Criminal record checks are increasingly common, often required for immigration applications, employment or travel visa applications, among other purposes. But what if you live in Canada and are required to provide a Hong Kong criminal record check?
If so, Red Seal Notary can assist you. To start, let’s go over what is a criminal record check and how do you obtain one from Hong Kong.
In today’s interconnected world, it is more important than ever to have proper background checks and legal paperwork, especially for those aiming for jobs, moving countries, or studying abroad. One essential document you may need is the Police Criminal Record Check that confirms whether someone has a criminal background in their country or countries where they have lived in the past for a certain period of time.
If you are in Canada and need a Hong Kong criminal record check, the process might seem overwhelming due to the distance involved. However, with assistance from a Canadian accredited fingerprint agency, you can easily apply for a Hong Kong criminal record check without leaving Canada.
A criminal record check in Hong Kong is called a request for a Certificate of No Criminal Conviction (CNCC). Up to date requirements for obtaining this check can be found on the website of the Hong Kong Police Force (see link below). The process of applying for the CNCC involves providing fingerprints, submitting an application and copies of your Hong Kong identification.
There are two ways to apply for the CNCC – in person and by mail.
If you are traveling to Hong Kong, you can make an appointment to have your fingerprints taken in person by the Hong Kong Police Force (see link below).You must book the appointment using the Hong Kong Police Force Online Booking System (OBS). Appointment times are available 30 to 60 days in advance.
If you are in Canada, or any other country, you can submit an application for the CNCC by mail. You will be required to provide the following information as part of the application:
• Signed Application Form (available on Hong Kong Police website)
• Fingerprint Consent Form
• Personal Data Form (required for visa applications)
• Photocopy of applicant’s Hong Kong identity card or valid travel document
• A copy of the request letter for the criminal background check (from the relevant visa authority or consulate). The police check will be mailed back to this authority.
• One set of ink and roll fingerprints taken by a police service or an agency accredited by a police service in the country where the applicant is residing
• Application fee
The Hong Kong Police Force detail specific requirements for the ink and roll fingerprints on their website. Fingerprints submitted must meet the following criteria:
• Fingerprints must be taken by overseas law enforcement agencies, consulates or commercial agencies authorized by overseas law enforcement agencies or consulates
• The fingerprint form must contain the following information:
o Rolled and flat impressions of all fingers – called ink and roll fingerprints
o The full name of the applicant
o The full name and rank of the person taking the fingerprints
o The full name and stamp of the authorized agency
o Where and when the fingerprints were taken
o A letter of accreditation from the authorizing police service or consulate if a private agency takes the fingerprints
Red Seal Notary is an official fingerprinting service accredited by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the national Canadian police, to provide ink and roll fingerprints services on an official fingerprint card for clients who require fingerprints to submit to police in Hong Kong and other countries.
RCMP Accreditation Letter
The Red Seal Notary RCMP accreditation letter (required by the Hong Kong police) can be conveniently found on our website so you can download it and include it in your application. See the link to the letter below.
Requirements for Ink and Roll Fingerprints
You can attend at one of our walk-in locations in Toronto, Mississauga or Ottawa with two pieces of valid government-issued identification and our knowledgeable fingerprint technicians will be happy to assist you with taking ink and roll fingerprints. Please visit our website at www.RedSealNotary.com or contact our helpful call center at 1-888-922-7325 for more information about our fingerprinting services.
Hong Kong Police Force Fingerprint Information
Certificate of No Criminal Conviction – Notes to Applicants outside HK | Hong Kong Police Force
Link to Red Seal Notary RCMP Accreditation Letter