Choosing the right fingerprinting method can be confusing, especially when an employer, government agency, immigration authority, or foreign organization asks for fingerprints. Digital fingerprinting and ink fingerprinting both have important uses, but the right option depends on the requirements of the organization requesting your fingerprints.

At F.I.P.S. (Fingerprints, Identifications and Pardons Services), we provide professional digital and ink fingerprinting services for Canadian and international applications.

This guide explains the differences between digital and ink fingerprinting, when each method is used, and how to choose the right option for your application.

What Is Digital Fingerprinting?

Digital fingerprinting uses an electronic scanner to capture your fingerprints directly from your fingers. The fingerprint images are converted into digital biometric information that can be securely submitted electronically when the application and receiving authority support electronic submission.

For Canadian civil fingerprint transactions, RCMP-accredited private fingerprinting companies can electronically submit eligible transactions to the RCMP’s Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS).

Digital fingerprinting is commonly used for:

• RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks
• Immigration applications
• Canadian citizenship applications
• Record Suspensions
• Employment screening
• Professional licensing
• U.S. Entry Waiver applications
• Other official identity-verification requirements

What Is Ink Fingerprinting?

Ink fingerprinting is the traditional method of recording fingerprints on a paper fingerprint card.

A technician applies ink to the fingers and carefully rolls each finger to create a fingerprint impression on the required card.

Although digital fingerprinting is widely used for Canadian applications, ink fingerprinting remains important for certain international applications where the receiving organization specifically requires a physical fingerprint card.

For example, a foreign government, immigration authority, or organization may provide a specific fingerprint form that must be completed using ink.

Digital vs. Ink Fingerprinting: Key Differences

Which Is Better: Digital or Ink Fingerprinting?

There is no single method that is better for every application.

Digital fingerprinting is generally the better choice when the receiving authority accepts electronic fingerprints. It provides efficient electronic capture and can reduce delays associated with mailing physical fingerprint cards.

Ink fingerprinting is the right choice when the requesting organization specifically requires a paper fingerprint card or a particular fingerprint form.

The most important rule is:

Always follow the fingerprinting instructions provided by the organization requesting your fingerprints.

Using the wrong fingerprinting method could result in your application being delayed or rejected.

Advantages of Digital Fingerprinting

1. Electronic Submission

For eligible Canadian civil fingerprint transactions, digital fingerprints can be submitted electronically through an accredited fingerprinting provider.

2. Improved Efficiency

Digital capture eliminates the need to physically mail a fingerprint card for applications that support electronic submission.

3. High-Quality Fingerprint Images

Electronic scanners are designed to capture detailed fingerprint images, helping technicians identify and correct quality issues during the appointment.

4. Secure Processing

Electronic fingerprint transactions can be securely transmitted through authorized systems when the application qualifies for electronic submission.

5. Convenient for Canadian Applications

Digital fingerprinting is commonly used for RCMP fingerprint-based criminal record checks and other Canadian government requirements.

Advantages of Ink Fingerprinting

Ink fingerprinting remains useful when an application specifically requires a physical fingerprint card.

Common Situations Include:

• Foreign visa applications
• International employment
• Foreign police certificates
• FBI fingerprint cards
• Applications requiring a specific fingerprint form
• International licensing or immigration requirements

Some organizations will not accept digitally captured fingerprints, so checking the application instructions before your appointment is essential.

Can Ink Fingerprints Be Scanned?

Yes. Cardscan technology can be used to electronically capture fingerprint impressions that have already been recorded on a paper fingerprint card.

The RCMP identifies Cardscan as an electronic fingerprint capture device that uses a flatbed scanner to capture previously inked fingerprint impressions from a fingerprint card.

However, whether scanned fingerprints can be used for your specific application depends on the requirements of the receiving authority.

Digital Fingerprinting for RCMP Criminal Record Checks

If you need an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check, fingerprint-based verification is used to confirm your identity.

An RCMP-accredited fingerprinting company can capture your fingerprints electronically and submit eligible civil fingerprint transactions to CCRTIS.

This is different from a standard name-based Criminal Record Check.

When Should You Choose Ink Fingerprinting?

Choose ink fingerprinting when your application instructions specifically say that you need:

• An ink fingerprint card
• Rolled fingerprints
• A specific foreign government fingerprint form
• An FBI fingerprint card
• Original fingerprints on paper

Do not assume that digital fingerprints will be accepted simply because they are faster or more convenient.

What Identification Do You Need?

Identification requirements depend on the application and provider.

Generally, you should be prepared to provide valid government-issued identification, such as:

• Passport
• Driver’s Licence
• Permanent Resident Card
• Provincial Photo ID
• Other government-issued identification

If the requesting organization has provided a fingerprint request letter or specific form, bring it with you.

Why Choose F.I.P.S.?

F.I.P.S. provides professional fingerprinting and identity verification services for Canadian and international applications.

Our services include:

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

Our experienced team can help you understand which fingerprinting method is appropriate based on the requirements provided by the organization requesting your fingerprints.

F.I.P.S. serves clients throughout Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, North York, Scarborough, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, and the Greater Toronto Area.