Whether you are applying for a new job, pursuing Canadian citizenship, seeking permanent residency, or volunteering with a youth organization, one requirement will almost certainly appear on your checklist: a criminal background check. And in Ontario today, that means digital fingerprinting.
Digital fingerprinting has become the gold standard for identity verification and background screening. It is faster, more accurate, and more secure than the old ink-and-paper methods. Not all fingerprinting providers are created equal. Choosing an RCMP accredited fingerprinting agency is not optional, it is essential. Without accreditation, your fingerprints will simply not be accepted.
What Is digital fingerprinting?
Digital fingerprinting, also called LiveScan fingerprinting, is the electronic capture of your fingerprints using an optical scanner. With LiveScan technology, there is no ink or card involved. The technician rolls your fingerprints across a glass plate and scans them, making the process faster, cleaner, and more accurate than the traditional ink-and-roll method.
After capturing them, the system formats your fingerprints and personal information into a secure electronic package and transmits it directly to the RCMP’s Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS), where officials check them against the National Repository of Criminal Records.
If the system finds no match, it issues a certificate, sometimes in as little as 72 hours. If it identifies a criminal record, the official report details it.
This process differs fundamentally from a simple name-based background check. Fingerprint-based background checks run searches against both federal and national criminal databases to create a far more complete criminal profile of the applicant, while name checks are not nearly as comprehensive and rely on a limited number of predetermined records.
Why RCMP accredited fingerprinting matters
Before booking any appointment, understand this key point, not every business that advertises fingerprinting services has authorization to submit your fingerprints to the RCMP.
Only companies officially authorized by the RCMP can take fingerprints for civil purposes and submit them electronically to CCRTIS for verification against the National Repository of Criminal Records.
The process requires the applicant to bring a fingerprint request form and two pieces of valid government-issued identification to an accredited fingerprint company, which has been certified and accredited by the RCMP to submit fingerprints electronically. At least one piece of ID must include a photo.
Going to a non-accredited provider means your fingerprints will be rejected. You will have wasted time and money, and may face serious delays in your job application, immigration file, or licensing process. Always verify accreditation before you book.
Four Pillars Fingerprinting operates as an RCMP-accredited Direct Connect fingerprinting agency, meaning the agency submits your fingerprints securely and directly through its own infrastructure without relying on any third-party network.
Digital fingerprinting vs. Ink fingerprinting: What’s the difference?
Both methods are valid in different circumstances, but digital fingerprinting is the preferred standard in Ontario for most applications.
Digital (LiveScan) fingerprinting:
LiveScan technology allows for much faster results with a lower rejection rate of illegible prints. It eliminates many of the problems associated with ink prints, such as smudging and over or under-inking.
Live scan fingerprinting delivers much cleaner results than traditional ink fingerprinting. Because it does not use ink to capture prints, it significantly reduces the potential for human error.
For most criminal background checks in Ontario, whether for employment, immigration, professional licensing, or record suspension, the RCMP requires digital fingerprinting, not just prefers it.
Ink fingerprinting:
Ink fingerprinting still has its place. Many international police agencies require ink fingerprints for processing police certificates. If you are applying for a visa, work permit, or permanent residence in countries such as Hong Kong, the Philippines, Nigeria, the UAE, or Egypt, you may need this method.
At Four Pillars Fingerprinting, both methods are available under one roof. Whether you need a standard RCMP criminal record check or a fingerprint card for an international application (C216C, FD-258, or FD-1164), the team handles it all.
Who needs digital fingerprinting in Ontario?
The range of situations that require fingerprinting services in Brampton and across Ontario is broader than most people realize.
Employment background checks: Many employers, particularly in healthcare, finance, education, and government, require an RCMP-certified criminal record check before extending a job offer. Employers, volunteer organizations, and licensing bodies often require RCMP fingerprinting to conduct criminal background checks.
Immigration and permanent residency: Applicants for Canadian permanent residency, work permits, study permits, or citizenship often need to submit their fingerprints to complete background checks as part of the application process. Immigration authorities use these checks to assess security risks and verify identity.
Professional licensing: Regulatory bodies such as the Law Society of Ontario, the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC), and the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) require fingerprint-based background checks for professional licensing.
