Apply for Your Security Clearance
Eligibility and Requirements for Restricted Area Access
Employees whose work duties require access to restricted areas of Hamilton International must obtain the appropriate Transportation Security Clearance (TSC) from Transport Canada before applying for a Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC). Review the eligibility requirements and steps outlined below to learn more about the process and get started on your application.
Application Accuracy
Please carefully review the instructions below before your appointment. Please double check that your forms are filled out correctly and that you have all the required documents with you when you arrive for your appointment as mistakes in your application and/or missing documentation will cause processing delays.
If you are renewing your Transportation Security Clearance, it is recommended that you initiate the process at least six months before the expiry date.
The 5-Step Credentialing Process
Your Company Signing Authority is responsible for requesting, authorizing, managing and maintaining Restricted Area Identity Cards (RAICs) and keycards issued to your company’s employees. If you are unsure who your Company Signing Authority is, please contact your manager or supervisor.
To initiate the application process, your employer will upload your contact information to the Transportation Security Services site. You will then receive a link to complete your application. If required, please visit the Government of Canada’s guidance on Transportation Security Clearance applications for information on travel and out-of-country documentation requirements.
Once you have completed the required sections of the application, it is strongly recommended to select “Share to review” as this allows your Signing Authority to review your application and check for any errors before it is submitted to the Pass Control Office. This step is optional but recommended.
Upon request or termination of employment, all security items must be returned to your employer or the Pass Control Office.
As the TSC application process has transitioned to an online platform, you do not need to print your TSC application for your appointment. However, you must bring the following original documents with you:
- A hard copy of your completed Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) Application, authorized by your Company Signing Authority.
- Any required travel and out-of-country documentation. Please refer to the Government of Canada’s guidance on TSC applications for requirements.
- Original identification, as applicable below.
Applicants Born in Canada
Must present:
- Canadian birth certificate (for Quebec, only birth certificates issued after January 1994 are accepted)
- Valid Canadian passport
- Valid Canadian government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s licence
Applicants Born Outside of Canada
Must present:
- Canadian citizenship card OR valid permanent resident card and
- Valid passport
- All original out-of-country documents required for the application
- Valid Canadian government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s licence
At your pass appointment, the pass control officer will go over the following:
- TSC application which will be accessed online
- Validity of supporting documents
- Signed RAIC application form
- Completed Security Awareness Quiz
The pass control officer will be required to take your photo during the appointment for your temporary pass, as well as complete fingerprinting.
A temporary pass can be issued by the Pass Control Office in order to allow an employee to work in a restricted area, with restrictions, until Transport Canada grants a security clearance. A temporary pass is a privilege extended by Hamilton International and may be revoked at any time. Temporary Passes are valid for six months. A temporary pass may be extended at the discretion and consultation of the Pass Control office, your employer and Transport Canada.
PLEASE NOTE: A temporary pass is the only document of entitlement available for an individual who does not possess a valid RAIC or Canada Pass to access the restricted aerodrome while employed at Hamilton International. Use of visitor passes (“V” passes) in lieu of obtaining a RAIC, Canada Pass or temporary pass is strictly prohibited. Any use of visitor passes for regular employment purposes, including training, may result in significant penalties for signing authorities, individuals and companies.
Security Awareness Training and Quiz
New and renewal applicants are required to review John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport’s Security Awareness training material and complete the accompanying quiz. You must bring a printed copy of the completed test with you to your appointment.
During Transport Canada’s review process, which includes a background check, Transport Canada or the Pass Control Office may need to contact you. It is important to keep your contact information up to date and notify the Pass Control Office of any changes. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your application.
While you’re waiting for your TSC, you may need to renew your temporary pass, which is valid for six months. To request an extension, you can book an appointment or contact the Pass Control Office by email.
To apply for a RAIC, you must bring the following documents to the Pass Control Office:
- A hard copy of your completed RAIC Application that has been authorized by your Company Signing Authority.
- All security items previously issued to you by the Pass Control Office.
- A valid government issued photo ID.
In order for your RAIC to be issued, your photo will be taken and your biometrics (fingerprints and iris) will be scanned.
