RCMP Fingerprint-Based Certified Criminal Record Checks for International Use
A fingerprint-based certified criminal record check in Canada is the most reliable and widely accepted method for verifying an individual’s criminal record. This process, overseen by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), utilizes fingerprints to search the national repository of criminal records, ensuring unmatched accuracy and security. These checks are recognized internationally for various purposes, such as immigration, employment, visas, and professional licensing.
Why Fingerprint-Based Checks are Widely Accepted Internationally
Fingerprint-based RCMP checks are widely trusted because they eliminate the risk of errors commonly associated with name-based searches. To be valid internationally, these checks may require further steps:
- Apostille Certification: Since Canada joined the Hague Apostille Convention, documents intended for Hague member countries can now be Apostilled. This simplifies international recognition by ensuring the document meets standardized authentication protocols.
- Authentication and Legalization: For non-Hague countries, the traditional two-step process of authentication (by Global Affairs Canada or provincially) and legalization (by the destination country's embassy or consulate) is required.
Steps to Obtain an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check for International Use
Global Document Solutions is thrilled to announce that, as a proud new ClearNeed affiliate, we are actively undergoing the rigorous process to become an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting service. In the meantime, we’re excited to recommend our trusted ClearNeed affiliates across Canada, who provide a seamless and efficient process for obtaining certified RCMP criminal record checks through cutting-edge digital fingerprinting technology.
Digital fingerprinting is the gold standard for speed, accuracy, and security, ensuring your record check is handled with precision. To celebrate this partnership, we’re offering an exclusive incentive: if you choose ClearNeed for your fingerprinting services and use our Apostille or Authentication and Legalization services, we’ll cover the $25 RCMP fee for you.
Here's how to get started:
- Fill out the Quote Request Form or call 1-800-336-1132 Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm EST: Let us know which country you intend to use the RCMP check in. This helps us guide you on any additional steps or costs required to make your check internationally valid.
- Locate a ClearNeed Location or any RCMP Accredited Service: Visit one of the ClearNeed’s affiliates across Canada to access digital fingerprinting services. These locations are equipped with cutting-edge technology to capture fingerprints accurately. If there isn’t a ClearNeed affiliate nearby or you find it more convenient, simply locate the nearest RCMP-accredited fingerprinting service.
- Submit Digital Fingerprints: Your fingerprints are securely submitted to the RCMP for processing. Let them know that you want the results sent to Global Document Solutions at our Ottawa Headquarters.
- We Receive Your Certified Check: Once processed, the RCMP issues a certified criminal record check usually in 3 business days.
- International Certification Takes Place: For Hague countries, Global Document Solutions will facilitate Apostille certification. For non-Hague countries, we will manage the authentication and legalization process, ensuring your RCMP check is valid for use abroad.
- Ready for Shipping Worldwide: Once your RCMP-certified criminal record check is authenticated for international use, we offer reliable domestic and international shipping solutions. Just let us know the destination!
Why Choose Global Document Solutions?
Global Document Solutions is Canada’s first and foremost leader in international document certification, with over three decades of unparalleled experience. The company specializes in providing seamless solutions for Apostille certification, authentication, and legalization. Its extensive expertise and global network make it the ideal choice for handling complex documentation requirements.
RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check FAQ's
The processing time for an RCMP-certified criminal record check is typically 3 business days or less if no record is found. However, if a record is found, it may take 1 to 4 months to receive the results. Please note that this timeframe does not include mailing to the applicant or a third party.
Acceptable Government ID
- Driver’s Licence
- Passport
- Indian Status Card
- Citizenship Card
- Permanent Resident Card
- Firearms Licence
- Student Identity Card
- Federal, provincial, municipal Identification Card
- Military Identification Card
- Work Permit
The cost of digital fingerprinting varies by service provider, with our clients reporting prices starting at $40; however, you should expect to pay at least $50 or more. The process typically takes about 10 minutes, though the exact duration may vary depending on the service provider.
The RCMP processing fee for each criminal record check is $25 CAD. This fee is collected by the accredited fingerprinting company handling your fingerprints. If you are using a ClearNeed affiliate, we cover this fee for you. Simply inform your personal Global Document Solutions agent, and we will deduct the fee from your international certification service charges.
Fingerprint submissions for civil screening are retained by the Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS) for up to 90 days, after which they are permanently destroyed once the search is complete. These fingerprints are not stored in the RCMP National Repository of Criminal Records and cannot be accessed for future use.
