Successful Submissions to the RCMP with Poor Quality Fingerprints

Successful Submissions to the RCMP with Poor Quality Fingerprints

Are you working in an occupation that involves frequent handwashing or exposure to chemicals? Or do you have a hobby that requires repetitive use of your fingertips? 

These reasons, among other factors such as age, genetics and skin conditions, can lead to poor quality fingerprints that may be rejected by the RCMP CCRTIS. This can create delays in your process, meaning more time required to get that new job or progress in your immigration application. 

This may render the ridge details of your fingerprints more difficult to capture. However even if the fingerprint quality is poor, we have helped clients with dry or sweaty hands make successful applications to the RCMP. 

At our office, we have a special clarifying lotion to help capture more detailed fingerprints. We also offer a lotion and glove set for purchase to our clients. If you have skin dryness and your fingerprints were rejected, it is recommended to apply lotion and wear cotton gloves every night for at least one week before returning for another appointment. We often see improvement if consistent care was provided for the hands. 

What we suggest in the week before the appointment:

  • Staying well hydrated, and moisturizing your hands throughout the day and every night with organic lotion.

  • Using lukewarm water to avoid stripping moisture from the skin.

  • Wearing protective gloves if you need to often wash hands or use chemicals.

  • Taking a break from labour-heavy activities such as gardening, playing instruments like guitar, weight lifting, etc. 

On the day of the appointment:

  • Please do NOT apply lotion before you come for your appointment. 

  • Massage your hands to improve circulation, especially in the winter when hands are cold and stiff.

  • For sweaty hands, we will rub each fingertip with alcohol and dry before proceeding.

Most importantly, stay relaxed! Our experienced agents will take care of you.

While most applicants find success in their applications, please note that it is ultimately up to the RCMP to accept fingerprint quality to their standards. Even with preparation and proper technique, sometimes fingerprints that are significantly damaged or worn can be difficult to improve in a short period of time.  

If your fingerprints are continuously rejected by the RCMP CCRTIS, then manual processing by the RCMP can be conducted using ink fingerprints. Alternatively, a name-based criminal record check may sometimes be accepted in place of a fingerprint-based check. Be sure to always check with the requesting authority.

Book with us today for an in-person appointment. If you have any concerns about your fingerprint quality, feel free to call us ahead of time at 905-771-8890.