Security screening application and consent form
How to apply
In accordance with the Policy on Government Security (PGS), both the requirement for and the processing of a security screening action must be based on a specified need.
Do not initiate the completion of this security screening form unless this need has been identified by the federal government department or agency that requested you to complete it.
Pay special attention to the information requested and carefully read the instructions provided prior to completion. Certain sections apply to different types of screening. Unless otherwise instructed by the organization processing the request, you are only required to complete the sections associated to the level of screening required.
If you are uncertain if you must complete this security screening form, are unsure what level of screening is required, or to obtain more information on how to submit these forms, please contact the hiring manager or human resources contact who made the request.
Privacy statement
Please note that this form collects personal information that is protected under the provisions of the Privacy Act. The information contained in this form, once completed and shared with the requesting Government of Canada department or agency, is designated as Protected B and must be safeguarded accordingly. Any personal information provided by the applicant, which is not relevant for the level of screening, will not be retained.
The personal information collected for security screening is described in Standard personal information bank (PSU 917 (Personnel Security Screening), which is used by most Government of Canada institutions. Personal information for individuals processed by the Public Services and Procurement Canada’s (PSPC) Contract Security Program is described in PSPC PIB: PWGSC PPU 015 (Industry Personnel Clearance and Reliability Records). The information collected and retained by CSIS for security screening is described in CSIS PPU 005 and SIS PPE 815.
Completing the Government of Canada Security Screening Application and Consent Form:
Why must I complete this form?
Completing this form is required to obtain a security status or clearance with the Government of Canada. A valid security status or clearance is a condition of employment, including for contractors.
There are different types of security statuses. You need to know for which type you are applying so that you can provide all of the correct information. If you are unsure, contact the departmental official who requested your application.
Do I have to provide all the information requested?
Yes. You must provide all information that is requested for the level of security status related to the job you are applying for.
If you are unable to provide some information (for example, family contact information, a past address or a lost document), please contact the departmental official who requested your application.
The information you submit will be used to assess your reliability. Be honest when providing your information. Proactively providing your information, even if some of it may appear to be negative (such as bankruptcy or a criminal offence), will support a full evaluation of your application.
The information you provide is protected under the provisions of the Privacy Act.
How is a decision made on whether to grant or deny a security status?
Decisions are based on the following:
- the position you applied for
- the information you provide
- an assessment of the information collected from other parties such as a credit bureau
Each department makes screening decisions based on the nature of their individual operations.
Your reliability is the basic concept of security screening, which is why honesty is so important in your application.
For contractors, in most cases, decisions are made by the Industrial Security Sector of Public Services and Procurement Canada.
I was convicted of a criminal offence. Can I still obtain a security status?
Criminal convictions or personal circumstances do not necessarily automatically result in the denial of a security status with the Government of Canada:
Personal circumstances are considered in the context of all the information you provide, including extenuating circumstances. If additional information is needed, a departmental official will contact you.
A criminal offence for which a suspension has been officially granted at the time of your application will not be examined in the assessment of your application.
What if you find negative information about me?
During the screening process, negative information may be found, such as criminal activities or a difficult financial situation. If additional information is needed, a departmental official will contact you.
How will I know whether my application has been granted or denied?
You will be notified of a decision by the organization that is offering you employment. If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision:
- government employees and non-government applicants may file a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission
- non-government applicants may file an application for judicial review with the Federal Court
- National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA) will review complaints related to the denial or revocation of security clearances.
What are my responsibilities after being granted a security status?
The information you provide in this application should accurately indicate your history, up to the day that you complete the form.
After being granted a security status, you are responsible for declaring to your employer, as often as necessary, any event that may affect your reliability or loyalty to Canada. Such events can include criminal charges, convictions, and financial issues.
Contact us for help
A security screening action is only processed based on a specified need.
Federal public service employees
Contact your Chief Security Officer to obtain more information related to the security screening process.
Contractors or private sector employees
To obtain more information on the security screening process for contractors or other private sector entities, please contact the PSPC Contract Security Program
General and technical enquiries
If you experience difficulty accessing this form, please consult our help page or contact us.