Canada Criminal Records: Processing Times for RCMP Checks for Spanish Visa Applications

Last Updated on April 18, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi

Question

“I’m wondering what the current processing time is for getting a criminal records check and fingerprints apostilled through GAC? I’m in the process of applying for a self-employment/autonomo visa, and I’m not yet at the point in the application process where I have to get a records check done, but I’ve heard that the wait times for apostilles through GAC are really long.

Are there any alternatives to going through GAC for an RCMP check? I’d also really like to connect with others who are applying for an autonomo visa. It’s quite an involved process, and I’d love to find out from others if they have any tips for making it go more easily. Thanks so much!”

Answers

These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:

“On the website, it says as of September 23rd 2024, they were only taking 10 business days to process documents.”

“So, there’s no need to send it to the Embassy of Canada in Madrid anymore.” – “No, it’s probably faster to send it to Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa now.”

“It takes about 2-3 weeks, depending on if you mail it express or not.”

Conclusion

In recent months, processing times for Canadian criminal record checks for use in Spain have significantly improved. Global Affairs Canada (GAC) recently streamlined their processes, now offering a faster, 10-business-day turnaround for document apostilles.

This update marks a major shift from the previous months-long delays, providing much-needed relief for Canadians needing this documentation to support their visa applications.

For those applying for visas like the Spanish self-employment (autónomo) visa, a criminal record check from the RCMP, authenticated and apostilled by GAC, is mandatory. Canadians can send their documents directly to GAC in Ottawa, using secure carriers like UPS or DHL for quicker delivery. The overall processing, including mail time, now takes approximately two to three weeks when using express shipping.

This streamlined process means applicants can avoid delays that previously caused records to expire, a common frustration. Some Canadians previously opted to have their documents apostilled at the Embassy of Canada in Madrid to save time. However, with GAC’s recent update, mailing documents directly to GAC is now the preferred, quicker option for most.

What Has Changed?

With GAC now able to process and apostille criminal records and other Canadian documents in just 10 business days, Canadians applying for Spanish visas can expect a faster and more efficient process. This improvement not only saves time but also reduces the stress of navigating Spanish consular services. If you’re preparing for a move to Spain, this update allows for better planning and a quicker response for official documentation needs.

To ensure you have the latest information on processing times and requirements, always check the official GAC website before submitting your documents.

Bruno Bianchi CEO & Spain Immigration Expert

Bruno Bianchi is the founder and CEO of Spainguru, Spain's largest expat immigration community with 150,000+ members. Since 2014 he has helped thousands of people relocate to Spain through expert guides, webinars and vetted professional services covering visas, residency, taxes and life in Spain.

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