If you are residing in Australia, China, New Zealand, England, or South Africa and require a Canadian Police Clearance (RCMP Criminal Record Check) for immigration, employment, visa, or other official purposes, the process can initially seem complex. With the right guidance and an experienced accredited agency, however, applying from outside Canada can be smooth and efficient.
This guide outlines the step-by-step process for obtaining a Canadian police clearance while living overseas.
What Is a Canadian Police Clearance?
A Canadian Police Clearance Certificate is an official document issued following a criminal record check conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). It confirms whether an individual has a criminal record in Canada.
This certificate is commonly required for:
- Canadian immigration and visa applications
- Employment or volunteer positions
- Citizenship or adoption-related purposes
Step-by-Step Process to Apply from Outside Canada
Step 1: Have Your Fingerprints Taken Locally
The RCMP requires fingerprint-based criminal record checks. Since fingerprints cannot be captured remotely, they must be taken by an authorized local agency in your country of residence:
- Australia: Local police stations or accredited private fingerprinting agencies
- China: Public Security Bureau (PSB) or approved private fingerprinting providers
- New Zealand: Local police stations or private fingerprinting services
- England: Local police stations or approved private agencies (such as Identigo)
- South Africa: South African Police Service (SAPS) or accredited fingerprinting agencies
Fingerprints may be taken digitally or using ink, depending on local availability.
Step 2: Submit Fingerprints to an RCMP-Accredited Agency in Canada
The RCMP does not accept fingerprint submissions directly from outside Canada. Your fingerprints must be forwarded to an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency in Canada for electronic submission and processing.
Point Zero Global Services is an RCMP-accredited agency with extensive experience handling international applications—particularly from Australia, our largest source of overseas clients.
Step 3: Provide Required Documentation
Applicants are generally required to submit:
- A scanned copy of a valid passport or government-issued identification
- A completed application form provided by the RCMP-accredited agency
- Payment of applicable processing fees (fees vary by agency)
Step 4: Receive Your Canadian Police Clearance
Once processing is complete, your Canadian Police Clearance Certificate will be issued and delivered by mail or electronically, where applicable.
Why Choose Point Zero Global Services?
Global Reach
Proven experience handling applications from Australia, China, NZ, UK, and South Africa.
Secure Processing
Secure processing, international delivery, and end-to-end application support.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a Canadian Police Clearance from outside Canada does not need to be complicated. By following the correct process and partnering with a trusted RCMP-accredited agency, applicants can complete their clearance efficiently and with confidence.
Point Zero Global Services provides professional, reliable support for clients worldwide—helping you obtain your Canadian police clearance accurately, securely, and without unnecessary delays.