International fingerprinting carries a different level of expectation. A fingerprint submission that works for a local verification may not meet the quality or format requirements of an overseas authority. This is because different countries and organizations have their own standards for fingerprint capture, documentation, and submission, and they are very strict about it. So, even small mistakes can lead to delays or rejected applications.
For this reason, when you're applying for immigration, a foreign criminal record check, employment, or professional licensing, choosing the right fingerprinting provider matters. In this blog, we'll explain what to look for in international fingerprinting services in Chennai and how to reduce the chances of your fingerprints being rejected the first time.
At first, fingerprinting may seem like an easy process. But the requirements for an international application can be very different from those for a local background check or police verification in Chennai. If your fingerprints are intended for use outside India, it's important to familiarize yourself with the destination country or organization, as it sets the standards you must meet.
Fingerprinting for Domestic Requirements
While seeking fingerprinting services in Chennai for a domestic purpose, say,
You’re operating within an Indian framework. The standards here are set by Indian authorities, who care about accurate identity verification within the national system. The forms are Indian forms. The approved capture methods follow specifications laid out by agencies that Indian fingerprinting services in Chennai deal with every single day.
For these, identity documents like Aadhaar, PAN, or voter ID are accepted because the verifying authority recognises and trusts them.
When your fingerprints are headed to an authority outside India, the rules change. The agency requesting your fingerprints sets the standards you must follow.
For example, you may need fingerprints for:
Each authority has its own requirements for how fingerprints should be captured and submitted. For applicants outside the respective countries, the request is mostly for physical ink fingerprints. They also specify the fingerprint form to use, the information that must be completed, and the identity documents that should accompany the application.
What this implies is simply getting fingerprints isn't enough. They must be captured and prepared according to the requesting organization's instructions.
Once you’ve got a clear idea of the country or organization or authority that is requesting your fingerprints, choose a fingerprinting provider that understands those specific requirements.
Where most Chennai applicants go wrong is they book the nearest fingerprinting appointment without checking whether the provider regularly handles international submissions. Before booking, confirm who requested your fingerprints and whether the Chennai provider is familiar with that process.
What Should You Confirm Before Booking Your Fingerprinting Appointment
| Document or Application | Confirm This |
| RCMP Criminal Record Check (Canada) | Whether your fingerprints are C-216C or equivalent forms. Also ask if they will return the forms to you or can send them to an accredited entity in Canada for submission to the RCMP. |
| FBI Identity History Summary Check (USA) | Whether fingerprints will be captured on the FD-258/FD-1164 Fingerprint Card and completed according to FBI requirements. |
| FINRA Registration | Whether they know how to complete FINRA-compliant fingerprinting forms that your US‑based firm can submit |
| Australian National Police Check / Immigration Application | Whether they will capture rolled ink impressions on the exact Australian Federal Police form and know the correct requirements for applicants sending from India. |
| New Zealand Police Vetting or Criminal Record Request | Whether fingerprints need to be captured on the New Zealand Police Fingerprint Form (NZP 218) or another specified form. |
| Overseas Visa, Immigration, or Work Permit Applications | Whether any embassy-specific forms, photographs, or supporting documents are needed. |
For an overseas application, there are a few options available in Chennai.
1. State Crime Records Bureau (SCRB), Tamil Nadu Police
For certain international applications, fingerprinting may be available through the State Crime Records Bureau (SCRB), Tamil Nadu Police. For example, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India lists the SCRB in Chennai as a location where private citizens can obtain fingerprints for U.S.-related purposes.
According to the embassy's guidance, applicants should:
Since procedures, fees, and operating hours can change, it's advisable to contact the SCRB before visiting or refer to the latest guidance published by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India.
2. Private International Fingerprinting Centres
Many applicants prefer private providers, particularly when they need fingerprints for authorities such as the RCMP, FBI, FINRA, or overseas immigration departments. These providers often assist with country-specific fingerprint cards and requirements.
Some also offer appointment flexibility and mobile fingerprinting services, making them a convenient option for applicants with specific scheduling or location requirements.
3. Fingerprinting at Your Location in Chennai
If travelling to a fingerprinting centre isn't practical for you, Globeia’s mobile fingerprinting in Chennai is another popular option. Instead of visiting a fixed location, a trained associate comes to your home, office, hotel, or another agreed location to capture your fingerprints with all the required equipment.
Anyone can choose to get fingerprinted at their location for convenience, but it becomes most helpful for:
The service follows the same appointment process as an in-office visit, with the added convenience of eliminating travel and waiting time.
| Chennai's IT Corridor | Central Chennai | South Chennai | West Chennai | Greater Chennai & Nearby Areas |
| Perungudi | Nungambakkam | Adyar | Anna Nagar | Tambaram |
| Thoraipakkam | T. Nagar | Velachery | Mogappair | Chromepet |
| Karapakkam | Egmore | Besant Nagar | Porur | Pallavaram |
| Sholinganallur | Mylapore | Guindy | Ambattur | Avadi |
| Navalur | Royapettah | Saidapet | Koyambedu | Guduvanchery |
| Siruseri | Alwarpet | Pallikaranai | Maduravoyal | Kelambakkam |
| Taramani | Kilpauk | Medavakkam | Iyyappanthangal | Vandalur |
| - | Chetpet | ECR (selected locations) | Nolambur | Poonamallee |
Looking for an appointment outside these areas?
