The Global Guide: Obtaining an RCMP Criminal Record Check from Outside Canada

Have you lived in Canada for more than six months and now find yourself abroad, needing an RCMP Criminal Record Check for your immigration, work, or study applications in another country? Navigating this requirement from outside Canada can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
Goodwin Canada Fingerprinting Service is here to make this essential step seamless for you. As an RCMP-accredited and authorized fingerprinting agency, we specialize in assisting overseas applicants like you. We ensure your application for an RCMP background check is processed quickly, securely, and efficiently, no matter where you are in the world.
Why Do You Need an RCMP Criminal Record Check?
An RCMP Criminal Record Check (also known as a Police Certificate or Record of Conviction) is a crucial document for anyone who has resided in Canada. It’s often required by foreign governments for various purposes:
International Immigration: Many countries require this check as part of their visa or permanent residency applications.
Foreign Work Permits: To ensure you meet the legal and security requirements for employment abroad.
Study Permits: For international students applying to institutions outside Canada.
Adoption Processes: To confirm suitability for adoption.
Professional Licensing: Certain professions may demand a clean criminal record.
This document serves as an official confirmation from Canada’s national police force that you either have no criminal record or details any existing convictions.
Step-by-Step Guide: How Goodwin Canada Helps Overseas Applicants
Goodwin Canada has streamlined the process for obtaining your RCMP Criminal Record Check from outside Canada into four easy steps.
Step 1: Visit Our Website for Comprehensive Instructions
Your journey begins on our dedicated International Fingerprints Services page: https://goodwincan.com/international-fingerprints/
Here, you’ll find a detailed, user-friendly guide covering everything you need to know, including specific forms, identification requirements, and answers to common questions. We ensure all instructions are clear, helping you prepare properly from the outset.
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Documents & Fingerprints
To proceed with your RCMP check, you’ll need two primary components:
A Fingerprint Card: This is the most critical part. You must have your fingerprints taken at a local police station or an authorized fingerprinting agency in your current country of residence. Ensure the prints are clear, legible, and taken on a standard ink-and-roll fingerprint card (often called an FD-258 card, though other standard formats are usually acceptable). Make sure the card includes all required demographic information.
Additional Application Forms: Our website provides any specific application forms you’ll need to complete. These forms gather necessary personal details and consent for the check.
Crucial Tip: Once you have completed the fingerprint card and all required forms, send them to us via email for a preliminary review BEFORE mailing the physical documents to our office in Canada. This preliminary check allows us to identify and correct any potential errors or omissions, saving you valuable time and preventing delays.
Step 3: Secure Submission & Expedited Processing
Upon receiving your physical documents and after our thorough review, our experts at Goodwin Canada will convert your traditional ink-and-roll fingerprints into a secure digital format. This is a crucial step that allows for electronic submission directly to the RCMP’s Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS) division.
Electronic submission is superior to traditional mail for several reasons:
Faster Processing: Digital submissions are processed significantly quicker by the RCMP.
Enhanced Security: Electronic transmission minimizes the risk of documents being lost or compromised in transit.
Accuracy: Our specialized equipment ensures the highest quality digital conversion of your prints.
Once submitted, your application officially enters the RCMP’s processing queue.
Step 4: Receiving Your Official Results
The RCMP typically processes electronically submitted applications within 2-3 weeks after submission. However, processing times can vary depending on RCMP volume and whether a criminal record is found.
You have flexible options for receiving your official results:
Direct Mail (Canadian or US Address): The RCMP can send your results directly to a specified Canadian or US address via regular mail. Please note that the RCMP does not provide a tracking number for this service.
Through Our Office (Overseas Forwarding): For an additional fee, Goodwin Canada can receive the results on your behalf. Once received, we will securely forward them to your overseas address using a tracked shipping service, providing you with peace of mind and ensuring delivery.
Why Choose Goodwin Canada Fingerprinting Service?
Goodwin Canada is a globally trusted name in fingerprinting and background check services. We understand the complexities of international applications and are committed to providing reliable, client-focused support.
Our Expertise Extends To:
Comprehensive Criminal Record Checks: We facilitate checks for Canada (RCMP), the US (FBI FD-258/FD-1164), and other countries (C-216C).
Diverse Application Support: Our services are crucial for a wide range of needs, including:
Permanent Residency (in Canada and other countries)
Canadian Citizenship
US Immigration (Green Card, Visas)
Employment & Professional Licensing
Pardon Applications
Visas and Border Crossings
Name Change applications
Volunteer Work and Vulnerable Sector Screening
With our authorized status and commitment to accuracy, you can trust Goodwin Canada to handle your sensitive documents with the utmost care and professionalism, regardless of your location.
Need Assistance? Contact Us Today!
Don’t let geographical distance hinder your application process. Our team at Goodwin Canada is ready to assist you every step of the way.
Email: info@goodwincan.com
Phone: +1 (416) 886-8880
Visit Our Website: www.goodwincan.com
Let Goodwin Canada be your bridge to a successful RCMP Criminal Record Check, no matter where in the world you are!


