Q & A: US Fingerprints

CIC News
Published: April 1, 1999

Q. I have contacted with my local police department and was informed that they are not allowed to do the finger printing for immigration since last year. The local police department also do not know where to get the finger printing for immigration. How do I get the fingerprints done?

Answer: Although it does relate to immigration to Canada, the INS sent instruction restricting the processing of fingerprints for US immigration matters. The result has been a misunderstanding which interferes with those seeking fingerprints for immigration to Canada.

In our experience with our own clients who encounter such difficulties, and where private fingerprinting agencies are unavailable, stating that the request is under the Freedom of Information Act (i.e., in this case, an individual is free to determine what criminal record information is being retained for him/her) has been successful in some cases.

In some cases, the local police will not issue the fingerprints anyhow. It may be necessary to locate a private fingerprinting agency in your local area to handle the process.

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Top Stories
Canada-US to change border crossing hours at multiple ports of entry in 2025
New Brunswick pauses several permanent residence pathways
Free tools and resources for your immigration journey
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Canada
Free tools and resources for your immigration journey
A person accesses powerful web tools that will help them immigrate to Canada.
How the Canadian government supports newcomers with Canada Connects
A multicultural group of youths sit on the steps of a building in Toronto, laughing and socializing.
IRCC to update application fees on December 1
A couple looks to their laptop, credit card in hand, anticipating the online payment of their IRCC fees.
International students in Canada can work 24 hours a week off-campus
A young woman walks while carrying a laptop
Link copied to clipboard