Access to Information Act or Privacy Act (5$ vs Free)?

[tormenta]

I would like to request information about my citizenship application. I noticed that there are two ways to request the information: through the Access to Information Act, which costs 5$, or the Privacy Act, which is free. I am wondering what's the difference between these two, and whether applying through the Privacy Act will reveal less information than if I apply through the Access to Information Act. Does anybody have any experience with this? Also, I would appreciate any tips regarding what type of information to request.

Thank you.

 

[wayne_vega]

Try them both.
Or what, $5 is too much to ask?

 

[nguyentu2001]

I would like to request information about my citizenship application. I noticed that there are two ways to request the information: through the Access to Information Act, which costs 5$, or the Privacy Act, which is free. I am wondering what's the difference between these two, and whether applying through the Privacy Act will reveal less information than if I apply through the Access to Information Act. Does anybody have any experience with this? Also, I would appreciate any tips regarding what type of information to request.

Thank you.

same

 

[farrous13]

He could. But that wasn't the question. Has anyone seen a difference in both reports?

Try them both.
Or what, $5 is too much to ask?

 

[farrous13]

So different layout/format and timeline? This doesn't justify the $5.

same

 

[tormenta]

Try them both.
Or what, $5 is too much to ask?

I have no problem paying the 5$, but I remember reading in a previous thread that the information gained through the privacy act is the same. That's why I wanted feedback from someone who has requested it through either of these mechanisms, which it would appear you have not done so.

I would also like feedback on the second aspect of my question: what should I be requesting? Does it make sense to request a paper copy of everything (will they just send me photocopies of my passports).

 

[tormenta]

same

Sorry, nguyentu2001, does that mean that the information is indeed the same? Just want to confirm.

 

[eileenf]

I ordered 1 GCMS reports through ATI ($5)
as well as a GCMS report and physical file report through the Privacy Act one year later. (free)

Either Act can be used and will produce the same information (as long as you are only requesting your personal info). Note also that, under the Privacy Act, as long as you are in Canada and requesting info about yourself, you do not have to send a copy of your PR card, etc.

 

[tormenta]

I ordered 1 GCMS reports through ATI ($5)
as well as a GCMS report and physical file report through the Privacy Act. (free)

Either Act can be used and will produce the same information (as long as you are only requesting your personal info). Note also that, under the Privacy Act, as long as you are in Canada and requesting info about yourself, you do not have to send a copy of your PR card, etc.

Thanks, Eileen; this is very helpful!

 

[GBG]

Hi! I badly needed my GCMS report, I asked my cousin who is in Canada to request it for me since I am not a citizen, PR or currently staying in Canada and I gave her my consent. I wonder if she'll receive the information requested because she made the request through the Privacy Act instead of the Access to Information Act.. Would they release the information regardless of what act the request was made? Or do I need to ask her make a new request under the Access to Information Act? Please anyone? I need some advise.. Thanks!

 

[alphazip]

If you want information about yourself, you would make the request under the Privacy Act, and it is free of charge. If you wish to request information on someone else, you would do it through the Access to Information Act, and the other person must give consent; the charge is $5. The information provided under either act is the same.

Years ago, before I knew of the Privacy Act, I made a request under the ATI Act and enclosed a cheque for $5. The cheque was returned to me with the report, along with a letter stating that the request was being filled under the Privacy Act. If your cousin included your consent and a $5 payment, I don't think there will be a problem. If there was no payment, the request may not be filled.

As to what to request, it depends what you're looking for. A common request is a record of entries into Canada from the CBSA.