IRCC Fingerprint Request Letter: What to Do When Immigration Canada Asks for Your Fingerprints

Complete 2026 Guide for Canadian Citizenship Applicants in Surrey, Delta, White Rock, and Langley

📅 Last Updated: February 2026 • ⏱️ Reading Time: 8 minutes

Did you just receive a letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) asking for your fingerprints? Don’t panic – this is actually a common and routine part of many citizenship applications. Approximately 20-30% of citizenship applicants receive this request as part of the standard verification process.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly what the letter means, what you need to do, where to go in Surrey and surrounding areas, and how to respond before your deadline expires.

⏱️ Time-Sensitive Action Required

If you received an IRCC fingerprint request letter, you typically have 30 days to respond from the date on the letter. Missing this deadline can result in your citizenship application being abandoned or significantly delayed.

📞 Call 604-825-8882

📅 Book Online Now

Understanding Your IRCC Fingerprint Request Letter

What Does the Letter Mean?

When IRCC requests fingerprints as part of your citizenship application, it means they need additional verification to confirm your identity and ensure there are no criminal record concerns. This request is issued under Sections 21 and 22 of the Citizenship Act, which gives IRCC the authority to request biometric information during the citizenship verification process.

Why Did IRCC Ask for MY Fingerprints?

There are several common reasons why you might have been selected for fingerprinting:

Name Match: Your name matches or is similar to someone in the RCMP database, and fingerprints are needed to confirm you’re not that person.
Common Name: You have a very common name (like “John Smith” or “Mohammed Ali”), and fingerprints help IRCC distinguish you from others.
Previous Travel History: You’ve lived in multiple countries or traveled extensively, requiring additional verification.
Quality Assurance: IRCC randomly selects certain applications for enhanced verification as part of quality control.
Database Flag: An automated system flagged your application for routine additional checks (not necessarily indicating any issue).
Incomplete Records: There may be gaps in your background check that fingerprints can help clarify.

Important: Receiving a fingerprint request does NOT mean IRCC suspects you of anything, nor does it mean your application is in trouble. This is a standard procedural step that many applicants go through.

What the Letter Contains

Your IRCC fingerprint request letter typically includes:

Your full name and application number
UCI (Unique Client Identifier) number
Specific instructions about submitting fingerprints
Deadline to respond (usually 30 days from the letter date)
Reference to Sections 21 and 22 of the Citizenship Act
Contact information if you have questions
Instructions for where to submit your fingerprints

The 30-Day Deadline: What You Need to Know

Understanding the Timeline

Most IRCC fingerprint request letters give you 30 days from the date on the letter (not the date you received it) to submit your fingerprints. This deadline is strict, and here’s what you need to understand:

Counting Days: The 30 days start from the date printed on the IRCC letter, which is usually several days before you actually receive it in the mail.
Processing Time: After you get fingerprinted, it typically takes 5-10 business days for the results to reach IRCC.
Recommended Action: Book your fingerprinting appointment within the first 2 weeks of receiving the letter to allow for processing time.
Weekends and Holidays: These count toward your 30 days, so don’t wait until the last minute.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

Missing the 30-day deadline can have serious consequences:

Application Abandonment: IRCC may consider your citizenship application abandoned.
Application Closure: Your file could be closed without further processing.
Significant Delays: At minimum, you’ll face substantial delays (6-12 months or more).
Need to Reapply: In some cases, you may need to start the entire citizenship application process over.
Lost Fees: Your application fees may not be refunded.

⚠️ Important Deadline Exception

If you’re overseas or have extenuating circumstances preventing you from meeting the deadline, contact IRCC immediately at 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada) to request an extension. Document everything in writing.

How to Calculate Your Deadline

Example: If your letter is dated January 15, 2026, your deadline is February 14, 2026. Even if you received the letter on January 20, the countdown started on January 15.

Pro Tip: We recommend getting your fingerprints done within 7-10 days of receiving the letter to ensure IRCC receives them well before your deadline.

Where to Get Your Fingerprints Done in Surrey and Surrounding Areas

RCMP Accredited Agencies vs. Service Canada

For IRCC citizenship fingerprint requests, you have two main options:

Option 1: RCMP Accredited Private Agency (RECOMMENDED)

Advantages:

✅ Same-day and walk-in appointments available
✅ Evening and weekend hours (Mon-Sat until 7 PM)
✅ Fast processing (10-15 minutes in-office)
✅ Digital fingerprinting technology (higher quality, fewer rejections)
✅ Experienced staff familiar with IRCC requirements
✅ Results submitted directly to RCMP/IRCC (5-10 business days)
✅ Copy provided for your records

Surrey Fingerprint Company:

📍 Address: 112 – 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4
📞 Phone: 604-825-8882
⏰ Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
💰 Cost: $60 + tax (includes submission to IRCC)
🚗 Ample free parking available
🚇 Near 120 Street SkyTrain Station

Option 2: Service Canada

Considerations:

⚠️ Appointment required (can be 2-4 weeks wait time)
⚠️ Limited hours (weekdays only, typically 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM)
⚠️ Longer in-office time (30-60 minutes)
⚠️ Often located far from Surrey residents
✅ No fee for the service

When time is critical (which it usually is with a 30-day deadline), an accredited private agency is strongly recommended.

