Avoid Delays: Get Your Fingerprints for Canadian Citizenship Done Right

It is a prestigious and thrilling process to apply for citizenship in Canada. Along with it, there is paperwork, dates that need to be met, and trivial details that will cause large problems unless addressed correctly. One of the most crucial (and misinterpreted) elements of the procedure is fingerprints for Canadian citizenship. Unless properly done, your application may be delayed by weeks or even months.

All right, let us proceed to see how properly you should have your fingerprints taken, why they are so important, and what to avoid.

Why Fingerprints Matter for Citizenship Applications

As an applicant for Canadian citizenship, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) might ask you to submit fingerprints to undergo a background check. This will mostly be to ascertain who you are and perhaps acquire a criminal record in Canada and also in other countries where you have resided.

While not every applicant is asked to provide fingerprints, many are. And when that request comes, timing matters. Delays in submitting fingerprints for Canadian citizenship can put your entire application on pause.

The background check only starts after your fingerprints are received. If you take too long, your processing time will stretch beyond the usual estimate. That’s why it’s smart to be prepared — even before the request comes.

Where to Go and What to Know

In Canada, fingerprints must be taken by a government-accredited agency. You can’t just go to any corner print shop or take prints yourself at home. The RCMP accepts digital fingerprints from authorized providers only.

This means finding a reliable fingerprinting agency in your area. VS Fingerprinting, for example, is a trusted provider that offers quick, RCMP-accredited fingerprints for Canadian citizenship. With trained staff and digital processing, the results are sent directly to the RCMP electronically — reducing errors and saving time.

Before going, make sure you bring:

• The letter from IRCC requesting fingerprints (if you already received it)

• 2 valid pieces of government-issued ID (one must be a photo ID)

• Any document or file number provided by IRCC

• Your immigration status documents, if needed
  

Digital vs Ink Fingerprints: What's Accepted?

For Canadian citizenship, IRCC prefers digital fingerprints. These are more accurate, faster to process, and less prone to rejection. If you go to a certified location like VS Fingerprinting, they will capture your digital prints and submit them directly to the RCMP on your behalf.

In rare cases where digital isn’t available (for example, if you have damaged fingertips), ink fingerprints might be accepted — but this usually takes longer and requires special mailing. Always ask the agency beforehand which method is best for your case.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

When it comes to fingerprints for Canadian citizenship, even small mistakes can cause big delays. Here are some of the most common errors people make:

• Waiting too long after receiving the fingerprint request

• Choosing a non-accredited or out-of-date fingerprinting service

• Bringing expired or incorrect ID to the appointment

• Failing to send the results to the right department (though accredited agencies handle this for you)

• Not confirming if additional documents are needed for RCMP submission

By choosing an experienced service, you avoid all these errors. The process becomes smooth, professional, and faster.

How Long Does It Take?

Once you complete your fingerprints for Canadian citizenship, the digital prints are submitted to the RCMP. From there, it typically takes:

• 3 to 5 business days if there is no criminal record

• A few weeks if further investigation is needed

After processing, the RCMP sends the results directly to IRCC. You do not need to forward anything yourself, which is another reason why using an accredited provider like VS Fingerprinting is important — it removes your stress.

Do You Need an Appointment?

Most fingerprinting centres allow walk-ins, but it’s highly recommended to book an appointment. This avoids waiting in line and ensures you’re seen on time. Agencies like VS Fingerprinting offer easy online booking and can guide you on what to bring, making the entire experience simple.

Some locations even offer evening or weekend hours for added convenience.

For Future Applicants: Be Proactive

Even if you haven’t yet received a fingerprint request, being proactive helps. Research a nearby accredited agency, understand what’s required, and be ready to act quickly if the request comes.

In many cases, your fingerprints for Canadian citizenship can be completed within one appointment. Being ready means you won’t lose valuable weeks scrambling for a solution.

Final Note for Citizenship Applicants

Getting your fingerprints for Canadian citizenship done right the first time is more important than most people realise. It saves weeks of delays, removes stress, and keeps your application moving forward. With trusted services like VS Fingerprinting available, there’s no need to take chances with your future.

If you're applying for Canadian citizenship, don't let paperwork slow you down. VS Fingerprinting is here to help you get it done quickly, professionally, and correctly — so you can move one step closer to calling Canada your forever home.