If your location isn't listed above, get in touch with Globeia before booking. Depending on availability and travel distance, mobile fingerprinting appointments may also be arranged in other parts of the Chennai metropolitan region.
Depending on your application, Globeia can assist with fingerprinting for RCMP (Canada), FBI (USA), FINRA, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and many other international police checks, immigration, employment, licensing, and visa requirements. Before your appointment, our team will confirm the fingerprint card, documentation, and any country-specific requirements applicable to your application.
While the fingerprint cards and certain requirements for various applications are different, here's what a usual fingerprinting appointment with our associate in Chennai looks like:
| 1. Book Your Appointment | Schedule your fingerprinting appointment online by selecting a convenient date, time, and location in Chennai for either a centre visit or a mobile appointment. |
| 2. Complete Face ID Verification | Before your appointment is confirmed, you'll complete a Face ID verification through Globeia's SmartPortal. This step digitally verifies your identity and securely links your fingerprint collection to a verified individual. |
| 3. Fingerprinting Appointment | Once your identity has been verified, a trained Globeia associate arrives with the required fingerprint cards, professional ink materials, and a documentation checklist. Fingerprints are captured using the rolled ink impression techniques. The process itself may take just 15–20 minutes if you’re well-prepared, with an on-the-spot quality review to ensure clear, complete impressions. |
| 4. Submission Coordination (Where Applicable) | Globeia can coordinate submissions for RCMP Criminal Record Checks through Globeia Incorporated in Canada and FBI Identity History Summary Checks through Globeia Inc. in the USA. For FINRA and other international applications, we return professionally completed fingerprint cards, ready for submission to the relevant authority. |
| 5. Letter of Identity Verification | Every completed appointment includes a Globeia Letter of Identity Verification. This document confirms that your fingerprints were collected under Globeia's identity verification protocols from a verified individual. It is not issued by, endorsed by, or affiliated with any government authority, but may accompany your application where proof of identity verification is required. |
Having everything ready before your appointment helps ensure the process is completed smoothly and reduces the risk of delays. You will need to bring the original:
Valid Passport
For most international fingerprinting applications, your passport serves as the primary proof of identity. The personal information recorded on your fingerprint card should match the details on your passport exactly.
Secondary Government-Issued ID (If Required)
Some applications may require an additional government-issued identity document for verification. This could include an Aadhaar card, driver's licence, or another valid photo ID, depending on the requirements of the requesting authority.
Request Letter or Email
Carry any request letter, email, or application instructions you've received from the requesting authority, employer, embassy, or immigration department. These documents often contain important details about the fingerprinting format, supporting documents, or submission process.
Passport-Sized Photographs (If Applicable)
While not required for every application, some countries and organizations ask applicants to submit passport-sized photographs along with their fingerprint cards. It's worth checking your instructions beforehand so you can bring them if needed.
Not sure what to bring? Globeia can review your application requirements before your appointment and help you confirm the documents and any country-specific instructions.
Read How to Prepare for Your Mobile Fingerprinting Appointment?
Even if your fingerprints have been captured correctly, improper handling afterwards can result in delays or the need for a new appointment. Once you leave your fingerprinting session, taking a few simple precautions can help ensure your application reaches its destination in the same condition it left the appointment.
Don't Fold or Crease the Card: Fingerprint cards should remain flat. Folding or creasing the card can damage fingerprint impressions or make it difficult for the receiving authority to scan or review them.
Keep the Card Clean and Dry: Avoid exposing the card to moisture, dirt, food, or excessive handling. Fingerprint impressions should remain clear and free from stains, smudges, or marks.
Don't Write on the Fingerprint Area: If you need to complete additional information, only write in the designated fields. Never write, staple, stamp, or place labels over the fingerprint impressions.
Double-Check Your Personal Information: Before sending your fingerprint card, review all personal details carefully. Make sure your name, date of birth, passport number (where applicable), signatures, and other required fields match your supporting documents.
Package It Properly: Place the fingerprint card in a sturdy document envelope or folder to prevent bending during transit. If you're mailing it internationally, avoid rolling or folding the document to fit smaller envelopes.
If Globeia is coordinating your submission for RCMP or FBI, your fingerprint card will be handled according to the relevant submission process.
Your fingerprint appointment may only take 20 minutes, but the impact of those 20 minutes can extend to the entire timeline of your application. A well-prepared appointment can keep your immigration, employment, licensing, or background check process moving forward.
Knowing what to expect, bringing the right documents, and choosing a provider experienced with international requirements are all steps that help you apply successfully. If you need guidance before booking, Globeia's team can help you understand exactly what's required for your destination country or organization.
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