How to Provide Fingerprints and Obtain an RCMP Criminal Record Check in Canada

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) criminal record check is an official document used for various purposes, including employment, immigration, adoption, and volunteering. It involves searching the National Repository of Criminal Records to determine whether an individual has a criminal history.

This guide explains how to provide fingerprints and obtain an RCMP criminal record check, either within Canada or while living abroad.

Understanding the RCMP Criminal Record Check

The RCMP criminal record check can be either name-based or fingerprint-based. While a name-based check is sufficient in some cases, fingerprint-based checks are the most accurate. This method minimizes false matches caused by name similarities or identity theft.

Fingerprinting is often required for specific circumstances, such as:

● Employment: Jobs in sensitive sectors, including government positions, healthcare, and child services, may require a fingerprint-based check.
● Immigration and Citizenship: Fingerprints may be necessary for individuals applying for Canadian residency, citizenship, or work permits.
● Adoption: Both domestic and international adoption processes often involve a criminal record check.
● Volunteer Positions: Organizations working with vulnerable populations may require this additional security measure.

Steps to Obtain an RCMP Criminal Record Check in Canada

If you are in Canada and need an RCMP criminal record check, here is the detailed process:

1. Understand the Requirements

Confirm whether a fingerprint-based check is necessary. Sometimes, a name-based check suffices. The requesting organization will typically specify the type of check required.

2. Select a Service Provider

You can get fingerprinting services through:

● Local Police Services: Some police stations offer fingerprinting services in rural areas in Canada, while in larger cities like Toronto and Ottawa you must go to an agency accredited by the RCMP
● Accredited Fingerprinting Companies: Private agencies accredited by the RCMP can capture and submit fingerprints electronically.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Two pieces of valid government-issued identification are necessary. At least one should include a photograph. Examples of acceptable IDs include Passports, Driver’s licenses, National ID Cards, and a birth certificate as a secondary piece of id. Some provinces will accept health cards. Social insurance cards are not acceptable.

4. Fingerprinting Process

Providers now rely on electronic fingerprinting. During your appointment, you will need to provide identification, confirm the accuracy of your personal details, and allow the provider to take your photograph and capture your fingerprints using a digital scanner. You will also need to complete an RCMP consent form.

5. Pay Fees

Fingerprint agencies will charge a base fee. Some types of fingerprints, such as those for visas or private employment, also incur an additional $25 RCMP fee for each criminal record check. Payments are generally accepted via credit card, debit, or cash.

6. Await Results

Processing times depend on whether your fingerprints match an existing record:
No Match Found: Results are usually processed within three business days plus mailing time, which can take 10 business days.
Possible Match: If further investigation is needed, processing may take up to 120 business days.
Results are mailed to the address you provide.

Obtaining an RCMP Criminal Record Check Outside of Canada: Card Scan

For individuals living abroad, the process involves additional steps since electronic fingerprint submission directly to the RCMP is not available outside Canada.

● To get your fingerprints taken, visit a trusted local agency such as a police department, embassy, consulate, or private fingerprinting company. Ensure they use a standard fingerprint form that includes all 10 fingers rolled, all ten fingers flat, your full name, date of birth, date of fingerprinting, gender, address, and the agency’s contact details.
● Next, send the fingerprint card to an RCMP-accredited agency in Canada for digitization and electronic submission to the RCMP, which is called Card Scan.
● Include additional documentation as required, such as copies of government-issued identification, photographs and completed application and consent forms specified by the agency.
● Pay the applicable fees, which may include the RCMP processing fee, and service charges from the Canadian agency.
● Finally, the results will be mailed to the address provided. Be aware of potential delays due to international postal services. Some application types limit where the results can be sent.

Are There Any Special Considerations You Need to Know?

Yes! When filing for an RCMP criminal background check, keep these things in mind:

1. Vulnerable Sector Checks – You Must go to Local Police

A vulnerable sector check is a detailed background check required for positions involving vulnerable individuals, such as children or the elderly. This check includes a search for pardoned sex offences and can only be conducted by local police services, not private fingerprinting companies. Additional documents, such as proof of the position or a letter from the requesting organization, may be required. As part of a vulnerable sector check, the local police may send you to an accredited agency for fingerprinting, but you must always begin the process by applying with local police. If fingerprinting is required, the results must usually go directly to the local police, and likely will require your file or application number.

2. Processing Delays

To avoid processing delays, ensure all documents are accurate and complete. Delays may still occur due to high application volumes, poor fingerprint quality, errors in submitted information, or potential matches requiring manual verification. If delays arise, contact the RCMP to inquire about the status of your application.

Want a Solution That You Can Trust? Contact Red Seal Notary!

Obtaining a criminal background check in Canada is straightforward when you understand the requirements and follow the necessary steps. Whether you are in Canada or abroad, ensuring the accuracy of your application and choosing the right service provider can save time and avoid delays.

If you need professional assistance with fingerprinting or navigating the RCMP criminal record check process, Red Seal Notary is here to help. With experienced staff and comprehensive services, Red Seal Notary simplifies the process for you. Contact us today to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Always Need Fingerprinting for a Police Check?

No, fingerprinting is only required if a name-based check results in potential matches or if the organization specifically requests a fingerprint-based check.

Can I Submit My Fingerprints Directly to the RCMP?

No, only accredited agencies and service providers can submit fingerprints to the RCMP.

How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

Results are typically received in the mail in approximately two weeks for applicants without a criminal record in Canada.

Are There Fee Waivers for Volunteers?

Yes, the RCMP waives their $25 fee for volunteers with a letter from the volunteer organization confirming they are receiving no compensation, but service provider fees usually still apply.

Can I Use Results for Multiple Purposes?

Normally a new application is required due to specific guidelines from requesting organizations. However you may be able to use the same check for multiple organizations with the same purpose – such as when applying for jobs.

How Can Red Seal Notary Help?

As an RCMP-accredited agency, Red Seal Notary offers fast, reliable, and secure electronic fingerprinting solutions to provide certified criminal record checks for Canada. You can attend one of our walk-in locations in Toronto, Mississauga or Ottawa with two pieces of valid government-issued identification and our knowledgeable fingerprint technicians will be happy to assist you.

If you require an RCMP fingerprint check from outside Canada, Red Seal Notary is also accredited to provide Card Scan services.

Please visit our website at www.RedSealNotary.com or contact our helpful call center at 1-888-922-7325 for more information about our fingerprinting and Card Scan services. Red Seal Notary will ensure a seamless experience tailored to your needs.