RCMP Police Clearance Certificate for use in the UAE

If you're a Canadian living in the United Arab Emirates and need an RCMP Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) — also known as a certified criminal record check — for immigration, employment, or legal purposes, the process may seem complex at first. Fortunately, with expert help from Global Document Solutions, you can complete the entire process efficiently and securely from the UAE.

Step 1: Fingerprinting in Canada or the UAE

Because the RCMP requires fingerprint-based identification, your first step is to have your fingerprints taken at an authorized location in Canada or the UAE.

In Canada:

Visit a ClearNeed Affiliate or RCMP-Accredited Service

  1. Locate a Service:
    • Visit one of ClearNeed’s affiliates across Canada to access cutting-edge digital fingerprinting services.
    • Alternatively, find the nearest RCMP-accredited fingerprinting service if a ClearNeed location isn’t convenient.
  2. What to Bring:
    • Provide government-issued photo identification (e.g., passport or driver’s license).
    • Some locations may require additional documentation, such as proof of residence.
  3. Capture Fingerprints:
    • ClearNeed and RCMP-accredited services use advanced technology to ensure fingerprints meet RCMP standards.
    • Ensure all necessary forms are completed at the time of capture.

Where to Go in the UAE

  • Dubai Police – Main CID Office
    Residents in Dubai can have their fingerprints taken at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) office for international criminal background checks.

    • Location: Dubai Police Headquarters, Al Muraqqabat

    • Contact: Visit the Dubai Police website or dial 901 (within UAE) for local assistance.

    • Appointments: Scheduling in advance may be required. Bring identification and any supporting documentation.

What to Bring

  • Government-Issued Photo ID: Such as a Canadian passport.

  • Fingerprint Form: Bring the RCMP C-216C fingerprint card, or use the Dubai Police form if necessary (as long as all fields are properly completed).

Capturing Your Fingerprints

  • Fingerprints must be taken in black ink, and the form should be signed and stamped by the official.

  • If no stamp or signature is provided, visit a Notary Public or law firm to obtain a notarized letter certifying the authenticity of the fingerprints.

Step 2: Submitting Your Fingerprints to the RCMP

Once your fingerprints have been taken, you’ll need to have them submitted to the RCMP in Canada through an accredited agency.

Let Global Document Solutions Handle It

Global Document Solutions partners with an RCMP-accredited agency to digitize your fingerprint card and submit it electronically to the RCMP.

Here’s How It Works:

  1. Send Your Fingerprint Card to Global Document Solutions in Canada.

  2. Complete Any Required Forms, which we’ll guide you through.

  3. Pay Applicable Fees, including the RCMP’s processing fee and our secure handling service.

✅ Alternative Option: Online CPIC Criminal Record Check

For some UAE visa or permit purposes, a name and date of birth-based check may be accepted instead of a fingerprint-based certificate.

What Is It?

Global Document Solutions also offers a fast and secure online CPIC check, which is based on the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database. This check can be completed entirely online — with no need for fingerprinting — and is often used for employment, visa screening, or residency applications when permitted by the requesting authority.

When Is It Acceptable?

Before proceeding, confirm with your requesting party or legal representative in the UAE if a CPIC check will be accepted in place of a fingerprint-based RCMP certificate. If approved, this option can save significant time and effort.

Step 3: Certifying Your RCMP PCC for Use in the UAE

To be legally recognized in the UAE, your RCMP Police Clearance Certificate must undergo authentication and legalization:

Why This Is Required

Since the UAE is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, your certificate must go through the following steps:

  1. Authentication by Global Affairs Canada.

  2. Legalization by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in Canada.

  3. Translation (if required): Some institutions in the UAE may ask for the PCC to be translated into Arabic.

Global Document Solutions handles the entire certification process to ensure your document is properly validated for official use in the UAE.

Why Choose Global Document Solutions?

With over 30 years of experience, Global Document Solutions is Canada’s trusted leader in international document certification. We provide:

  • ✅ RCMP-Accredited Submission Services

  • ✅ Fast Online CPIC Checks (When Accepted)

  • ✅ Complete Authentication & Legalization Services

  • ✅ Secure Processing and Global Support

Conclusion

Whether you need a fingerprint-based RCMP Police Clearance Certificate or a faster online CPIC check, Global Document Solutions offers everything you need to meet UAE residency, work, or visa requirements. We handle the complex paperwork — so you don’t have to.

👉 Start your application today at Global Document Solutions and let Canada’s first and most experienced team take care of the rest.