Your Complete Guide to Digital Fingerprinting and Criminal Record Checks

Fingerprinting is one of the most reliable methods of identity verification available today. Whether you are applying for immigration, Canadian citizenship, employment, a Record Suspension, professional licensing, or a U.S. Entry Waiver, you may be required to provide fingerprints as part of your application.

At F.I.P.S. (Fingerprints, Identifications and Pardons Services), we provide RCMP-accredited digital fingerprinting services to individuals and organizations across Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, and the Greater Toronto Area.

With over 30 years of experience, our team helps clients complete fingerprinting requirements quickly, accurately, and securely.

What Is RCMP Fingerprinting?

RCMP fingerprinting is a biometric identity verification process that uses digital fingerprints to conduct criminal record checks through the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Fingerprints are unique to every individual and provide the highest level of identity verification available. When fingerprints are submitted through an RCMP-accredited agency, they can be compared against records maintained by the Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS) and the National Repository of Criminal Records.

RCMP fingerprinting is commonly required for immigration, citizenship, employment, security clearances, Record Suspensions, and U.S. Entry Waiver applications.

Why Are RCMP Fingerprinting Services Required?

Many government agencies, employers, and licensing bodies require fingerprint-based verification because it provides a higher level of accuracy than name-based searches.

Fingerprinting may be required for:

• Criminal Record Checks
• Immigration Applications
• Permanent Residence Applications
• Canadian Citizenship Applications
• Work Permits
• Study Permits
• Security Clearances
• Professional Licensing
• Adoption Applications
• Record Suspensions (Pardons)
• U.S. Entry Waivers
• International Travel and Visa Applications

Because fingerprints are unique, they eliminate the possibility of confusion caused by similar names or dates of birth.

What Is an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check?

An RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check is a fingerprint-based criminal record verification conducted through the RCMP’s National Repository of Criminal Records.

Unlike a name-based criminal record check, a certified check confirms identity through fingerprints and provides the highest level of criminal record verification available in Canada.

RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks are commonly requested for:

• Immigration Applications
• Canadian Citizenship
• International Employment
• Foreign Travel
• Adoption Applications
• Professional Licensing
• Record Suspension Applications
• Government Security Clearances

Digital Fingerprinting vs. Ink Fingerprinting

There are two methods of collecting fingerprints.

Digital Fingerprinting

Digital fingerprinting uses electronic scanners to capture fingerprints and submit them securely.

Benefits include:

• Faster processing
• Improved accuracy
• Secure electronic transmission
• Reduced rejection rates
• Immediate submission to authorized agencies

Digital fingerprinting is the preferred method for most Canadian applications.

Ink Fingerprinting

Ink fingerprinting involves capturing fingerprints on a fingerprint card using ink.

Although still required for certain international applications, ink fingerprinting is generally slower and more susceptible to quality issues than digital fingerprinting.

F.I.P.S. offers both digital and ink fingerprinting services depending on the requirements of the requesting organization.

Who Needs RCMP Fingerprinting Services?

Fingerprinting is commonly required for several important applications.

Immigration and Permanent Residence

Immigration authorities may request fingerprints to verify identity and criminal record information during the application process.

Canadian Citizenship

Applicants may be asked to provide fingerprints to confirm identity and support citizenship eligibility reviews.

Employment Background Checks

Employers in sectors such as healthcare, finance, government, security, and law enforcement often require fingerprint-based criminal record verification.

Professional Licensing

Many regulated professions require criminal record screening before granting licences or certifications.

Record Suspensions (Pardons)

Applicants seeking a Record Suspension typically require certified criminal record verification obtained through fingerprinting.

U.S. Entry Waivers

Individuals applying for a U.S. Entry Waiver often require fingerprint-based criminal record documentation as part of their application package.

What Identification Do I Need for Fingerprinting?

Applicants must provide valid government-issued identification.

Accepted identification may include:

• Passport
• Driver’s Licence
• Permanent Resident Card
• Provincial Photo Identification Card
• Citizenship Card
• Government-Issued Employee Identification

Requirements may vary depending on the purpose of the fingerprinting request.

How Long Does RCMP Fingerprinting Take?

The fingerprinting appointment itself usually takes only a few minutes.

However, processing times depend on several factors:

• Application type
• RCMP processing requirements
• Government agency review times
• Whether additional verification is required

Digital fingerprinting significantly reduces delays because submissions are transmitted electronically through secure systems.

In many cases, RCMP processing may be completed much faster than traditional paper-based methods.

Why Choose Digital Fingerprinting?

Digital fingerprinting has become the preferred option because it offers:

Greater Accuracy

Electronic scanners capture clear, high-quality fingerprint images.

Faster Processing

Digital submissions eliminate mailing delays associated with paper fingerprint cards.

Secure Transmission

Fingerprint information is transmitted securely through authorized government channels.

Reduced Risk of Rejection

Digital fingerprints are less likely to be rejected due to smudging or poor print quality.

Why Choose F.I.P.S. for RCMP Fingerprinting Services?

Choosing an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency helps ensure your fingerprints are captured and submitted correctly.

F.I.P.S. has been helping individuals and organizations with fingerprinting and identity verification services for more than 30 years.

Our Services Include:

• RCMP Digital Fingerprinting
• RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks
• Immigration Fingerprinting
• Citizenship Fingerprinting
• Record Suspension Fingerprinting
• U.S. Entry Waiver Fingerprinting
• Identity Verification Services
• International Fingerprinting Support

Why Clients Trust F.I.P.S.

• RCMP-Accredited Fingerprinting Agency
• Over 30 Years of Experience
• Secure Digital Submission
• Professional and Knowledgeable Staff
• Walk-In Service Available
• Fast and Accurate Processing
• Convenient GTA Locations
• Privacy and Security Focused

We proudly serve clients throughout:

• Toronto
• Brampton
• Mississauga
• North York
• Scarborough
• Vaughan
• Markham
• Richmond Hill
• Greater Toronto Area (GTA)