication with your local authorities and a qualified immigration professional to keep your Express Entry journey on track while navigating China’s varying requirements.