Are you applying for a foreign visa, immigrating to another country, finding a job or studying abroad? You are likely required to provide a Canadian Criminal Record Check (RCMP Criminal Record Check) for such applications. We’ve put together a list of the most common questions for 2026, clearly explained all at once!

1. What is a RCMP Criminal Record Check?

  • An official, hardcopy document issued by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Canada;
  • Used to confirm whether you have a criminal record in Canada, across all provinces and territories;
  • Also known by various names: Criminal Record Check / Criminal Background Check / Police Clearance Certificate, etc.

2. What is the RCMP Criminal Record Check used for?

Common uses include:

  • Canadian visa, immigration (PR) and citizenship applications
  • Employment in Canada or overseas
  • Overseas residency or status applications
  • Adoption and custody applications

3. Do I have to be in Canada to apply for a RCMP Criminal Record Check?

No, you do not need to be in Canada to apply for a RCMP criminal record check. You can apply even if you are abroad, in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, China, Spain, the United Kingdom, and elsewhere!

Important:

  • Applicant must provide his or her fingerprints;
  • Fingerprints can be collected outside Canada and then submitted to Canada for processing.

4. Why are my fingerprints required?

  • A name-based search alone cannot accurately verify someone’s identity;

  • Fingerprints are the only reliable way to confirm identity (especially in cases of identical names). No one’s fingerprints are the same!

The RCMP criminal record check is based on fingerprints, meaning it uses an individual’s fingerprints to match with the RCMP’s CCRTIS (Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services) database for a search of any criminal convictions.

5. How long does a RCMP Criminal Record Check take?

  • The standard processing time is 5 to 10 business days if no criminal history is found.

  • If there is a criminal record or manual review is required, it can take up to 120 business days.

6. Can the RCMP Criminal Record Check be expedited?

No, RCMP processing times cannot be expedited. It is recommended to prepare your documents and RCMP criminal record check in advance to allow sufficient time to meet your deadlines.

7. What is the difference between Electronic Fingerprints vs. Ink Fingerprints? Which one do I need?

Ink Fingerprints

  • A traditional method of fingerprinting, commonly used outside Canada;
  • Fingerprints are captured by ink and transferred onto paper;
  • Must be mailed to Canada for digitization;
  • Suitable for applicants outside

Digital (Electronic) Fingerprints

  • Often faster, can be submitted directly to the RCMP database for instant matching;
  • Clearer prints with a lower error/rejection rate;
  • Suitable for applicants inside

8. Is there an e-copy version of the RCMP Criminal Record Check?

All RCMP Criminal Record Checks are issued in paper format only. If you choose an electronic copy service, you will first receive a scanned copy of the certificate, and the original document will be mailed to you afterward.

9. How long is a RCMP Criminal Record Check valid?

The RCMP criminal record check itself does not have a fixed “expiry date.” Its validity is usually determined by the requesting organization/party (commonly 3 months, 6 months, etc.).

Have more questions about a RCMP criminal record check? Please see our website www.thefingerprintroom.com or contact us by email: contact@thefingerprintroom.com. You can also call our office at 604-447-2485 during our operation hours from Monday to Friday, 9AM to 5:30PM (except national holidays).

For domestic clients, contact us at: +1-604-447-2485

For international clients, contact us at: +1-844-447-2485

For questions or concerns, email your enquiries to: contact@thefingerprintroom.com

To book an appointment at a location near you: https://thefingerprintroom.com/book-now/

To book an appointment at Richmond, BC: https://thefingerprintroom.com/richmond-b-c/

To book an appointment at Calgary, BC: https://thefingerprintroom.com/calgary-ab-canada/