Level 3 Vulnerable Sector Check/Screen (VSS/VSC) & Background Attestation (BA)
Overview
As part of your Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) registration requirements, you must complete:
- A Level 3 Vulnerable Sector Check/Screen (VSS/VSC): is a detailed police background check required for individuals working in a hospital setting and involved in the direct care of vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. This includes patients of all ages, abilities, and sexes. The VSS/VSC is required to help ensure the safety and protection of those under your care.
- An annual Background Attestation (BA): A self-declaration confirming your clear criminal and immigration status is required each academic year for learners with a Level 3 VSS/VSC recorded in their POWER account.
Important: A Level 2 Criminal Record & Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) is accepted by the CPSO for licensing purposes but is NOT accepted by PGME for registration.
Who Needs a Level 3 VSS/VSC and Who Needs a BA?
All Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) learners are required to complete:
- A Level 3 Vulnerable Sector Screen/Check (VSS/VSC)
AND
- An annual Background Attestation (BA) is required after submitting a Level 3 VSS/VSC.
The specific requirement that applies to you will be displayed in your POWER account based on your learner type and legal status in Canada. If it is not correct or you have questions please contact postgrad.med@utoronto.ca.
Exceptions:
New Learner (with an International MD on a Work Permit)
- For your initial appointment only, you are exempt from submitting a Level 3 VSS/VSC report.
- You will complete a Background Attestation (BA) in lieu of the Level 3 VSS/VSC
- IMPORTANT: After your initial appointment, a Level 3 VSS/VSC will be required for any subsequent training appointments.
Special Circumstances:
Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents Living outside Canada
- A Level 3 VSS/VSC cannot be obtained from outside Canada, as a valid Canadian address and IP address are required to apply online.
- You may request an override of the Level 3 VSS/VSC requirement and, if approved, complete a Background Attestation in lieu of the Level 3 VSS/VSC
Validity
A Level 3 VSS/VSC must be issued within 6 months of the start of your upcoming appointment start date. The 5-year validity period begins once the Level 3 VSS/VSC is reviewed and entered in POWER, as long as it was issued within the required 6-month window.
Expiry
The University of Toronto recognizes the Level 3 VSS/VSC report as valid for five years from the date of issuance (with a mandatory annual background attestation), extending to the end of the academic year.
Expiry aligned with: Academic year (e.g., VSS/VSC issued July 2025 valid until June 30, 2031).
How to Apply/Order for a Level 3 VSS/VSC
If You Reside in Toronto - U of T Agency Code: 202309TPSONA9508
- Apply through Toronto Police Services
- U of T Agency Code: 202309TPSONA9508
- Select "PAID STUDENT PLACEMENT" fee category.
If You Reside Outside Toronto (Within Canada)
- Apply through your local police service using the address on your Canadian ID.
If You Are a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident Living Outside Canada
- Apply once you arrive in Canada through the local police service with your Canadian address.
Tip: Level 3 VSS/VSC processing can take 4+ months. Order as soon as possible!
Accepted vs. Not Accepted VSS/VSC Reports
✅ Accepted
- Ontario Police Department
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
- Canadian Police Departments
❌ Not Accepted
- Level 1 Criminal Record Check (CRC)
- Level 2 Criminal Record & Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)
- Third-party checks (e.g., Triton, mybackcheck.com)
- International Police Checks
- CBSA Traveler Criminality/Entry-Exit Checks
How to Submit Your Level 3 VSS/VSC report
- Upload your level 3 VSS/VSC report to the PGME Forms Site.
- If you do not receive your report within 10 business days of your appointment start date:
- Email proof of payment or processing to postgrad.med@utoronto.ca
- The PGME office will temporarily override the level 3 VSS/VSC requirement and add a background attestation to your POWER account as a temporary measure.
- Once you receive your Level 3 VSS/VSC report, upload it to the PGME Forms Site even if your training has already started or ended.
How to Complete a Background Attestation (BA) in POWER
- Log in to POWER.
- Select “VSS & Background Attestation” from the menu.
- Click “Add Attestation”.
- Read the statement carefully.
- Select either “Clear” or “Not Clear”.
- Click Submit
What If my Level 3 VSS/VSC report or BA self-declaration is "Not Clear"?
- Immediately email: adpgme@utoronto.ca and copy postgrad.med@utoronto.ca with a written explanation.
- If a criminal record is found, the case will be reviewed by an Expert Panel.
- PGME may revoke an appointment or cancel registration based on the panel’s decision.
Reminder: You must report any changes to your criminal status within 7 business days.