Whether you’re applying for Canadian citizenship, permanent residence, a new job, or a Record Suspension, you may be asked to complete RCMP digital fingerprinting. Many people are unsure what this process involves, why fingerprints are required, or where they should go to have them taken.

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

This guide explains what RCMP digital fingerprinting is, who needs it, and why it has become the preferred method of identity verification in Canada.

What Is RCMP Digital Fingerprinting?

RCMP digital fingerprinting is an electronic biometric identification process used to verify a person’s identity through their fingerprints.

Unlike traditional ink fingerprinting, digital fingerprinting captures fingerprints using advanced electronic scanners. The fingerprints are then securely transmitted through an RCMP-accredited agency to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for processing.

Because fingerprints are unique to every individual, digital fingerprinting provides the most accurate method of confirming identity and conducting certified criminal record checks.

How Does RCMP Digital Fingerprinting Work?

The process is simple and typically takes only a few minutes.

Step 1: Identity Verification

A fingerprint technician verifies your identity using valid government-issued identification.

Step 2: Digital Fingerprint Capture

Your fingerprints are captured electronically using a Live Scan fingerprint system.

Step 3: Secure Submission

The fingerprints are securely transmitted to the RCMP through authorized electronic systems.

Step 4: Processing

The RCMP processes the fingerprints and issues the results according to the requirements of the requesting organization.

Electronic submission reduces delays and improves accuracy compared to traditional ink fingerprinting.

Who Needs RCMP Digital Fingerprinting?

RCMP digital fingerprinting is required for many official purposes.

Immigration Applications

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request fingerprint-based identity verification for:

• Permanent Residence
• Work Permits
• Study Permits
• Express Entry Applications
• Sponsorship Applications

Canadian Citizenship

Applicants may be asked to provide fingerprints to confirm identity and complete citizenship processing.

Employment Background Checks

Many employers require RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks for positions involving:

• Healthcare
• Education
• Government
• Financial Services
• Security
• Law Enforcement

Professional Licensing

Many regulatory organizations require fingerprint-based criminal record verification before issuing licences.

Record Suspensions (Pardons)

Applicants seeking a Record Suspension usually require an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check obtained through digital fingerprinting.

U.S. Entry Waivers

Individuals applying for a U.S. Entry Waiver  need fingerprint-based criminal record documentation.

International Travel and Visa Applications

Many foreign governments require certified fingerprint records when processing visa and immigration applications.

Why Is Digital Fingerprinting Better Than Ink Fingerprinting?

Although ink fingerprinting is still accepted for certain international applications, digital fingerprinting has become the preferred method in Canada.

Greater Accuracy

Electronic scanners capture clearer fingerprint images than traditional ink methods.

Faster Processing

Digital submissions are transmitted electronically, reducing processing time.

Secure Transmission

Fingerprint information is securely submitted through RCMP-approved systems.

Reduced Risk of Rejection

Digital fingerprints are less likely to be rejected because of poor image quality.

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 name-based criminal record checks, fingerprint-based checks provide positive identity verification and are commonly required for immigration, citizenship, employment, and legal applications.

What Identification Do I Need?

Applicants generally need two pieces of valid government-issued identification, including at least one photo ID.

Examples include:

• Passport
• Driver’s Licence
• Permanent Resident Card
• Provincial Photo ID Card
• Government-issued Employee ID

Requirements may vary depending on the requesting organization.

How Long Does RCMP Digital Fingerprinting Take?

The fingerprinting appointment itself usually takes less than 15 minutes.

Overall processing times depend on:

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

Digital submission helps reduce unnecessary delays.

Why Choose F.I.P.S.?

Choosing an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency helps ensure your fingerprints are captured correctly the first time.

F.I.P.S. has over 30 years of experience providing fingerprinting and identity verification services.

Our Services Include

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

Why Clients Trust F.I.P.S.

• RCMP-Accredited Agency
• Over 30 Years of Experience
• Secure Electronic Submission
• Walk-In Service Available
• Professional and Experienced Staff
• Fast and Accurate Processing
• Convenient GTA Locations

We proudly serve clients throughout Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, North York, Scarborough, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, and the Greater Toronto Area.