Live Scan vs. Traditional Fingerprinting – What’s the Difference?

Live Scan vs. Traditional Fingerprinting – What’s the Difference
Los Angeles' EXPERT LIVE SCAN FINGERPRINTING

Live Scan vs. Traditional Fingerprinting
Which One Do You Need?

Are you unsure whether to choose Live Scan or traditional ink fingerprinting? While both methods are used for background checks, they differ in process, speed, and acceptance by various agencies. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences so you can decide which one is best for your needs.

What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting

Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting method that captures fingerprints electronically and sends them directly to government agencies like the DOJ (Department of Justice) and FBI for background checks.

When Is Live Scan Required?

Live Scan is commonly required for:

✔️ Employment background checks
✔️ State licensing (e.g., healthcare, teachers, real estate)
✔️ Volunteer positions (schools, nonprofits)
✔️ Legal purposes (court orders, adoptions)

Benefits of Live Scan

✔️ Fast Processing: Results in 24–72 hours
✔️ No Ink Required: No risk of smudges or rejections
✔️ Direct Submission: Sent electronically to the DOJ/FBI
✔️ Accurate & Secure: Reduces human error

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What Is Traditional Ink Fingerprinting?

Traditional fingerprinting involves using ink and paper fingerprint cards, which are physically mailed to the requesting agency.

When Is Ink Fingerprinting Required?

Ink fingerprinting is often required for:

✔️ Federal background checks (if Live Scan is not accepted)
✔️ Out-of-state licensing (some states do not accept Live Scan)
✔️ Immigration and visa applications
✔️ International employment and travel requirements

Benefits of Ink Fingerprinting

✔️ Nationwide & International Use – Required for federal & out-of-state applications
✔️ Accepted by More Agencies – Some organizations still require paper cards

Drawbacks of Ink Fingerprinting

❌ Slower Processing: Takes 1–2 weeks or more
❌ Risk of Errors: Smudges or rejections may require redoing prints
❌ No Digital Submission: Must be mailed manually

Comparison: Live Scan vs. Traditional Ink Fingerprinting

Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprinting: Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureLive ScanTraditional Ink
Fingerprint CaptureDigital (electronic scanner)Ink on paper fingerprint cards
Processing Time24–72 hours1–2 weeks (or longer)
Submission MethodElectronic (sent directly to DOJ/FBI)Must be mailed manually
AccuracyHigh (less prone to smudging/errors)Higher risk of smudges/rejections
Where It’s AcceptedCA state agencies, employersFederal agencies, out-of-state
Use for Background Checks?YesYes
International Use?NoYes

Which One Do You Need?

Choose Live Scan If You:

✅ Need a California background check for employment or licensing
✅ Require fingerprinting for DOJ, FBI, or law enforcement agencies
✅ Want fast processing with electronic submission

Choose Ink Fingerprinting If You:

✅ Are applying for a federal job or out-of-state license
✅ Need fingerprinting for immigration, visas, or travel
✅ Are submitting forms to agencies that do not accept Live Scan

Live Scan vs. Traditional Ink Fingerprinting

FAQs – Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprinting

Is Live Scan more accurate than ink fingerprinting?

Yes! Live Scan reduces smudging and rejection rates, making it more reliable than ink fingerprinting.

Yes, but only if the requesting agency allows it. Some federal agencies still require ink fingerprinting on FD-258 cards.

Most results are processed within 24–72 hours, while ink fingerprinting can take 1–2 weeks

Yes! We provide both services at our Rancho Cucamonga location.

No. Live Scan is generally only valid within California. Ink fingerprinting is required for out-of-state or international use

Need Fingerprinting? We’ve Got You Covered!

Schedule Your Appointment

Whether you need Live Scan or traditional ink fingerprinting, MR Fingerprints has the services you need:

✅ Same-day Live Scan appointments
✅ Ink fingerprinting on official FD-258 cards
✅ Mobile fingerprinting for businesses and groups

💡 Fast, Reliable, and Hassle-Free Live Scan
💻 Book Online: https://mrfingerprints.com/book-your-apointment/

Don’t wait — get fingerprinted today and keep your background check process moving smoothly!

Supporting Families: How Our Fingerprinting Services Align with Biden’s “Parole In Place” or “Keeping Families Together” Bill

August 18, 2024: Today marks a monumental day for immigrant families across the nation as President Biden’s “Keeping Families Together” bill has officially passed. This legislation is a significant victory for those who have been separated from their loved ones due to immigration enforcement policies. The bill prioritizes family reunification and aims to create a more compassionate and humane immigration system.

To address this pressing issue, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is introducing a new process to support certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens. This initiative will allow eligible individuals, who have resided in the United States for 10 years or more and who do not pose a threat to public safety or national security, to apply for lawful permanent residence without the need to leave the country.