Record suspension applications: Individuals applying for a record suspension or a U.S. entry waiver must submit their fingerprints to the RCMP for a detailed criminal record check, which ensures that applicants meet the eligibility criteria.
International background checks: If you are a Canadian living abroad, or a newcomer who has previously lived in Canada, you may need an RCMP-certified background check for use in another country. Fingerprinting FP offers international fingerprinting services and can assist with apostille authentication for foreign submissions.
Legal name changes and adoptions: Authorities require fingerprinting for legal name change applications and for individuals involved in domestic or international adoption procedures to confirm that applicants have no relevant criminal history that could affect the process.
What to expect: The digital fingerprinting process step by step
Understanding the process ahead of time removes any anxiety and ensures your appointment goes smoothly.
Step 1: Book your appointment
Contact Four Pillars Fingerprinting to schedule a convenient time. The office is open Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Walk-ins are considered too, but booking in advance is strongly recommended.
Step 2: Bring your identification
You will need to bring two pieces of valid government-issued ID. At least one must include a photo, acceptable forms include a passport, driver’s licence, PR card, or similar document. If you are applying for immigration purposes, bring any relevant file numbers or letters from IRCC.
Step 3: Fingerprint capture
Our trained technician will verify your documents, enter your information into the system, and scan each of your fingers using the LiveScan device. The process is quick and usually takes less than 15 minutes.
Step 4: Secure electronic submission
As a Direct Connect agency, Four Pillars Fingerprinting submits your fingerprints immediately and directly to the RCMP via CCRTIS. No third party is involved in the transmission.
Step 5: Receive your results
Transactions where no criminal record is present are typically completed within 3 business days by the RCMP and then mailed to the requested address. If a criminal record is present, processing may take longer. Your results will be delivered to your home address or to a designated third-party address such as an employer or immigration authority.
Tips for a smooth fingerprinting appointment
A few simple steps can improve the quality of your fingerprint capture and help avoid delays:
Moisturize your hands: Dry or rough skin can make fingerprint capture more difficult. Apply hand lotion daily in the days leading up to your appointment, but not on the day of your visit.
Avoid heavy physical work beforehand: Construction work, gardening, or prolonged chemical exposure can temporarily affect fingerprint clarity.
Bring the right documents: Two pieces of government-issued ID, with at least one being a photo ID. If your application is immigration-related, bring your IRCC letter with your UCI and file number.
Know your purpose: Be clear about why you need the fingerprinting (employment, immigration, licensing, etc.) so the technician can ensure the correct service and submission is completed.
Why choose Four Pillars Fingerprinting for Fingerprinting services in Brampton?
Four Pillars Fingerprinting is a trusted, RCMP accredited fingerprinting agency based in Brampton, serving clients across Ontario and internationally. Here is what sets the agency apart:
RCMP accredited direct connect agency: Four Pillars Fingerprinting is certified to submit fingerprints directly to the RCMP without any third-party network involvement, means greater security and faster results.
Advanced livescan technology. The agency uses modern digital fingerprinting equipment to capture high-quality images, helping to minimize rejection rates and avoid delays in your application.
Comprehensive one-stop services. From RCMP and FBI fingerprinting to notary public, commissioning, apostille services, and fingerprint card printing (C216C, FD-258, FD-1164), all services are available at a single convenient Brampton location.
Transparent and Supportive Process. Every client receives clear guidance on which service is right for their situation, what identification is required, and what to expect from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Four Pillars Fingerprinting affiliated with the RCMP or the government?
No. Four Pillars Fingerprinting is an independent, privately owned agency. The RCMP accredits and authorizes the agency to submit fingerprints electronically, but it does not fund or affiliate with the RCMP, any police service, or any government body.
How long does the RCMP take to process results?
The RCMP sets the processing times. If it finds no criminal record, it typically completes the results within 3 business days and mails them out. If it finds a record, the process may take significantly longer.
Can I get fingerprinting done for an international background check?
Yes. Four Pillars Fingerprinting offers international fingerprinting services, including ink fingerprint cards and apostille authentication support for foreign submissions.