Serving All Nearby Cities

We’re conveniently located to serve residents from:

Surrey: All areas including Central, Guildford, Fleetwood, Newton, Cloverdale, South Surrey
Delta: North Delta, Ladner, Tsawwassen (10 mins away)
White Rock: 15 mins from our office
Langley: City & Township, Willoughby, Walnut Grove (20 mins)
Richmond: 25 mins via Hwy 99
Burnaby: 30 mins via Hwy 1
New Westminster: 25 mins
Coquitlam: 35 mins

Step-by-Step Process: What to Expect

Step 1: Book Your Appointment

Online Booking: Book here – select “Immigration Fingerprints”
Phone: Call 604-825-8882 for immediate booking
Walk-in: Same-day service available during business hours

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Bring the following to your appointment:

✅ Original IRCC fingerprint request letter (the actual letter you received)
✅ Two pieces of valid government-issued ID:
- Primary (with photo): Passport, driver’s license, BC ID card, PR card, or citizenship card
- Secondary: Birth certificate, citizenship certificate, SIN card, work/study permit
✅ Your UCI number and application number (on your IRCC letter)
✅ Payment: Cash, debit, or credit card accepted

Important: Both pieces of ID must show your current legal name and date of birth. If you changed your name, bring documentation of the name change.

Step 3: Visit Our Office

Your appointment will take approximately 10-15 minutes:

Verification: We verify your identity and review your IRCC letter
Digital Fingerprinting: We capture all 10 fingerprints using advanced digital scanning technology
Quality Check: We ensure fingerprints meet RCMP/IRCC standards (clear, complete, no smudging)
Documentation: We record all necessary information for IRCC submission
Receipt: You receive a copy for your records

Step 4: Submission to IRCC

We handle the submission process:

Fingerprints are electronically submitted to RCMP for processing
RCMP conducts the background check against their database
Results are sent directly to IRCC (not to you)
Typical processing time: 5-10 business days

Step 5: IRCC Continues Processing Your Application

Once IRCC receives your fingerprint results:

Your citizenship application continues normal processing
You should see movement in your IRCC online account within 2-3 weeks
IRCC will contact you if they need anything else
You’ll eventually receive an invitation to the citizenship test and ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much does IRCC citizenship fingerprinting cost?

At Surrey Fingerprint Company, the cost is $60 + tax. This includes the digital fingerprinting service and electronic submission to RCMP/IRCC. Service Canada offers fingerprinting for free, but with longer wait times and limited availability.

2. Will IRCC notify me when they receive my fingerprints?

IRCC typically does not send a confirmation email when they receive fingerprints. However, you should see an update in your IRCC online account (ECAS or the new tracker) within 2-3 weeks indicating “background check in progress” or similar status. If you don’t see any update after 3 weeks, contact IRCC.

3. Can I mail or email my fingerprints to IRCC?

No. For citizenship applications, fingerprints must be submitted electronically through an RCMP accredited agency. IRCC does not accept fingerprints by mail or email for security and quality reasons.

4. What if my fingerprints are rejected for poor quality?

Digital fingerprinting (which we use) has a rejection rate of less than 1% compared to 15-20% for ink-and-roll methods. If fingerprints are rejected, we’ll redo them at no additional charge. This is extremely rare with digital technology.

5. I’m overseas – can I get fingerprints done outside Canada?

Yes, but it’s complicated. You’ll need to find an accredited agency or police service in your country that can provide fingerprints in a format IRCC accepts (usually FBI-standard digital fingerprints). Contact IRCC immediately to explain your situation and request an extension. It’s strongly recommended to return to Canada if possible.

6. Do my children need fingerprints too?

Children under 14 are generally not required to provide fingerprints for citizenship applications. However, if IRCC specifically requests it in writing, you must comply. Children 14-17 may be requested to provide fingerprints in some cases.

7. I have a criminal record – will this affect my citizenship?

Not necessarily. Minor convictions or old convictions may not affect your citizenship eligibility. However, serious crimes, recent convictions, or being under a removal order can affect your application. Consult an immigration lawyer if you have concerns. Important: You must still comply with the fingerprint request even if you have a record.

8. How long after submitting fingerprints will I get my citizenship?

The fingerprint check itself takes 5-10 business days. However, overall citizenship processing times in 2026 range from 10-27 months depending on your local office. Fingerprints are just one step in the process. Check current processing times at canada.ca.

