Access to information request process
This is an overview of the main steps in making an access to information request.
1. Request submitted
- You can submit a request for records to a government institution through the ATIP Online Request Service, by email, or by mail.
2. Request received
- The institution’s ATIP Office receives your request and may seek clarification from you.
3. Search and retrieval
- The ATIP Office sends your request to different groups in the institution that may have records relevant to your request.
- Each group searches for and retrieves relevant records.
4. Extension if needed
- The ATIP Office may require additional time to respond to your request if the search involves a large number of records, or if other institutions or third parties need to be consulted on the records.
5. Records reviewed
- The ATIP Office reviews records to ensure that the Access to Information Act is properly applied.
- You will receive an explanation if information has been redacted.
6. Records released
- The ATIP Office sends you the requested records.
- Records can be sent digitally or by mail.