How Long Does RCMP Fingerprinting Take in Toronto?
If you have an upcoming immigration application, job offer, or visa deadline, you are probably wondering how long RCMP fingerprinting takes in Toronto. The short answer: electronic fingerprinting results are usually available within 72 hours, while ink fingerprinting can take anywhere from 14 days to 120 days depending on your situation.
This guide breaks down the processing times for each service, what can cause delays, and how to get your results as quickly as possible.
Electronic Fingerprinting Processing Time
Ink Fingerprinting Processing Time
Ink-rolled fingerprinting is required for certain applications such as FBI background checks, foreign police certificates, and professional licensing applications abroad. Unlike electronic fingerprinting, ink cards are mailed directly to the requesting agency — such as the FBI, a foreign consulate, or a local police authority in another country — and processing times vary depending on the destination.
General processing time guidelines:
FBI (USA): typically 2 to 6 weeks
Foreign consulates: varies by country, usually 2 to 6 weeks
Local police authorities abroad: depends on the country, check with the requesting agency
RCMP (for Canadian police certificate): 5 to 10 business days after receiving the card; up to 120 days if a match requires manual verification
We recommend contacting your requesting agency directly to confirm their current processing times before your appointment.
At Goodwin Canada, ink-rolled fingerprints are completed on-site and available for immediate take-home, so you can mail your cards the same day as your appointment.
What Can Cause Delays?
Several factors can slow down your RCMP fingerprinting results:
1. Poor quality fingerprints — smudged or unclear prints are rejected and must be redone
2. Incomplete application forms — missing information causes processing delays
3. High volume periods — processing times may increase during busy immigration seasons
4. Manual verification required — if your fingerprints match an existing record, manual review adds significant time
Choosing an experienced, RCMP-accredited agency significantly reduces the risk of rejection due to poor print quality.
Tips to Get Your Results Faster
1. Choose electronic fingerprinting over ink whenever your application allows it
2. Book your appointment early — don't wait until your deadline is closeBring valid ID to avoid appointment delays (2 pieces required, including one government-issued photo ID)
3. Ask your fingerprinting agency to verify your forms before submission
4. Check RCMP processing time updates at rcmp-grc.gc.ca for current wait times
Where to Get RCMP Fingerprinting in Toronto
Goodwin Canada is an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency located in North York at 4750 Yonge Street, Suite 346 — steps from Sheppard-Yonge Station. We serve clients across Toronto, North York, Willowdale, Richmond Hill, Markham, and the GTA.
We offer:
1. Electronic (digital) fingerprinting with same-day submission to RCMP
2. Ink-rolled fingerprints for immediate take-home
3. Canadian police certificate assistance for overseas clients
4. Same-day criminal record checks (no fingerprints required)
Walk-ins are welcome. Book online or call us at 416-886-8880.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does RCMP fingerprinting take for immigration?
For immigration purposes, electronic fingerprinting results are typically returned within 5–10 business days. We recommend booking your appointment at least 2 weeks before your application deadline to allow time for any unexpected delays.
Can I get same-day RCMP fingerprinting results in Toronto?
Electronic fingerprinting is submitted to the RCMP immediately after your appointment. Most clients receive their results within 5–10 business days.
What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?
If your fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality, you will need to be re-fingerprinted. At Goodwin Canada, we carefully review print quality before submission to minimize the risk of rejection.
Do I need an appointment for RCMP fingerprinting in Toronto?
Walk-ins are welcome at Goodwin Canada, but booking online is recommended to guarantee your preferred time slot, especially during busy periods.
Ready to get your RCMP fingerprinting done in Toronto?
Book your appointment online or call Goodwin Canada at 416-886-8880. Same-day appointments available at our North York location, steps from Sheppard-Yonge Station.