One of several phrases can appear in the remarks section of a NBI Police Clearance Certificate. “No record on file” is noted when the individual has never obtained a Certificate; “No derogatory record” is indicated on Certificate renewals; and “With derogatory record” is indicated for those applicants who do have an incident with the law. If an applicant’s certificate indicates “No record on file, or “No derogatory record,” an official letter from the NBI is not required to obtain a Canadian visa, nor will the NBI issue such a letter. Only those applicants who are issued clearances that state “No pending case” or “No criminal” record are required to obtain an official explanation letter prior to sending your application to CIC/IRCC.