Fingerprint vs Name-Based Criminal Record Check - Which One Do You Need?

Many Canadians get confused when asked to choose between a fingerprint-based and a name-based criminal record check. Both are official RCMP-connected background checks, but they work very differently, use different verification methods, and are accepted for different purposes. This confusion often leads to delays, rejected applications, or repeated checks - especially for people applying for immigration, employment, or professional licensing.

Choosing the right type of criminal record check from the start is essential. A name-based check is fast and convenient, while a fingerprint-based check provides the highest level of accuracy and is required for many government, immigration, and security roles. In this blog, we break down the key differences between the two so you can confidently decide which background check you actually need.

A name-based criminal record check is a background verification performed using an individual’s full name and date of birth. It is also commonly referred to as a CPIC Check, Criminal Record Check, or Name and DOB Check. This type of check is ideal for situations where a fast, convenient verification is needed without requiring biometric data.

How It Works

The RCMP’s Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database is searched using the personal identifiers you provide. The system matches your information with existing records to determine if there are any criminal convictions. If the system cannot confirm an exact match - such as when names are common or incomplete, fingerprint verification may be required to finalize the check.

When Name-Based Checks Are Accepted

Name-based checks are widely accepted for:

• Private-sector employment
• Volunteer programs
• Rental applications
• Basic employment screening
• Educational or certification purposes
• Travel or visa applications where fingerprints are not mandatory

How Long It Takes

Name-based checks are typically instant to same-day, depending on identity verification. With Globeia, results can be delivered in as little as 15 minutes to a few hours, making it one of the fastest ways to obtain a criminal record check in Canada.

Limitations of Name-Based Checks

While convenient, name-based checks have some limitations:

• Possible false positives if the name is common
• Cannot guarantee 100% identity verification
• May trigger a result of “Incomplete / Requires Fingerprints”
• Not accepted for immigration, government positions, or vulnerable sector checks

A fingerprint-based criminal record check uses biometric identification, either ink-and-paper fingerprints or digital fingerprints collected in person at an accredited agency. This method is the most accurate and is required for high-security applications, government roles, and immigration processes.

How It Works

Fingerprints are submitted electronically to the RCMP National Repository. The system compares your fingerprints against all recorded criminal records to ensure a definitive, verified result. Unlike name-based checks, this method eliminates ambiguity caused by common names or identity errors.

When Fingerprinting Is Required

Fingerprint-based checks are mandatory for:

• Immigration to other countries
• Canadian citizenship and permanent residency
• Work permits with security requirements
• Federal government jobs and armed forces positions
• RCMP or other police positions
• Adoption, name changes, or vulnerable sector checks
• U.S. FBI background checks (FD-258 / C-216-C)

How Long Does It Take

The typical RCMP processing time is 72 hours + mailing time, though it may take longer if:

• There is a criminal history or previous convictions exist
• Additional verification is required

Globeia facilitates both digital and ink fingerprint submissions, often speeding up turnaround while ensuring compliance with RCMP and international standards.

Benefits of Fingerprint Checks

• Highest accuracy and identity verification
• Eliminates false matches common in name-based checks
• Legally required for government, immigration, and security-related roles
• Globally recognized, suitable for visa and international applications

Choose a Name-Based Check If:

• You need a general/background criminal record search
• Your employer only requires a basic criminal record search
• You are applying for non-security roles
• You are outside Canada and need fast results
• You need a CRC for travel, education, rental, or volunteer work

Choose a Fingerprint-Based Check If:

• IRCC requires an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check
• You are applying for PR, citizenship, or work permits
• You work with vulnerable populations
• You are applying for a federal government or security role
• Your name-based check came back as “incomplete.”
• You need an FBI or international criminal record check

While name-based criminal record checks are fast and convenient, there are situations where fingerprints become necessary. Even if you initially apply for a name-based check, the RCMP may request fingerprints to confirm your identity. This typically happens when:

• Common or similar names exist in the criminal records database, making it difficult to verify identity.
• Incomplete or incorrect personal information is provided, such as date of birth or gender.
• There is a possible match on the database that cannot be conclusively verified.
• The RCMP requires additional verification for immigration, government, or security-related purposes.

In these cases, a fingerprint-based check ensures absolute accuracy and avoids delays, giving you a fully verified result that is legally accepted for high-security applications, immigration, and international purposes.

Choosing the correct criminal record check can be confusing, but Globeia simplifies the entire process. Here’s how Globeia supports you:

1. Fast, Same-Day Name-Based Checks

• Receive results in as little as 15 minutes for name-based checks.
• Powered by Automated SmartForm technology that reduces errors and speeds up applications.
• Ideal for employment, volunteer, travel, or educational screening.

2. RCMP-Certified Fingerprinting Services

• Offers digital and ink fingerprinting, accepted by RCMP, IRCC, and international authorities.
• Supports FBI checks (FD-258 / C-216-C) for global applications.
• Ensures a definitive, verified result, eliminating any ambiguity or false matches.

3. Real-Time Tracking and Secure Portal

• Monitor your application through a secure encrypted portal.
• Receive live status updates, SMS and email alerts, and download results safely from anywhere.

4. Dedicated Human Support

• Every application is assigned a dedicated case manager to assist with questions and ensure compliance.
• Globeia combines human expertise with AI efficiency, giving you speed, accuracy, and peace of mind.

5. Transparent Pricing and Trusted Results

• No hidden fees; pricing starts at $33.90 for same-day name-based checks.
• Trusted by 30,000+ clients , internationally recognized for employment, immigration, and travel purposes.

With Globeia, you can confidently choose the right criminal record check - whether a quick name-based check or a full fingerprint-based verification and avoid delays, errors, or compliance issues.

Choosing the right criminal record check doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. Whether you need a fast name-based check or a highly accurate fingerprint-based verification, Globeia makes the process simple, secure, and error-free. Avoid delays, mistakes, and unnecessary re-submissions by relying on Globeia’s RCMP-certified services, same-day results, and dedicated support, so you can get your background check done quickly and confidently.