Get a criminal record check
Name-based checks are done by local police; the RCMP issues certified, fingerprint-based checks (often needed for immigration or visas).
Cost: Federal fee CAD 25 plus the local fee (reference)
Time: 3 business days or less without a match; up to 120 business days if processed manually
What you need
- Fingerprints taken by a police service or an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting company
- The RCMP application form
- Payment of the federal fee plus the local fee (waived for some purposes)
Step by step
- Ask whether you need a name-based check (local police) or a certified fingerprint check
- For a certified check, go to a police service or accredited fingerprinting company
- Have your fingerprints taken and submitted electronically to the RCMP
- Receive the result by mail
Where to apply
RCMP: criminal record checks · rcmp.ca
RCMP: where to go · rcmp.ca
The app helps with
Tips to get it right the first time
- The federal fee is waived for Canadian citizenship, immigration and federal job applications, among others.
- You don't need a third-party company if your local police offers fingerprinting.
- If you need it for another country, ask whether it must also be apostilled.
Save the checklist in the app and tick items off as you gather them.
Reviewed on October 19, 2026 · source: rcmp.ca. Requirements and costs are for reference and may change without notice: confirm them with the official source before you go. We are not affiliated with any institution.