9. Can I request an extension on the 30-day deadline?

Yes, but only for valid reasons (medical emergency, overseas travel, natural disaster, etc.). Contact IRCC immediately at 1-888-242-2100 and explain your situation. Have supporting documentation ready. Do not wait until the deadline has passed – request an extension as soon as you know you might need one.

10. What’s the difference between RCMP fingerprints and IRCC fingerprints?

They’re the same process and technology. “RCMP fingerprints” refers to the fact that fingerprints are processed through the RCMP Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS) database. For IRCC citizenship applications, the results go from RCMP to IRCC. The term “IRCC fingerprints” just means fingerprints requested by IRCC for immigration purposes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

The #1 mistake applicants make is procrastinating. Processing takes time, and unexpected issues can arise (like needing to redo fingerprints). Book your appointment within 7-10 days of receiving the letter.

❌ Don’t Go to a Non-Accredited Agency

Only RCMP accredited agencies can submit fingerprints for IRCC purposes. Using a non-accredited provider will result in rejection and wasted time and money.

❌ Don’t Forget Your IRCC Letter

Your fingerprint request letter contains critical information (UCI, application number) needed for proper submission. Without it, we cannot process your fingerprints.

❌ Don’t Assume It’s Optional

The fingerprint request is mandatory. Ignoring it or thinking it will “go away” will result in your application being abandoned.

❌ Don’t Use Ink-and-Roll Fingerprinting

For IRCC citizenship, electronic/digital fingerprints are required. Old-style ink-and-roll has much higher rejection rates and is not recommended.

What Happens After You Submit Fingerprints?

The Background Check Process

Once your fingerprints are submitted:

RCMP Database Search (1-3 days): Your fingerprints are compared against the RCMP Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services database
Results Generation (1-2 days): If there are no matches, a “no criminal record” result is generated. If there’s a match, additional verification occurs
Transmission to IRCC (1-2 days): Results are electronically sent to IRCC
IRCC Review (1-3 weeks): IRCC reviews the results and updates your file
Continued Processing: Your citizenship application moves forward in the queue

Checking Your Application Status

You can monitor your application status through:

IRCC Online Tracker: The new permanent residence and citizenship tracker (recommended)
ECAS (Electronic Client Application Status): The older system (being phased out)
IRCC Contact Centre: 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada) if you have urgent concerns

Timeline After Fingerprints

While every case is different, here’s a general timeline:

Week 1-2: Fingerprints processed by RCMP, sent to IRCC
Week 2-4: IRCC updates your file (background check in progress)
Month 2-6: Background check complete, file moves to next stage
Month 6-18: Citizenship test invitation (if applicable)
Month 12-24: Citizenship ceremony invitation

Note: These are approximate timelines. Some cases move faster, others slower depending on complexity, local office workload, and individual circumstances.

Success Stories from Surrey Fingerprint Company

“I received my IRCC fingerprint letter on a Monday with only 18 days left to respond. I panicked! Called Surrey Fingerprint Company and they got me in the same day. The whole process took 12 minutes. Two weeks later, I could see in my IRCC tracker that they received the results. Thank you for the fast, professional service!”

– Priya S., Delta BC

“After waiting 14 months for my citizenship application to process, I got the fingerprint request letter. I was worried it meant something was wrong. The staff at Surrey Fingerprint Company explained it’s totally normal and helped me understand the whole process. Professional, friendly, and efficient. Highly recommend!”

– Mohammed A., Surrey

“Service Canada appointments were booked 3 weeks out, and I only had 24 days left on my deadline. Found Surrey Fingerprint Company online and they took me as a walk-in. Digital fingerprinting was so much better than the old ink method I remember from years ago. Worth every penny for the peace of mind.”

– James L., Langley

Take Action Today – Don’t Risk Your Citizenship Application

Receiving an IRCC fingerprint request letter can feel overwhelming, but it’s a manageable and routine part of many citizenship applications. The key is to act quickly and use an RCMP accredited agency to ensure your fingerprints are submitted correctly and on time.

📅 Book Your Citizenship Fingerprinting Appointment Now

Surrey Fingerprint Company
RCMP Accredited | Serving Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley & Beyond

📍 Location: 112 – 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4

📞 Phone: 604-825-8882 or 604-825-0177

📧 Email: info@surreyfingerprint.com

⏰ Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

💰 Cost: $60 + tax (includes IRCC submission)

🔗 Click Here to Book Online

✅ Same-day appointments

✅ Walk-ins welcome

✅ Digital fingerprinting

✅ Results to IRCC

✅ Fast 10-15 minute service

✅ Free parking

Don’t let your 30-day deadline pass. Thousands of citizenship applicants trust Surrey Fingerprint Company for professional, accurate, and timely fingerprinting services. Join them and move one step closer to becoming a Canadian citizen.