How to Obtain an RCMP Police Clearance Certificate for German Citizenship

If you are a Canadian applying for German citizenship, obtaining an RCMP Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), commonly referred to as a criminal record check, is an essential step. With the right guidance, the process is simple and manageable. This step-by-step guide outlines the procedure, emphasizing the reliable services provided by Global Document Solutions, a trusted leader in document certification.

Why is the RCMP PCC Required for German Citizenship?

German authorities require a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) to verify that applicants for citizenship do not have a criminal record. The RCMP PCC is the official document used by Canadian citizens to fulfill this requirement.

When is the RCMP PCC Needed for German Citizenship?

  • Initial Citizenship Application: A PCC is required when applying for German naturalization.
  • Residence Permit or Long-Term Stays: If you are applying for a residence permit as a precursor to citizenship, a PCC may be required.
  • Family Reunification: A PCC may also be necessary for family-based applications.

Steps for Obtaining an RCMP PCC for German Citizenship

Step 1: Fingerprinting

In Canada:

  • Visit a ClearNeed affiliate or an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting service.
  • Provide government-issued photo identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
  • Digital fingerprinting is preferred, ensuring faster processing.

In Germany:

If you are in Germany, you must have your fingerprints taken at a local police station or an authorized private agency. Since there are no RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agencies in Germany, you will need to send inked fingerprint cards to an RCMP-accredited company in Canada for digital conversion and submission.

Local Fingerprinting Services in Germany:
  • Landesamt fur Burger-und
    Ordnungsangelegenheiten
    Friedrichstr 219
    Berlin 10969
    Germany
  • Landeskriminalamt Hamburg
    LKA 37
    Daktyloskopie und Personenfestststellung
    Bruno-Georges-Plats 1 22207
    Hamburg
    Germany 
  • Polizeiinspektion Germering
    Waldstrasse 32
    82110 Germering
    Germany
  • State Office for Civil and Regulatory Affairs Friedrichstraße 219
    10969 Berlin
    Germany
    Website
  • Polizeipräsidium Bonn
    Direktion Kriminalität
    Kriminalkommissariat 31
    Konigswinter Straße 500
    53227 Bonn
    Germany
  • Landeskriminalamt Hamburg LKA 26ED
    Department of Forensic Science  
    BrunoGeorges-Platz 1 22297 Hamburg
    Germany
    Ph: +49 40 428673000
  • Polizeipräsidiums Südosthessen
    Kriminaldirektion-ZK42
    Geleitsstraße 124 63067
    Offenbach
    Germany
    Ph: 0691 8098 3428 3422
  • Polizeirevier Rochlitz
    Friedrich-August-Straße 2a
    09306 Rochlitz
    Germany
    Ph: +49 3737 7890

What to Bring for Fingerprinting in Germany

  • Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license).
  • RCMP Fingerprint Card (C-216C), or an internationally recognized fingerprint card.
  • Ensure that fingerprints are taken using black ink and include an official signature and stamp.
  • If no official stamp or signature is provided, get the fingerprints authenticated by a notary public, such as:
    • Dr. Hannes Kluhs, Notary Public
      Königsallee 92a, 40212 Düsseldorf, Germany

Step 2: Submitting Fingerprints to the RCMP

Once your fingerprints are taken, they must be submitted to the RCMP for processing. Since you are outside Canada, Global Document Solutions can facilitate this step efficiently.

Why Choose Global Document Solutions?

  • Secure Handling: Your fingerprints and documents are securely processed.
  • Speed and Accuracy: Ensuring all requirements are met to avoid delays.
  • Trusted Experts: With decades of experience in document certification and submission.

How to Submit Your Fingerprints

  1. Send Documents
    • Courier your fingerprint card and required identification documents to Global Document Solutions in Canada.
  2. Complete Required Forms
    • Global Document Solutions will guide you through completing the necessary RCMP submission forms.
  3. Pay Processing Fees
    • The RCMP charges a processing fee, and Global Document Solutions charges a service fee for handling the submission.

Step 3: Certifying Your RCMP PCC for Use in Germany

For your RCMP PCC to be valid in Germany, it must be certified according to local requirements.

Apostille Certification

  • As of 2024, Canada is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
  • Global Document Solutions will ensure your PCC is apostilled, making it valid for use in Germany.

Conclusion: Trust the Experts at Global Document Solutions

Obtaining an RCMP Police Clearance Certificate from Germany is straightforward with the right assistance. From fingerprinting to submission and certification, Global Document Solutions provides a fast, secure, and efficient service. Trust their expertise to handle your application with compliance and care.