Get Your Canadian Police Certificate Overseas
Accredited International Fingerprinting Service by RCMP
Are you living overseas and need to obtain a Canadian Police Certificate? Navigating the process from another country can be daunting, but fear not! Goodwin Canada is your trusted partner for RCMP fingerprints international services. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of obtaining your Canadian Police Certificate from overseas, ensuring a smooth and stress-free application.
Why do you need a Canadian Police Certificate?

A Canadian Police Certificate, also known as a Canadian Criminal Record Check or a Canadian Police Information Check, is a crucial document that attests to an individual’s good character and lack of criminal history. This certificate is often required for several purposes, including employment, immigration, education, and volunteer work.
For those living or working overseas, obtaining a Canadian Police Certificate is particularly important, as it assures potential employers, educational institutions, or immigration authorities that you have not been involved in any criminal activities in Canada. Many organizations, both in Canada and abroad, require this certificate as part of their screening and security protocols.
How to Apply for a Canadian Police Certificate Overseas
Applying for your Canadian Police Certificate from overseas involves specific steps to ensure your application is correctly processed by the RCMP. Our International fingerprints service simplifies this complex process. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Contact Goodwin Canada to request anInternational Fingerprints Guide. We will provide you with our comprehensive International Fingerprints Guide, detailing all requirements for your Canadian Police Certificate overseas application.
Step 2: Get Your Fingerprints Taken by Local Authorities. You will need to obtain ink-rolled fingerprints from authorized agencies in your country. These typically include:
- police services
- embassies/consulates of foreign governments (i.e. not Canadian government embassies/consulates) government departments
- notaries of the public
- foreign private fingerprinting company that is subject to a memorandum of understanding with an accredited Canadian private fingerprinting company
- foreign private fingerprinting company that is subject to a memorandum of understanding with a local police service or government department
- Ensure your paper copy of fingerprints has:
- prints of all ten fingers taken in black ink
- name and address of the authorized agency that you visited
- signature and name of the official who took your fingerprints. This is a crucial part of the RCMP international fingerprints process.
Step 3: Complete the Forms in the International Fingerprints Guide. Determine who will receive the police result, yourself or a third party, and complete all necessary forms included in our International Fingerprints Guide for your Canadian Police Certificate overseas.
Step 4: Gather the Required Documents and Email Them to Goodwin Canada for Review.
Gather the following documents and email them to info@goodwincan.com for our review:
- Two valid government-issued IDs (you can find the list of acceptable IDs in the guidance).
- Two sets of ink-rolled fingerprints form (ensuring they meet RCMP fingerprints international standards) .
- One cloured photo which the size must be 50 mm *70 mm (2 inches *2.75 inches)
Step 5: Mail the Fingerprint Package to the Goodwin Canada Office in Toronto.
Send your complete fingerprint package to: Goodwin Canada Office | 4750 Yonge Street, Suite 346, Toronto, ON M2N 0J6, Canada. This ensures your international fingerprints submission is handled by experts.
Step 6: Goodwin Canada Converts Your Fingerprint Card to an Electronic Format and Submits It Directly to the RCMP. Upon receiving your package, Goodwin Canada will convert your paper fingerprint card into an electronic format and submit it directly to the RCMP. This is our specialized international fingerprints service, ensuring fast and secure processing.
Canadian Police Certificate Processing time and fees
The processing time and fees for obtaining a Canadian Police Certificate overseas can vary depending on a number of factors, including the issuing agency, the type of certificate requested, and the volume of applications being processed at the time.
Processing Time:
- The processing time for a Canadian Police Certificate can range from several weeks to several months, depending on the issuing agency and your location. Goodwin Canada assures you that your fingerprints will be converted on the same day we receive your package.
- Factors that can affect processing time include the volume of applications being received by the RCMP, the complexity of the background check required, and any potential delays in the delivery of the completed certificate.
- It is important to factor in the processing time when planning your application, as you may need to account for potential delays to meet any deadlines or requirements for your Canadian Police Certificate overseas.
Fees:
- The fees for obtaining a Canadian Police Certificate overseas can also vary, with the typical range being between CAD $125 to CAD $150 depending on the type of certificate requested.
- In addition to the base fee, there may be additional charges for expedited courier delivery, or other administrative fees.
- It is important to review the fee schedule carefully in our guidance.
Frequently asked questions
By addressing these frequently asked questions, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the process of obtaining a Canadian Police Certificate from overseas, helping you navigate the application process with confidence.
Q: Can I apply for a Canadian Police Certificate Overseas?
A: Yes, you can apply for a Canadian Police Certificate from anywhere in the world, as long as you follow the specific application requirements and procedures.
Q: How long does it take to receive a Canadian Police Certificate?
A: The processing time can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to several months to receive your Canadian Police Certificate, depending on the volume of applications.
Q: Do I need to provide fingerprints to obtain a Canadian Police Certificate?
A: The requirement for fingerprints can depend on the type of certificate you are applying for and the issuing agency. Some agencies may require fingerprints, while others may not.
Q: What if I have a criminal record in Canada?
A: If you have a criminal record in Canada, this information will be included in your Canadian Police Certificate. The processing time may be longer than usual, between 4 days to 120 days.
Q: How long is a Canadian Police Certificate valid?
A: The validity of a Canadian Police Certificate can vary, but it is generally valid for a period of 6 months to 1 year, depending on the purpose for which it is being used.
Tips for a smooth Canadian Police Certificate Application
Obtaining a Canadian Police Certificate from overseas can be a straightforward process with the right approach. Here are a few tips and strategies that can help ensure a smooth application experience for your international fingerprints submission:
- Start the application process early: Given the potential for longer processing times, it’s important to begin your Canadian Police Certificate overseas application process as early as possible, especially if you have a deadline or specific timeline in mind. This will help you avoid any last-minute delays or complications related to your RCMP international fingerprints submission.
- Carefully review the application requirements: Thoroughly read the instructions and requirements we provided. Double-check that you are choosing the correct type of purpose to request the Canadian Police Certificate overseas for your specific needs.
- Gather all required documents based on our document checklist. This will help streamline the international fingerprints submission and reduce the risk of delays.
- Be patient and persistent:Obtaining a Canadian Police Certificate from overseas can take time, so it’s important to be patient and persistent throughout the process.
Need help getting your Canadian Police Certificate overseas?
Goodwin Canada is RCMP-accredited and experienced in assisting international applicants with their Canadian Police Certificate Overseas needs and RCMP international fingerprints processing.
📩 Email: info@goodwincan.com | 📞 Call: 416-886-8880


