How Long Does an RCMP Criminal Record Check Take in Toronto?

The RCMP Criminal Record Check is an absolute necessity during the processes of applying for jobs, immigration, volunteering, and getting professional licenses in Toronto. Nevertheless, considerably, lots of applicants do not realize the full extent of the time it would take to have their background checks done, which may cause applications to be tardy or even get turned down. Knowing the entire procedure and the timeline that comes with it could save you a lot of trouble and help you organize your activities in a better way.

No matter if you are getting your fingerprints taken in Toronto or sending them from another country, the time it takes to process them can differ depending on a number of aspects such as how you submitted them, if the documents were complete, and if your records needed further verification. In this blog, we are going to talk about the time it takes to get an RCMP Criminal Record Check in Toronto, point out the possible delays, and offer some helpful suggestions to speed up the process.

Understanding the detailed steps of the RCMP Criminal Record Check Toronto process helps you anticipate timelines and avoid delays. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

1. Application Submission

The first step is to complete the RCMP application accurately. In Toronto, you can apply online through secure portals or submit a paper form in person. Online submission is faster because it allows immediate verification and tracking of your application, while manual submissions may take longer due to processing delays. Providing all required details correctly at this stage such as full legal name, date of birth, and contact information - reduces the risk of errors that could extend processing time.

2. Fingerprint Capture

A certified RCMP Criminal Record Check requires fingerprints. Toronto residents have several options:

• Digital Live Scan Fingerprinting: High-speed scanning that provides accurate digital prints directly to the RCMP database. Faster, reduces human error, and minimizes rejection rates.
• Ink and Roll Fingerprints: The traditional method involves rolling each finger in ink on the C-216C form or equivalent form. While widely accepted, it may take slightly longer due to manual verification.
• Mobile Fingerprinting Services: Accredited agencies, like Globeia, can send technicians to your home or office to capture fingerprints. This convenient option ensures proper capture, reduces mistakes, and speeds up submission.

Submitting high-quality fingerprints initially ensures the RCMP can process your check without delays.

3. Fingerprint Review and Verification

Once your fingerprints are submitted, they undergo a verification process to ensure clarity and compliance with RCMP standards. Poor quality prints, smudges, or incomplete cards can lead to rejections or delays. Accredited providers often pre-screen your fingerprints digitally to catch any issues before submission to the RCMP, significantly reducing processing time.

4. RCMP Processing

After the RCMP receives and verifies your fingerprints, the standard processing time for a clean record is approximately 72 hours. However, if the RCMP identifies a potential match or discrepancy, the review can extend up to 120 business days. Factors affecting processing times include:

• Complexity of the applicant’s criminal history.
• Verification against multiple databases for accuracy.
• Administrative backlog at RCMP processing centers.

Being aware of this range allows applicants to plan for jobs, immigration, or other deadlines. 

5. Document Delivery

Once the RCMP completes the check, the official criminal record certificate is dispatched. Options include:

• Standard Mail: Takes around 5-10 business days for delivery within Canada.
• Courier Services: Faster, trackable delivery for urgent needs.
• Digital Copies via Trusted Providers: Some service providers can provide secure PDFs for immediate access.

Planning for mailing time is essential, especially if your RCMP check is required for immigration, employment, or volunteering. 

6. International Use Considerations

If your RCMP Criminal Record Check is intended for use outside Canada, additional steps may be required:

• Apostille (for Hague Convention countries): Confirms document authenticity for international use.
• Authentication and Legalization (for non-Hague countries): Ensures acceptance of your RCMP certificate abroad.

Planning for these steps is important because international processing can add several days to the total timeline.

While it is possible to apply directly for your RCMP Criminal Record Check, using a trusted provider like Globeia in Toronto can streamline the process significantly:

• Digital Fingerprinting and Live Scanning: Ensures your fingerprints meet RCMP standards.
• Mobile and On-Site Fingerprinting: Visit the Toronto office or schedule mobile appointments.
• Secure Submission and Tracking: Track your RCMP application in real time.
• Reduced Rejection Risk: Expert review prevents common mistakes that delay processing.
• Comprehensive Document Handling: From fingerprints to final delivery, apostille, authentication, or legalization, the complete process is managed under one roof.

Using a reliable service provider can reduce your RCMP Criminal Record Check Toronto processing time and ensure smooth, stress-free results.

In Toronto, getting a Criminal Record Check from RCMP can take anywhere from 3 days to even a couple of months, depending on how complicated your record is and how you submitted it. However, if you know all the steps, if you send perfect fingerprints, and if you use reliable services, then you can cut the delays down considerably. So whether it is for a job in the same city, for volunteering or for foreign applications, if you are ready for it then your background check will be in line with your objectives and will not cause you any stress at all.