Submit Your Fingerprints for Canadian Citizenship Application

Receiving a Fingerprint Request Letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can raise questions for many applicants in the process of obtaining Canadian citizenship. However, this request is a standard part of IRCC’s verification procedures and should not be a cause for concern.

A Fingerprint Request Letter is an official notice from IRCC instructing an applicant to provide digital fingerprints to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or an accredited fingerprinting agency. This step allows IRCC to confirm an applicant’s identity and conduct a background check to ensure that no criminal or security issues are associated with the application. In most cases, the request is made because an individual’s name or date of birth is similar to another person’s, or as part of IRCC’s routine quality assurance and screening measures.

In this article, we will explain what the fingerprint request means for your citizenship application, outline the specific steps you should take once you receive the letter, and clarify what to expect after you submit your fingerprints. By understanding the process and acting promptly, you can help prevent unnecessary delays and keep your Canadian citizenship application moving forward efficiently.

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What the Fingerprint Request Letter Means for Your Citizenship Application

The Fingerprint Request Letter of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) states that further verification is necessary before your citizenship application form can proceed. The request will enable IRCC to verify your identity and ensure that the provided background information accurately reflects the records. Fingerprints are used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to conduct criminal and security checks, helping to verify that you have no record that could affect your eligibility for Canadian citizenship. In some cases, this step is also part of IRCC’s quality assurance process to maintain accuracy and integrity in citizenship decisions.

It is important to note that not all applicants receive a fingerprint request. IRCC typically issues these letters when an applicant’s name or date of birth is similar to someone else’s, when a background check cannot be completed with the information on file, or when random screening is required. Receiving a fingerprint request is a common and routine part of the process for many applicants and does not necessarily indicate a problem with your application.

Key Deadlines and Requirements in the Letter

When you receive a Fingerprint Request Letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you are usually given 30 days from the date of the letter to complete the fingerprints for the citizenship process. This requirement helps IRCC confirm your identity and complete background and security checks before you move on to the next steps, such as the citizenship test or interview. Submitting your fingerprints within 30 days is essential to prevent delays in reviewing your citizenship application. If you fail to complete the fingerprinting within the given time, your application may be delayed or placed on hold until the results are received. If you cannot meet the deadline due to reasons beyond your control, you should contact IRCC as soon as possible to request an extension and explain your situation.

The letter includes detailed instructions that must be followed carefully. It outlines where to have your fingerprints taken, usually at an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency or a local police service authorized to collect fingerprints for IRCC. The letter will also specify the identification documents and forms you need to bring to your appointment. In some cases, it may state whether the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) will send the applicant’s fingerprint results directly to IRCC or if you must mail them yourself. Reviewing the letter thoroughly and following each step precisely will help ensure your fingerprints are processed correctly, and your citizenship application continues without unnecessary delays.

Steps to Take Immediately After Receiving the Letter of Canadian Citizenship Application

1. Read the Letter Carefully and Note the Deadline

Once you receive your letter from IRCC, review it closely and mark any important dates. If you are applying for Canadian citizenship, this letter means IRCC needs your fingerprints for citizenship to confirm your identity. You usually have 30 days from the date on the letter to complete this process. Missing the deadline may delay or temporarily close your application until IRCC receives the results. The letter also includes instructions such as where to submit fingerprints to the RCMP, which identification documents to bring, and your application number to include for accurate tracking. Some citizenship applicants are chosen randomly for fingerprint requests as part of IRCC’s quality assurance process.

2. Locate an Accredited Fingerprint Collection Centre

Your fingerprints must be taken at a service accredited by the RCMP, such as an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency, local police service, or RCMP detachment. These providers meet the federal standards for both immigration and citizenship applications. Service Canada Centres do not provide fingerprinting or biometrics services for citizenship purposes. If you are outside Canada and receive a fingerprint request for a citizenship application, you will generally need to have your fingerprints taken in Canada. IRCC specifies that fingerprints for Canadian citizenship purposes must be collected inside Canada at an RCMP-accredited agency, RCMP detachment, or local police service authorized to provide the service.

3. Make an Appointment

Most accredited fingerprinting services require appointments. Bring your Fingerprint Request Letter and valid government-issued photo identification, such as a passport or permanent resident card. Confirm that the fingerprinting service is RCMP-accredited and can transmit your fingerprints electronically to the RCMP. Submitting digital fingerprints helps reduce the processing time for a citizenship application and ensures your information is transmitted securely.

