Electronic Fingerprints in Canada

Understanding Electronic Fingerprints in Canada

Electronic fingerprinting, also known as digital fingerprinting or LiveScan, is the modern and highly efficient method for submitting fingerprints to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Unlike traditional ink-and-roll methods, electronic submissions significantly reduce processing times, ensuring you receive your results faster for critical applications.

The RCMP mandates electronic fingerprinting for most civil purposes in Canada to enhance accuracy, security, and processing speed. Whether you’re applying for Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, a criminal record check for employment, a vulnerable sector check, or a US Entry Waiver, digital fingerprints are often a crucial requirement.

Why Electronic Fingerprinting is Essential

Who Needs Electronic Fingerprints in Canada?

A wide range of individuals and purposes require electronic fingerprinting in Canada. Here are some of the most common reasons our clients in Surrey and across British Columbia visit us:

• Canadian Citizenship Applications
• Permanent Resident (PR) Card Applications
• Immigration Purposes (e.g., Express Entry, Spousal Sponsorship)
• Criminal Record Checks (for employment, licensing, volunteer work)
• Vulnerable Sector Checks (for positions involving children or vulnerable persons)
• Pardon Applications (Record Suspensions)
• US Entry Waivers
• Name Changes
• Adoption Processes
• Security Clearances (Government contracts, regulated industries)
• Foreign Travel and Work Permits

If you are unsure whether electronic fingerprints are required for your specific situation, please consult the official requesting authority or contact us for guidance. We are experts in Canadian fingerprinting requirements and can help clarify your needs.

Why Choose Surrey Fingerprint Company for Your Electronic Fingerprints?

As a leading RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency in Surrey, British Columbia, Surrey Fingerprint Company is committed to providing seamless, professional, and efficient electronic fingerprinting services. We understand the importance of accuracy and speed when it comes to your critical applications.

Our Commitment to Excellence:

The Electronic Fingerprinting Process at Surrey Fingerprint Company

Getting your electronic fingerprints taken at our Surrey office is a straightforward and efficient process:

1. Book Your Appointment: While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, we highly recommend booking an appointment to ensure minimal wait times.
2. Bring Required ID: You will need two pieces of valid government-issued identification, at least one of which must be a photo ID. Common examples include a passport, driver’s license, permanent resident card, or Canadian citizenship card. (Note: Provincial health cards and SIN cards are generally not accepted).
3. Digital Capture: Our certified technicians will use advanced LiveScan technology to digitally capture your fingerprints. This is a clean, inkless process.
4. Secure Submission: Your fingerprints and relevant application details are securely transmitted directly to the RCMP’s CCRTIS system.
5. Receive Your Results: For clear records, RCMP processing typically takes 3 business days, after which results are mailed to the requesting party or yourself, as specified. For records with a criminal history, processing may take longer.

We’ll provide you with a unique Document Control Number (DCN) as proof of your submission, which is often required for your application.