How to Get Fingerprinting in Saudi Arabia 2026

Fingerprinting is already part of many government procedures in Saudi Arabia, particularly for Iqama and residency processes. But those biometric records are different from the fingerprinting required for international background checks.

An FBI, RCMP, or other foreign background check from Saudi Arabia can have its own fingerprinting and submission requirements. The official card, fingerprints capturing method, and submission route depend on the authority requesting the check. Here is how fingerprinting in Saudi Arabia works for international applications. 

Fingerprinting in Saudi Arabia is often required for two purposes - for local government procedures, or for applications submitted to authorities outside the kingdom.

Saudi government biometric services are used for identity verification. On the other hand, foreign authorities may need a separate fingerprint submission for criminal record checks, employment verification, immigration, licensing, and other applications.

Here are the most common international background checks and applications that require fingerprinting in Saudi Arabia: 

After ensuring which background check you need, the next step is verifying the correct fingerprinting form accepted by the receiving authority. A fingerprint card is not a universal document and the information required on it can also vary based on its purpose and destination country:

Not every fingerprinting option in Saudi Arabia is suitable for international background checks. The right option depends on whether you need a Saudi Police Clearance Certificate or a foreign background check such as an FBI or RCMP submission 

Depending on your destination country and whether you require a Saudi Police Clearance Certificate (Criminal Record Check) or a foreign background check, like an FBI Identity History Summary or RCMP Criminal Record Check, your processing routes will differ.

1. Saudi Police and Forensic Evidence Departments

This is for applicants who need to get fingerprinted officially by a local government authority. If you need to obtain a Saudi Criminal Records Report for domestic or specific international tracking, this can be an option for you. The process is managed by the state. 

Citizens and residents can access these services through the relevant government appointment channels. Saudi Arabia also provides a Criminal Records Report through Absher for citizens and residents. 

Note: This is a Saudi criminal-record service and is separate from fingerprint collection for an FBI, RCMP, or other foreign background check.  

2. Embassies and Consulates

Some applicants may also be able to obtain fingerprinting through a foreign embassy or consulate in Saudi Arabia. However, services vary by embassy or consulate, so applicants should confirm availability and appointment requirements before visiting. 

3. Private Fingerprinting Providers

Many applicants also prefer private fingerprinting companies to get fingerprinted for an international background check. These services are helpful for an overseas submission.

A private provider may be useful when applicants need:

• Ink fingerprint cards
• Guided fingerprint capture
• International background-check fingerprinting
• Need Multiple fingerprint sets
• Fingerprint quality checks and reviews
• Support with completing the fingerprint card

Note: The provider should be selected based on the destination authority's requirements, not simply on whether it offers fingerprinting.

Important for RCMP applicants: For RCMP applications, the distinction is important: the RCMP states that there are no RCMP-accredited private fingerprinting companies outside Canada. A private provider in Saudi Arabia therefore should not be described as “RCMP-accredited.” Instead, it may collect the paper fingerprints following the RCMP's process, after which an accredited Canadian company, such as Globeia Incorporated in Canada, handles the electronic submission.

4. Mobile Fingerprinting at Your Location

Mobile fingerprinting can be useful for applicants who have busy schedules or cannot easily travel to a fingerprinting office. A reliable mobile fingerprinting service in Saudi Arabia enables you to get your fingerprints collected at your home, office, or any preferred location and time. 

A trained associate brings the required fingerprinting equipment or card and captures the impressions at the applicant's location using the fingerprinting technique stated by the requesting authority. International applicants often choose mobile fingerprinting for its convenience and coordination support. 

5. Saudi Biometric and Self-Service Facilities

Saudi Arabia also offers biometric services for specific government transactions. For example, the National Platform's Biometrics Verification Service allows users to complete certain transactions through fingerprint and facial recognition using the Nafath application without visiting the relevant entity's headquarters.

Note: These services are convenient for Saudi government biometric verification. Do not treat them as a substitute for an international fingerprint-card appointment.

The total cost of an international fingerprinting or background check application in Saudi Arabia is conditional. It depends on various factors, including the destination country, type of background check, fingerprinting service, and any additional submission or document requirements: 

Note: Courier, service, and overall application charges are subject to change. Government fees are separate from any private service provider’s fingerprinting and coordination charges. So, the applicant should confirm the current price for their specific service before booking. 

International background check applications follow an entirely different process than a local government police check or verification. Whether you are applying for an FBI Background Check, RCMP Criminal Record Check or any other application, you must confirm the specific requirements of the authority.

Here are the steps applicants usually need to take to get fingerprinted in Saudi Arabia for an international background check: 

1. Confirming the Fingerprinting Requirements 

   Check the instructions provided by the requesting authority. Pay close attention to the officially required fingerprinting card or method. You should also confirm whether the completed card needs any specific signature, stamp, or provider information. 

2. Prepare the Required Documents 

   Different background checks may have varied document requirements. Have all the documents ready in advance before the appointment. This may include a fingerprinting card, valid government identification, and any application or reference information specified by the requesting authority. 

3. Arrange a Fingerprinting Appointment 

   After confirming all the requirements, arrange a reliable fingerprint collection appointment through a provider experienced in international background checks. The provider should be able to complete the process according to the specific guidelines stated by your requesting authority. According to the availability of the services, you can choose between an in-office or mobile fingerprinting appointment. 

4. Have Your Fingerprints Taken 

   The fingerprinting associate would use the required method and complete the form. For an FBI background check, ink-and-roll impressions of all ten fingers and flat impressions of all fingers simultaneously are required on the official fingerprint card. The associate should understand the requirements of different applications to avoid any rejections after the submission. 

5. Check the Completed Fingerprint Card 

   Before submitting the card, review the information and complete fingerprint impressions carefully. Check that your personal details are accurate and that any required signatures, provider information, stamps, or certifications have been completed. 

6. Follow the Receiving Authority’s Submission Instructions 

   Finding the right provider and fingerprint collection is the first step of the international background check application. After the appointment, the complete fingerprint card must be submitted to the requesting authority handling. Depending on the application, this may involve mailing the original card directly to the authority or using an approved submission route such as an RCMP-accredited company in Canada.

Arranging the correct fingerprinting card, understanding the requirements of the authority, managing international courier, and delivery often delays the application. Applicants usually find it confusing to manage everything on their own, especially with a strict deadline and busy schedules. This is where you need Globeia’s professional background check and fingerprinting support in Saudi Arabia: 

For a successful fingerprinting in Saudi Arabia, you must know what your application requires before you begin. A little preparation beforehand can make the process smoother and help you avoid issues that may affect your background check or international application timeline.

If you are unsure about the requirements for your specific application, getting the right guidance before your fingerprinting appointment can help you proceed with greater confidence.

Book your fingerprinting session in Saudi Arabia with Globeia for an aligned workflow and avoid unnecessary delays.