If you need RCMP fingerprinting in Canada, one of the first questions you may have is: How long does the process take?

The answer depends on what type of fingerprinting you need, how your fingerprints are submitted, the purpose of your application, and whether the RCMP needs additional processing.

For many applicants, the actual fingerprinting appointment takes only a few minutes. However, the time required to receive an RCMP criminal record check can range from a few business days to several weeks or longer in cases requiring manual review.

The RCMP states that fingerprint-based criminal record checks can take 3 to 120 business days, depending on factors such as manual intervention, a possible match to a criminal record, or the need to clarify information with the submitting agency.

At F.I.P.S. (Fingerprints, Identifications and Pardons Services), digital fingerprints can be submitted electronically to the RCMP, helping make the process faster and more efficient.

How Long Does the Fingerprinting Appointment Take?

The fingerprinting appointment itself is usually much shorter than the overall processing time.

At F.I.P.S., the fingerprint capture process generally takes approximately 10–15 minutes, depending on the application and the quality of the fingerprints.

Digital fingerprinting uses electronic technology to capture your fingerprints and submit eligible transactions electronically to the RCMP’s Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS).

Digital fingerprint results may be processed and mailed in as little as 72 hours in many cases. However, this is not a guaranteed processing time because RCMP processing volumes and individual circumstances can affect the result.

How Long Does the RCMP Take to Process Fingerprints?

The RCMP’s official information is important when discussing processing times.

The RCMP indicates that fingerprint-based criminal record checks may take 3 to 120 business days. Faster processing may occur when there is no issue requiring additional review, while applications requiring manual intervention can take considerably longer.

Factors that can affect processing include:

• Possible criminal record matches
• Manual processing
• Incomplete or unclear information
• Additional verification
• RCMP processing volumes
• The type of application
• Clarification required from the submitting agency

Therefore, applicants should not assume that every RCMP fingerprint submission will be completed within the same timeframe.

Why Does Digital Fingerprinting Help?

Digital fingerprinting allows fingerprints to be captured electronically and, when eligible, submitted directly to the RCMP.

The RCMP authorizes accredited private fingerprinting companies to capture fingerprints for civil purposes and submit electronic transactions to CCRTIS for verification against the National Repository of Criminal Records.

Digital submission can help eliminate unnecessary delays associated with mailing physical fingerprint cards.

It can also allow fingerprint technicians to identify poor-quality fingerprints during the appointment and recapture them when necessary.

What Can Cause RCMP Fingerprinting Delays?

Although many applications are processed quickly, several factors can result in additional processing time.

1. A Possible Criminal Record Match

If information submitted with the application produces a possible match, additional verification may be necessary.

This does not necessarily mean the applicant has a criminal record. Fingerprint verification can help ensure that an individual is not incorrectly associated with another person’s record.

2. Manual Processing

Some applications require manual intervention by the RCMP.

The RCMP’s published information states that applications requiring manual intervention can take longer than straightforward submissions.

3. Incomplete Information

Incorrect or missing information can cause an application to require clarification.

Providing accurate identification and application information helps reduce avoidable delays.

4. Fingerprint Quality

Poor-quality fingerprints can create problems during processing.

Common issues include:

• Incomplete fingerprint impressions
• Poor positioning
• Excessive moisture or dryness
• Damaged fingers
• Smudged ink impressions

Experienced fingerprint technicians and modern digital equipment can help reduce fingerprint-quality problems.

How Long Does an RCMP Criminal Record Check Take?

There is no single processing time that applies to every applicant.

The RCMP currently indicates a potential processing range of 3 to 120 business days for fingerprint-based criminal record checks.

For straightforward applications, processing can be much faster. The RCMP’s 2024–25 service data reports a service standard of 3 business days or less when there is no match to a criminal record, while manual processing or a possible match can result in a longer timeframe.

This is why it is best to apply well before your employer, immigration authority, licensing organization, or government agency deadline.

How Long Does Digital Fingerprinting Take at F.I.P.S.?

F.I.P.S. provides digital fingerprinting services using electronic submission technology.

According to F.I.P.S., digital fingerprint results may be processed and mailed in as little as 72 hours in many cases. However, processing times can vary depending on RCMP volumes, the application, and individual circumstances.

The fingerprinting appointment itself is generally quick, and F.I.P.S. offers walk-in service in addition to appointments.

What Do You Need to Bring?

To avoid unnecessary delays, make sure you bring the required identification and application documents.

F.I.P.S. states that applicants need two pieces of valid government-issued identification, with at least one containing a photograph.

Examples may include:

• Passport
• Driver’s Licence
• Permanent Resident Card
• Canadian Citizenship Certificate
• Provincial Photo ID

If your employer, immigration authority, government department, or another organization gave you a fingerprint request letter or specific form, bring that documentation as well.

Who Needs RCMP Fingerprinting?

RCMP fingerprinting may be required for many different purposes, including:

• Canadian citizenship
• Permanent residence
• Immigration applications
• Employment
• Security clearances
• Professional licensing
• Record Suspensions
• U.S. Entry Waivers
• International applications
• Government-related applications

The RCMP explains that fingerprint-based criminal record checks are used when a higher level of identity verification is required.

Is RCMP Fingerprinting the Same as a Criminal Record Check?

Not exactly.

Fingerprinting is the identity-capture process.

An RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check is the criminal record verification completed using fingerprints and other identifying information.

In a typical digital process:

Fingerprint appointment → Digital fingerprint capture → Electronic submission → RCMP/CCRTIS processing → Criminal record check result

Understanding this distinction helps applicants set realistic expectations about how long the entire process will take.

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

F.I.P.S. provides professional RCMP fingerprinting and identification services throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

Services include:

• RCMP Digital Fingerprinting
• RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks
• Immigration Fingerprinting
• Citizenship Fingerprinting
• Permanent Residence Fingerprinting
• Employment Fingerprinting
• Record Suspension Fingerprinting
• U.S. Entry Waiver Fingerprinting
• Ink-and-Roll Fingerprinting
• Cardscan Services

F.I.P.S. is listed by the RCMP as an accredited private fingerprinting company authorized to provide civil fingerprinting services.

With more than 30 years of fingerprinting experience, F.I.P.S. focuses on accurate fingerprint capture, secure processing, and efficient electronic submission.