What is a RCMP Record?

If you are a Canadian citizen applying for a nonimmigrant waiver for entry into the United States, one of the documents required for submission is a RCMP record. RCMP stands for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), which is the national police force in Canada. A RCMP record is a certified criminal record listing any criminal convictions that may appear on your record.
When preparing to submit a nonimmigrant waiver application, obtaining your RCMP record is a vital step. Obtaining the record can sometimes be a timely process, so the sooner you apply the better. Here are the steps to obtain your RCMP record:
1. Have your fingerprints taken. You must submit a full set of 10 fingerprints in order to receive your RCMP record. You can have your fingerprints taken at your local police station or with an accredited company, such as Morpho. Your fingerprints will be taken either electronically or with ink and will then be forwarded to the RCMP.
2. Fill in the application. Be sure to properly state your reason for applying, your full name, date of birth, gender, mailing address and phone number.
3. Verify that all information is correct. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
4. Submit your application. Most services now submit all applications electronically.
5. Double check processing times. RCMP record processing times vary, but usually take between one and four months. Typically, the more matches you have in the system the longer processing will take.
If you reside in Canada and have been advised by a Customs and Border Protection officer that you need a criminal waiver to enter the U.S. due to a prior criminal conviction, contact Berardi Immigration Law for a consultation. We will review your case, determine if CBP’s request is valid, and help you formulate a strategy to secure your future admissibility into the U.S.