When and Where to Submit Fingerprints for Canadian Citizenship

It is a thrilling experience to apply as a Canadian citizen. This is the ultimate fruit of years of toiling in Canada, earning a living, getting an education, and influencing the society. However, through the process, you might be asked to provide fingerprints to become a Canadian citizen. This action may seem surprising, but it is a standard and basic experience of numerous candidates. Knowing when it can occur and where to seek help will keep you up to date with the application process.

It is not the case that every person will be required to provide citizenship fingerprint records, although this is commonplace. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) usually makes the request when they have any doubts concerning your background that require clarification. This could occur in case:

• Your birth date or name is close to that of a convict

• Your immigration history is also missing or ambiguous

• You have lived in a different country, or you have changed your identity at some time

• IRCC wishes to commission a security check to ensure that you are not a security risk
  

If IRCC needs your fingerprints for Canadian citizenship, they will send you a written request. This letter will outline exactly what you need to do, where you can go, and the timeline for completing the fingerprinting process. It’s important not to delay once you receive this notice, as failure to comply can hold up your application.

Where to Submit Fingerprints for Canadian Citizenship

In Canada, you must go through an accredited fingerprinting agency that’s authorized by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). You can’t submit fingerprints just anywhere—they must be collected using specific procedures and submitted digitally to ensure accuracy and security.

If you're in Ontario or nearby regions, locations like VS Fingerprinting are approved and equipped to submit electronic citizenship fingerprint records directly to the RCMP. These fingerprinting centres have trained staff who use live-scan technology, which captures your fingerprints digitally, eliminating the mess and delays of ink-based prints.

Digital fingerprinting is preferred because it's faster and more secure. In most cases, the results are processed and sent to IRCC within days—much quicker than manual methods.

What You Need to Bring

When visiting a fingerprinting location, you’ll need to bring:

• Two valid pieces of government-issued ID (one must include a photo)

• The original letter from IRCC requesting your fingerprints for Canadian citizenship

• Any reference numbers or forms specified in the IRCC letter

• Payment for the fingerprinting service

Some providers also offer mobile services if you cannot attend in person, although this may depend on your location and the urgency of the request.

How Long Does It Take?

Once your fingerprints are taken and sent to the RCMP, processing times can vary. However, electronic submissions are often completed much faster than manual submissions. Typically, IRCC receives the results in less than a week, though it can take longer depending on the case.

It’s worth noting that even if your fingerprints were previously submitted for immigration or employment, you may still be asked for new citizenship fingerprint records. IRCC usually requires fingerprints that are no older than six months, specifically tied to your citizenship application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While the process is straightforward, applicants sometimes make errors that cause delays:

• Ignoring or misplacing the IRCC fingerprint request letter

• Visiting a location that is not RCMP-accredited

• Submitting fingerprints too late or without all required documents

• Assuming that previous background checks are sufficient

Avoiding these mistakes can help keep your application timeline smooth and prevent unnecessary stress.

If You’re Outside Canada

For those applying for citizenship from abroad, the process is slightly different. You’ll need to visit a local police agency or fingerprinting office that’s authorized to take your prints. These prints must be sent to an RCMP-accredited agency in Canada—like VS Fingerprinting—for digital conversion and submission to the RCMP.

You can coordinate remotely with Canadian providers to handle the submission, but it’s essential to follow all instructions carefully and allow additional time for international processing and mailing.

Conclusion

Being asked to provide fingerprints for Canadian citizenship can feel like a bump in the road, but it’s a routine security measure. With the right knowledge and preparation, submitting your citizenship fingerprint data can be a quick and stress-free part of your path to becoming a Canadian. Always use a trusted, accredited agency and act promptly when you receive a request. Doing so shows responsibility and keeps your application moving forward.

Need reliable help with your citizenship fingerprint submission? Visit VS Fingerprinting—a trusted RCMP-accredited provider offering fast, secure, and professional fingerprinting services across Ontario. Whether you're in Canada or abroad, we’re here to ensure your fingerprints for Canadian citizenship are submitted properly and on time. Book your appointment with us today!