4. Undergo the Fingerprinting

During your appointment, your digital fingerprints will be collected securely. The accredited agency will then send the results electronically to the RCMP. Once processed, the RCMP forwards the results directly to IRCC using the application number provided in your letter. Always ask for a receipt or confirmation slip as proof that your fingerprints were submitted, and keep it for your records.

5. Follow Up and Confirm Receipt

After completing your fingerprinting, check your IRCC online account or email for updates. The RCMP usually sends results directly to IRCC, so you typically do not need to forward them yourself. If you receive a copy of the results, follow the instructions in your letter from IRCC to ensure they are sent to the correct address. Monitoring your application and responding promptly to any updates helps keep your citizenship application moving forward without delays.

What Happens After You Submit Your Fingerprints for Citizenship Application

Biometric Processing, Background Check, and Record Verification

After you submit your fingerprints for a citizenship application process, they are securely encrypted and stored in government databases managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). As part of the verification process, IRCC may request fingerprints through a criminal database to confirm your identity and ensure the accuracy of your information. The RCMP runs your fingerprints through national criminal and identity databases and may share information with relevant security or partner agencies as permitted under Canadian law. This step confirms that your name and date of birth match official records and that there are no criminal or security issues that could affect your Canadian citizenship application process.

Typical Processing Times and Possible Delays

Most applicants must wait a few weeks to see updates to their application status after completing the fingerprinting process, but the processing time may vary depending on the complexity of each case. When fingerprints are requested for additional verification, or if a match is found in the database, the review can take longer. If your fingerprints match an existing record or require deeper investigation, processing may extend to several months. Some applicants are required to wait up to four months or more before seeing progress. Staying patient and checking your IRCC account often ensures you do not miss any updates or requests for more information.

What IRCC Will Do Next

Once the RCMP completes its review, IRCC will update your application status to show progress. Common updates include “Under review” or “Decision made.” If everything is in order, IRCC will contact you with the next steps, such as an invitation to take the citizenship test, attend an interview, or participate in a citizenship oath ceremony once your application is approved. This stage represents one of the final milestones in becoming a Canadian citizen and marks the conclusion of the Canadian citizenship application process.

Do’s and Don’ts While Waiting for Canadian Citizenship Application

While waiting for updates in the Canadian citizenship application process, applicants are often required to provide additional information, such as fingerprints or documents. Here’s what you should do:

Keep your contact information and mailing address up to date with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) so you do not miss any notices related to your online application.
Check your IRCC account or mail regularly for updates or further instructions.
Prepare for possible next steps, such as submitting more documents, taking the citizenship test, or attending an interview.
Stay patient, as your fingerprinting process and background check are only part of the review, and processing time may vary depending on your case.

Here’s what you should not do:

Do not assume the fingerprint request means there is an issue with your application. Many applicants receive this step as part of routine verification.
Do not skip or delay your fingerprint appointment. Make sure to visit an agency that is accredited by the RCMP and authorized to offer fingerprinting services for IRCC.
Do not use Service Canada centres or unaccredited providers, since their submissions will not be accepted and could delay your application status.

Best Practices to Streamline the Process

To keep the integrity of the citizenship application intact, it is important to follow all instructions provided by IRCC carefully. Once you receive an IRCC request letter, book the earliest possible appointment for the submission of your fingerprints. Bring valid photo identification and the original letter provided by IRCC to ensure your information is matched correctly. The fingerprints may be required if the person had a citizenship application that needs additional verification, or if there is a similarity in name or date of birth with another individual.

Make sure the agency or police service you choose is authorized by the RCMP to collect fingerprints for IRCC purposes. The RCMP checks your fingerprints in secure databases to make sure you are who you say you are and to rule out any criminal or security concerns. Keep a copy of the receipt or proof of submission for your records, and make sure that the letter tells you how to send your fingerprints electronically. Following these steps ensures your fingerprints are processed smoothly and that your Canadian citizenship application continues without unnecessary delays.

Received a Fingerprint Request Letter? LSC Can Help You & Next Steps

A Fingerprint Request from IRCC is a normal part of confirming your identity for Canadian citizenship. Submit your fingerprints within the 30-day deadline to avoid delays.

If you need help with a criminal record check or document authentication, contact LSC today. We’ll handle the details so you can focus on completing your citizenship process.