How to Get an RCMP Clearance Certificate Outside of Canada

Obtaining a criminal record check, also known as an RCMP certified police clearance certificate, when traveling outside of Canada can seem like a difficult undertaking.

However, the procedure can be made simpler with the right direction and trustworthy services. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to complete the procedure with certified criminal records based on fingerprints and the outstanding services offered by Document Legalization of Canada, a reputable pioneer in international document certification.

Step 1: Fingerprinting outside Canada

In order to obtain a certified criminal record check, the RCMP requires fingerprint-based identification, thus you will need to have your fingerprints taken at a legitimate location in your current country (local police station). Follow the below steps:

Find a Certified Fingerprinting Agency:

1. Fingerprinting services are usually offered by police stations and private certified fingerprinting organizations.
2. Make sure they utilize a fingerprint card that satisfies RCMP requirements, like the C-216C form.
3. Please be aware that fingerprint forms are widely accepted and formally recognized in the majority of countries.

Present Proper Identification: 

1. Bring official government-issued photo identification to prove your identity.
2. Other documents, like proof of residency, might be needed by some authorities.
   If you are unsure if your identity is acceptable, get advice from the accredited fingerprinting agency or the local police station.

Capture Fingerprints:

1. Get your fingerprints recorded on the relevant fingerprint card.
2. It is crucial that black ink be used to capture the fingerprints and that the procedure be verified by the official’s signature and the agency’s official stamp. These organizations might not, however, offer a signature or stamp in other nations. In certain situations, a notarized letter attesting to the fingerprints’ authenticity can be obtained by visiting a Notary Public or a law firm.

Step 2: Submitting Your Fingerprints to the RCMP

After capturing your fingerprints, it’s time to submit them to the RCMP for processing:

Select a Certified Third-Party Agency:

1. As you’re currently outside of Canada, it’s essential to work with an RCMP-accredited third-party company to handle your fingerprint submission.

Send Fingerprints to Document Legalization of Canada :

1. For a quick and secure submission process, you can mail your original fingerprint to Document Legalization of Canada which they take care of digitizing and properly managing your fingerprints for electronic submission with an accredited third-party of your choice.

Fill Out Required Forms:

1. Make sure to complete any necessary forms requested by the RCMP, along with ours that assist in your submission process.

Pay Applicable Fees:

1. Be aware that the RCMP charges a fee for processing your criminal record check, and additional fees may apply for third-party services.

Step 3: Getting Your RCMP Criminal Record Check Certified for International Use

If you intend to use your RCMP police clearance certificate outside of Canada, it’s essential to ensure it complies with the specific requirements of the destination country. There are two primary options for certification:

• Apostille Certification (for Hague Convention countries):

Since Canada became a member of the Hague Apostille Convention in 2024, your document can now be directly apostilled, making it acceptable in any of the signatory countries.

• Authentication and Legalization (for non-Hague countries):

In the event that the nation to which you intend to submit the certificate is not a signatory to the Hague Convention, Global Affairs Canada will need to authenticate the document. Following that, it needs to be legalized by the relevant embassy or consulate.

Document Legalization of Canada your Trusted Partner is Document Apostille

Document Legalization of Canada is a leading company in Canada that specializes in international document certification, having been in business for many years. They are your best option for the following reasons:

Experience: A track record of successfully helping clients all over the world with document certification, including certificates of RCMP clearance.

Efficiency: Your fingerprints and applications are processed safely and promptly thanks to their extensive worldwide network and collaborations with recognized organizations.

End-to-End Services: Document Legalization of Canada saves you time and effort by handling every step of the process, from fingerprint digitization to apostille or authentication and legalization.

Worldwide Reach: Their global presence makes it simple for you to have your documents certified, regardless of where you are—in Europe, Asia, Africa, or elsewhere.

Security and Compliance: They guarantee that your personal information is kept private and confidential in compliance with Canadian and international privacy laws.