What You Need to Know About Rolled Fingerprints and When They’re Required

When people are told they need fingerprints, they often picture what they have seen in movies: an ink pad, a piece of paper, and each finger being rolled one by one.

In reality, times have changed.

Today, there are multiple types of fingerprinting, and the process is far more advanced than most people expect. The two most common options are digital fingerprinting and rolled fingerprints. While many people assume rolled prints are still done using ink, they are now typically captured digitally using LiveScan technology.

The key difference is what happens after your fingerprints are taken.

With rolled fingerprints, each finger is captured individually and rolled from side to side to record the full fingerprint, and those prints are then printed onto a fingerprint card for you to take and submit yourself. With digital fingerprinting, your fingerprints are captured using flat scans and submitted electronically on your behalf, often directly to the RCMP, with results sent back to you or the requesting organization.

Understanding this distinction is the first step in making sure you book the right service.

What Are Rolled Fingerprints?

Rolled fingerprints are a method of capturing fingerprints where each finger is rolled from one side to the other to record the full ridge pattern, including the edges of the fingerprint.

This is different from digital fingerprinting, where flat impressions are taken by pressing your fingers onto the scanner surface.

Even though technology has improved, the concept behind rolled fingerprints has not changed. The goal is to capture the most complete and detailed version of each fingerprint possible.

Today, most rolled prints are captured digitally and then printed onto an official fingerprint card, combining accuracy with the required physical format.

Rolled Fingerprints vs Digital Fingerprinting (How They Are Captured)

One of the most important differences between these two methods is how the fingerprints are actually taken.

With digital prints:

• Fingerprints are captured using flat impressions (often called ID flats)
• Typically done in three scans: right hand (four fingers), left hand (four fingers), and both thumbs
• Designed for fast, electronic submission

With rolled fingerprints:

• Each finger is captured individually
• The technician rolls each finger from one side to the other
• This captures the full fingerprint, including side ridge detail
• Prints are then placed onto a fingerprint card

This difference in capture method is why rolled prints are still required for certain applications that need maximum detail or a specific format.

Why Do Rolled Fingerprints Still Exist?

With digital fingerprinting becoming more common across Canada, many people assume paper fingerprint cards are no longer needed. However, rolled fingerprints continue to play an important role, especially when dealing with organizations outside of Canada.

Many foreign governments, international employers, and licensing bodies still require fingerprints to be submitted on a physical card. These organizations may not accept digital submissions or may require a very specific format.

Because of this, rolled prints remain a necessary and widely used service.

When Do You Need Rolled Fingerprints?

Rolled fingerprints are typically required when your fingerprints need to be submitted in a physical format rather than electronically.

Common situations include:

International Applications

Immigration, citizenship, or residency processes outside Canada often require fingerprint cards.

Foreign Employment

Employers in other countries may request paper fingerprints for background checks or security screening.

Visa and Travel Requirements

Certain visa applications require fingerprints submitted on official cards.

Adoption Files

International adoption processes commonly require rolled prints on specific forms.

Licensing Outside Canada

Some professions require fingerprint cards for licensing in other jurisdictions.

Legal Matters

Court or legal processes involving foreign authorities may require physical fingerprint submissions.

If your instructions mention mailing fingerprints or submitting a card, you likely need rolled fingerprints.

Ink Fingerprints vs Digitally Rolled Prints

Another common question is whether fingerprints are still taken using ink.

The answer is yes when required.

At Smith Security Inc., the standard process is to capture rolled prints digitally and then print them onto a fingerprint card. This provides better clarity, accuracy, and consistency.

However, some countries or agencies specifically require ink fingerprints. In those cases, fingerprints can still be taken using the traditional ink-and-paper method.

The key is always to follow the instructions provided by the requesting organization.

What Happens After Your Appointment?

With rolled fingerprints, you leave your appointment with your completed fingerprint card.

From there:

• You are responsible for submitting the fingerprints
• This may involve mailing or couriering documents
• You must follow the exact instructions provided

This is different from digital fingerprinting, where submissions are completed electronically by the provider.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Your fingerprinting appointment is usually quick when you arrive prepared.

However, overall timelines depend on:

• How quickly you submit your fingerprint card
• Mailing or courier times
• The processing speed of the receiving organization

Because rolled fingerprints are often used internationally, timelines can vary significantly.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

To ensure everything goes smoothly, bring:

• Two valid government-issued IDs
• At least one photo ID
• Your request letter or instructions
• Any fingerprint forms or templates
• Any file or reference numbers

Arriving prepared helps avoid delays and ensures your fingerprints meet the required specifications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many delays happen because of simple mistakes.

Avoid:

• Booking digital fingerprinting when rolled prints are required
• Not bringing the correct documents
• Submitting fingerprints incorrectly
• Assuming all fingerprinting services are the same
• Not confirming whether ink is required

If you are unsure, it is always better to ask before your appointment.

Can Rolled Fingerprints Be Converted to Digital?

Yes. If you already have fingerprint cards, they can often be converted into a digital submission using a CardScan service.

This is helpful if:

• You completed fingerprints elsewhere
• You were given ink prints but need electronic submission
• You are transitioning from a paper requirement to a digital one

Why Clients Choose Smith Security Inc.

Fingerprinting is often tied to something important, such as employment, travel, immigration, or legal processes. Getting it right matters. As an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting provider, we take your application seriously.

At Smith Security Inc., we provide:

• Professional and confidential service
• Both rolled fingerprints and digital fingerprinting options
• Guidance on choosing the correct service
• Support for Canadian and international requirements
• Accurate processing to help avoid delays

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment?

Yes. Appointments are required.

Are rolled fingerprints still used today?

Yes. They are commonly required for international and paper-based applications.

Are fingerprints still done with ink?

Yes, when required. Most are now captured digitally and printed.

Who submits my fingerprints?

You do. Rolled prints are provided to you for submission.

Final Thoughts: Understanding Rolled Fingerprints Matters

If you have been asked to complete fingerprinting, understanding the difference between rolled fingerprints and digital fingerprinting is essential.

Rolled prints are still a critical part of many international and paper-based processes. While the technology has improved, the requirement for physical fingerprint cards remains.

Choosing the correct service from the start helps avoid delays and ensures your application moves forward smoothly.

At Smith Security Inc., we help clients navigate this process every day. Whether you need rolled fingerprints, digital prints, or guidance on what to book, our team is here to help.

Request your appointment today and get your fingerprinting done right the first time.