This opportunity could potentially benefit around 500,000 noncitizen spouses, many of whom have lived in the U.S. for an average of 23 years. Additionally, approximately 50,000 of their children may also qualify for this process. However, noncitizens who are considered a threat to national security or public safety will not be eligible. In such cases, DHS will take necessary actions, including detention, removal, or referral to other federal agencies for further investigation or prosecution, in alignment with immigration enforcement priorities.

What the “Keeping Families Together” Bill Means for Immigrants

The newly passed bill addresses the critical issue of family separations, providing a pathway for families to reunite and remain together in the United States. It acknowledges the importance of family unity and the vital role immigrants play in building strong communities. However, to benefit from the bill’s provisions, families must undergo important legal processes, with the first step being background checks.

The First Step: Background Checks

To move forward under the new legislation, families must complete background checks to verify their identity and comply with legal requirements. This process is crucial in ensuring that families can remain together without facing unnecessary delays or complications. Our fingerprinting services are specifically tailored to meet these needs, providing a reliable and supportive environment during this critical time.

Why Start with Us?

Choosing our fingerprinting services means selecting a partner who understands the gravity of this moment for your family. We’re not just offering a service; we’re offering peace of mind as you navigate this important step. Here’s why our approach makes a difference:

  • Expertise and Precision: Our experienced team ensures that every fingerprint is captured accurately, meeting all federal requirements for immigration processes.
  • Convenient and Accessible: With multiple locations and flexible hours, we make it easy to fit fingerprinting into your schedule, so you can focus on what matters most—your family.
  • Commitment to Community: We are deeply invested in the well-being of immigrant families, and our services reflect our dedication to helping you stay together.

Under this initiative, PAROLE IN PLACE is available to NONCITIZENS present in the U.S. without admission or parole, allowing them to remain temporarily based on urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. If granted, these individuals may apply for adjustment of status to become lawful permanent residents without leaving the United States. DHS estimates that approximately 500,000 noncitizen spouses and 50,000 noncitizen stepchildren of U.S. citizens could benefit from this process.

Eligibility

To be considered for a discretionary grant of parole in place under Keeping Families Together, you must meet these eligibility criteria:

If you are the noncitizen spouse of a U.S. citizen, you must:

  • Be present in the United States without admission or parole;
  • Have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June 17, 2014, through the date of filing your request;
  • Have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024;
  • Have no disqualifying criminal history and otherwise not deemed to be a threat to public safety, national security, or border security; and
  • Submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security and public safety vetting.

If you are the noncitizen stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you must:

  1. Submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security and public safety vetting.
  2. Have been under the age of 21 and unmarried on June 17, 2024;
  3. Be present in the United States without admission or parole;
  4. Have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June 17, 2024, through the date of filing your request;
  5. Have a noncitizen parent who entered into a legally valid marriage with a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before your 18th birthday;
  6. Have no disqualifying criminal history and otherwise not deemed to be a threat to public safety, national security, or border security*; and

To be eligible, noncitizen spouses must meet several criteria, including continuous physical presence in the U.S. since June 17, 2014, a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen by June 17, 2024, and a clean criminal record. Stepchildren must meet similar criteria, with additional requirements regarding their age and marital status as of June 17, 2024.

Applicants for parole in place must submit Form I-131F online, along with the necessary documentation and a filing fee. The process includes biometrics submission and rigorous background checks to ensure the integrity of the program and prevent fraudulent claims.

Once granted parole in place, individuals may be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). However, it’s important to note that a grant of parole does not automatically qualify individuals for other immigration benefits, such as lawful permanent resident status. Each case is evaluated individually, considering factors such as criminal history, national security concerns, and overall eligibility.

The “Keeping Families Together” initiative represents a significant step forward in preserving family unity and ensuring that noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens can remain together in the United States.

Moving Forward Together

With the “Keeping Families Together” bill now in effect, it’s more important than ever to take the necessary steps to secure your family’s future. We are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you have everything you need to comply with the new requirements.

Start your journey with us today by booking an appointment. Click HERE to schedule your fingerprinting session with one of our professionals, and let’s move forward together, keeping families united and strong.

At your service,

THE MR. FINGERPRINTS TEAM

 

Traveling Abroad? What’s an Apostille and why do I need it? Mr. Fingerprints can help

What is an Apostille?

what is an apostille
 
In an increasingly interconnected world, the need for official documents to be recognized across international borders is more critical than ever. Whether you’re pursuing education abroad, conducting international business, or relocating to a new country, ensuring your documents are legally valid in a foreign jurisdiction is paramount. This is where the apostille comes into play, serving as a crucial bridge for international document authentication.
 
