Fingerprinting For International Visa Application
Travelling to a foreign country? Depending on your destination, the length of time you’ll be staying in the country, and the reason for your stay, you may need a visa. The visa application process differs from country to country and may vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for.
In almost all circumstances, however, you’ll need to provide biometrics as a part of your visa application – and those biometrics are almost always fingerprints.
Biometrics are used by countries for a wide variety of purposes, including screening for prior criminal convictions and confirming the person’s identity upon entry. Different countries will have their own fingerprinting requirements for visas – many will allow you to use a third-party service, like FASTCHECK.
What is the process?
The process for obtaining biometrics will vary depending on which country you’re applying to for a visa. There may also be different requirements depending on what type of visa you’re applying for. You can obtain more information on the process of obtaining visas on the Government of Canada’s visa page. Be sure you have blank visa pages in your passport, and carefully read the entry requirements of the country you’re planning to visit.
What required documents do I need?
Each country (and each type of visa) may require different types of documentation. Many countries will allow visa applicants to simply scan the required documents, while some countries require you to visit their consular offices in person.
Passport
Passports are an essential piece of the visa application process. While applying for the visa, you may be able to scan relevant pages from your passport and send them to the consular office. To actually receive your visa, however, you’ll need blank visa pages which can be filled by the consular office. Before applying, make sure you have blank visa pages, and that your passport is not expired.
Visa application form
Each country – and each type of visa – will have its own unique visa application form. Fill out this form carefully, and ask for guidance if you’re unsure about any of the application details. You may be asked about the length of your stay, your employment status, proof of funds, and more.
Clean criminal record
To travel internationally, a clean criminal record check is essential. One of the reasons that fingerprinting is required in almost all visa applications is that applicants must prove that they have a clean criminal record. FASTCHECK can help – we offer fingerprinting services for criminal record check purposes.
How do I get my fingerprints taken?
For countries that accept third-party digital fingerprinting services, and to obtain fingerprints for a criminal record check, you can make an appointment with FASTCHECK. The process is simple, and usually takes under 10 minutes. – your fingerprints are scanned and sent to the appropriate office. Bring your visa application form and passport with you if you’re applying for an international visa.
Interested in our fingerprinting services? We can help get the process started – contact us today!
Conclusion
While the process to apply for international visas differs from country to country, you’ll almost always need fingerprinting services in Winnipeg. We provide those services – get in touch with us!
Mobile Fingerprinting Services – Save time and money!
FASTCHECK is an RCMP accredited Fingerprinting Business.