Fingerprinting Appointment Walkthrough: Step-by-Step

While getting your fingerprints taken may seem like an easy task, the fingerprinting appointment process includes several important aspects to ensure your prints are taken accurately and securely. If you need fingerprints for background checks, immigration, licensing, or employment reasons, knowing what to expect can allow the experience to be smooth and stress-free. This entire procedure, from making your appointment to actually taking your prints, will be described in detail so you will arrive feeling confident and well-prepared.

Understanding the Purpose of Fingerprinting

Before we dive into the fingerprinting appointment process, it’s important to understand why fingerprinting is required in the first place. In Canada, fingerprints are commonly needed for RCMP criminal record checks, immigration procedures, citizenship applications, employment screening, and professional licensing. They help verify your identity with unmatched accuracy since no two fingerprints are alike.

Many government agencies and employers now require digital submissions to minimize processing delays and avoid errors linked with traditional ink fingerprinting. This makes the fingerprinting appointment process more efficient than ever before, especially when handled by accredited providers like VS Fingerprinting.

Step 1: Booking Your Appointment

The first step in the fingerprinting appointment process is booking your slot with an accredited fingerprinting agency. Most agencies, including VS Fingerprinting, allow online scheduling through their website. You’ll be asked to select a preferred date and time, specify the purpose of your fingerprints (for instance, RCMP check, immigration, or employment), and provide identification details.

When booking, make sure the agency is RCMP-certified if your fingerprints need to be submitted for criminal record verification. A certified agency ensures your fingerprints are securely transmitted to the RCMP database and not stored elsewhere.

Tip: Always bring at least two pieces of government-issued ID, such as a passport, driver’s licence, or PR card, to your appointment.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Appointment

Preparation plays a big role in ensuring the fingerprinting appointment process runs smoothly. Wash and moisturize your hands before you arrive, but avoid applying lotions or oils immediately beforehand, as these can interfere with digital scanners.

You should also confirm your appointment details, gather your IDs, and print or screenshot your booking confirmation. If the fingerprints are being taken for a specific organization, bring any reference or file numbers provided by that agency.

Arriving 10–15 minutes early is recommended to allow time for check-in. Most fingerprinting centres operate on a tight schedule, and being punctual helps both you and the technician avoid delays.

Step 3: Identity Verification and Documentation

Once you arrive, a technician will verify your identity. You’ll be asked to present your IDs and, if applicable, supporting paperwork such as a request letter, file number, or application form. This step ensures your biometric data is correctly linked to your legal identity.

For many applicants, this stage is also where consent forms are signed. You’ll acknowledge that your fingerprints are being collected for a specific purpose, and the data will only be used according to privacy and security laws. The fingerprinting appointment process at reputable agencies like VS Fingerprinting is compliant with federal privacy standards, ensuring your personal information is handled safely.

Step 4: Digital or Ink Fingerprinting

Now comes the main part of the fingerprinting appointment process—capturing your prints. Depending on the type of request, the technician will use either a digital scanner or traditional ink pad.

•  Digital Fingerprinting: This is the most common and efficient method today. Your fingerprints are scanned electronically and transmitted directly to the RCMP or designated organization. The digital system instantly detects print quality and alerts the technician if a re-scan is needed.

• Ink Fingerprinting: Though less common now, some foreign authorities still require inked fingerprints on specific forms. The technician will carefully roll each finger on an ink pad and then onto a fingerprint card.

In both cases, the process usually takes 10–15 minutes. You’ll be guided through each finger placement, and the technician will ensure that all prints meet quality standards before submission.

Step 5: Review and Submission

After all fingerprints have been captured, the technician will review them for clarity. In the digital process, the prints are automatically checked for smudges or incomplete areas. Once approved, your prints are securely encrypted and sent to the RCMP database or designated agency.

For ink fingerprints, you may receive the completed fingerprint cards to mail to the requesting institution yourself. The fingerprinting appointment process at VS Fingerprinting ensures everything is double-checked before submission to prevent delays in background check results.

You will receive a confirmation receipt or transaction number that can be used to track your submission status, depending on the purpose of your fingerprints.

Step 6: After the Appointment

Once your fingerprints are submitted, the RCMP or relevant agency processes them. Results are typically sent directly to the requesting authority, such as an immigration office, employer, or licensing board. Processing times vary depending on the agency and the type of check requested.

If you need your results quickly, VS Fingerprinting can assist by ensuring your data is transmitted promptly and accurately. In most cases, the digital submission is processed within a few business days, though external factors can extend this timeframe.

During this post-appointment phase, it’s crucial to keep your transaction number safe in case you need to follow up later.

Common Questions

• How long does the appointment take? The average appointment lasts about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the number of forms and verification steps.

• Can I walk in without booking? While some locations accept walk-ins, it’s best to book in advance to avoid waiting, especially during peak hours.

• What if my fingerprints are rejected? Rejections are rare with digital fingerprinting. However, if prints are unclear due to worn skin or scars, the technician may re-capture them at no extra cost.
  

Final Thoughts

Understanding each step of the fingerprinting appointment process helps reduce stress and saves valuable time. From booking and preparation to submission and follow-up, every stage is designed to maintain accuracy, security, and compliance with RCMP standards. Choosing a certified, trusted provider ensures your biometric data is handled with professionalism and care.

Need your fingerprints taken for immigration, employment, or RCMP purposes? Choose VS Fingerprinting for a fast, reliable, and secure experience. Their trained technicians make the fingerprinting appointment process effortless from start to finish—book your appointment today and get it done right the first time.