RCMP Canada Police Certificate | Police Clearance Services

Applying for immigration, employment, or permanent residency abroad and have resided in Canada?

You will likely need a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Whether you are applying from within Canada or overseas, getting this document is a crucial step—and one that must be done correctly.

This post explains everything you need to know about the RCMP Canada Police Certificate, including how to apply, what documents you need, and how a private agency like RealScan Biometrics can help you get it right the first time.

What is the RCMP Police Clearance Certificate?

The RCMP Police Clearance Certificate, also known as a Criminal Record Check, is an official document issued by Canada’s federal police agency. It confirms whether you have a criminal record in Canada.

This certificate is mandatory for:

• Immigration or permanent residency applications
• Canadian work or study visas
• Employment with government bodies or regulated industries
• Adoption or travel-related documentation

The RCMP certificate is widely accepted and often required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Types of RCMP Criminal Record Checks

There are two main types of checks:

1. Name-Based Criminal Record Check

• Based on full name and date of birth
• Quick but limited in scope
• Not accepted by IRCC for immigration purposes

2. Certified Criminal Record Check (Fingerprint-Based)

• Based on digital fingerprints
• Required for immigration, PR, and sensitive employment
• Processed directly by the RCMP in Ottawa

Most international and immigration-related applications require the certified, fingerprint-based version.

How to Get Your RCMP Canada Police Certificate: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Collect Your Valid Identification

You will need to provide:

• A valid passport (mandatory)
• Additional government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license)
• Ensure all IDs are current, clearly visible, and match your personal details exactly.

Step 2: Get Your Fingerprints Taken

The RCMP requires digital fingerprints. These must be captured by an accredited agency in Canada or a trusted international provider.

If you are applying from outside Canada, you will need to:

• Visit a fingerprinting service provider in your country (like RealScan Biometrics in India)
• Get fingerprints captured on the C-216C form or through live scan
• Ensure fingerprints are properly formatted and readable

Step 3: Submit the Application to RCMP

You can submit your documents either:

• Directly to RCMP (if you're in Canada), or
• Through an accredited third-party agency that forwards it to the RCMP

You’ll need to include:

• Fingerprint card
• ID copies
• Reason for request (e.g., immigration)
• Payment (usually CAD 25 if paid directly to RCMP)

Processing time is around 2 to 4 weeks, excluding mailing time.

How RealScan Biometrics Can Help You (Especially from Outside Canada in India)?

If you live in India, fingerprint processing can be a little more challenging on your own. That’s where RealScan Biometrics comes in.

This is how RealScan simplifies the process for you:

Fingerprinting Services: Get fingerprinting done using a procedure that follows the RCMP’s requirements.

C-216C Card Assistance: Fill out the fingerprint card correctly, ensuring accuracy and acceptance.

Document Verification: Make sure to verify papers by confirming the ID and that everything is submitted properly.

Secure Courier Services: Submit your application directly to Canada through trackable shipping.

End-to-End Support: From start to finish, we assist you with the fingerprinting and the delivery of your certificate.

With RealScan, there’s no need to worry about delays due to mistakes or unclear fingerprints.

Common Reasons for RCMP Certificate Rejection

Applications might be rejected or delayed if:

• Fingerprints are recorded on the wrong form (C-216C)
• Wrong or inaccurate information about personal details is provided
• The IDs are mismatched, or the submitted documents have mistakes
• Submitting a name-based check instead of a fingerprint-based

Working with a certified fingerprinting agency helps avoid these issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take to get the RCMP Police Certificate?

A. Typically, 2 to 4 weeks, depending on processing time and mailing delays.

Q: Can I apply from outside Canada?

A. Through accredited fingerprinting services like RealScan Biometrics, you can apply from India or anywhere abroad.

Q: What if my fingerprints are rejected?

A. If fingerprints are of poor quality, the RCMP may ask for re-submission. Using digital fingerprinting ensures clarity and accuracy.

Q: Is this check valid for Canada PR and immigration?

A. Yes, but only the certified fingerprint-based check is accepted by IRCC.

Q: Can RealScan Biometrics submit my application to Canada?

A. Yes, they offer full application processing and secure submission directly to the RCMP.

Read More

RCMP PCC FAQs

Let RealScan Handle the Hard Work

Handling the fingerprinting and submission process for an RCMP Canada Police Certificate can feel complicated especially from outside Canada.

RealScan Biometrics offers a reliable, fast, and hassle-free way to get your certificate without delays or rejections.

Whether you are applying for immigration, a job, or university, getting your RCMP police check right the first time is essential.

Ready to apply?

Contact our experts today for up-to-date assistance and end-to-end support.