An apostille is a specialized certificate issued by an authority (typically the Secretary of State or a similar designated body) in a country that is a signatory to the Hague Convention of 1961. Its primary purpose is to authenticate the origin of a public document (e.g., a birth certificate, marriage license, diploma, or power of attorney) so that it can be recognized as legitimate in another signatory country without further legalization by a consulate or embassy. Essentially, it verifies the signature and seal of the official who issued the document, streamlining the process of international document acceptance and preventing potential legal or administrative hurdles.

Why Do You Need an Apostille?

When traveling abroad, especially for extended periods, or engaging in international transactions, you will frequently encounter situations where foreign authorities require proof that your official documents are authentic. Without an apostille, your documents might be rejected, leading to significant delays, complications, or even the failure of your international endeavors. An apostille ensures that your documents are recognized as legitimate and valid in the foreign country, preventing potential legal or administrative issues across a wide range of scenarios:
 
  • Visa Applications: Many countries require apostilled documents for long-term visas, such as work or residency permits.
  • Education: Enrolling in foreign universities or schools often necessitates apostilled diplomas, transcripts, and other academic records.
  • Employment: Securing a job overseas typically requires apostilled professional licenses, background checks, and educational certificates.
  • Legal Matters: International adoptions, court proceedings, or property transactions often demand apostilled legal documents like powers of attorney or affidavits.
  • Business Transactions: Establishing a foreign subsidiary, opening international bank accounts, or engaging in cross-border contracts may require apostilled corporate documents.
  • Personal Status: Marriage licenses, birth certificates, and death certificates often need apostilles for recognition in foreign countries for purposes like marriage, citizenship, or inheritance.

Understanding Apostille Services

An apostille is a form of authentication issued to documents for use in countries that participate in the Hague Convention of 1961. The process involves verifying the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the person signing the document has acted, and, where appropriate, the identity of the seal or stamp which the document bears. This ensures it meets the standards required by the receiving country, simplifying what was once a complex, multi-step legalization process.
Common documents that frequently require an apostille include:
 
  • Personal Documents: Birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, divorce decrees, adoption papers.
  • Educational Documents: Diplomas, transcripts, degrees, letters of enrollment.
  • Business Documents: Articles of incorporation, certificates of good standing, powers of attorney, commercial invoices.
  • Legal Documents: Affidavits, notarized agreements, court orders, patents.
apostille downtown los angeles

What Does an Apostille Look Like?

An apostille is typically a separate certificate attached to the original document. It may appear as a stamped page, a printed form, or a digitally issued certificate, depending on the issuing authority.
 
The apostille usually includes:

This standardized format allows foreign authorities to immediately recognize the document as authentic.

In today’s globalized world, the need for efficient and reliable apostille services has never been greater. Whether you’re traveling abroad, conducting international business, or pursuing education opportunities overseas, having your documents authenticated is a crucial step. At Mr. Fingerprints, we specialize in providing top-notch apostille services that are efficient, reliable, and tailored to meet your needs. Here are the top five reasons why Mr. Fingerprints should be your go-to choice for apostille authentication.

What Does an Apostille Mean?

In simple terms, an apostille means that an official document has been verified for international use. When a document is apostilled, it confirms that the signature, seal, or stamp on the document is legitimate and issued by a recognized authority.

In other words, an apostille tells a foreign government: “This document is real, official, and can be trusted.”

What Does an Apostille Do?

An apostille allows a public document issued in one country to be legally recognized in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
 
Without an apostille, many foreign authorities will refuse to accept documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, diplomas, or powers of attorney. The apostille eliminates the need for additional embassy or consular legalization, saving time and reducing complexity.

The Hague Apostille Convention: A Global Standard

The Hague Convention of 5 October 1961 Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents, commonly known as the Apostille Convention, revolutionized the process of authenticating documents for international use. Before this convention, a document intended for use in a foreign country often had to go through a lengthy and cumbersome “legalization” process, involving multiple certifications by various government agencies and the foreign country’s embassy or consulate.

The Convention introduced the apostille as a single, standardized certification that is recognized by all signatory countries. This significantly reduces the time, cost, and complexity involved in cross-border document verification. Over 120 countries are now party to the Hague Convention, making the apostille a widely accepted and trusted form of authentication for public documents.
 
It’s important to note that if a document is intended for use in a country that is *not* a signatory to the Hague Convention, a different process called “consular legalization” or “attestation” is typically required. This involves certification by the foreign country’s embassy or consulate in the document‘s country of origin, a process that Mr. Fingerprints can also guide you through.
los angeles apostille services

Steps to Get Your Documents Apostilled with Mr. Fingerprints

Here’s a simple overview of the steps involved in getting your documents apostilled with Mr. Fingerprints, ensuring a smooth and efficient process:
  • Document Submission: Begin by providing us with the original documents that require apostille certification. Our team will review them to ensure they meet the necessary criteria for authentication.
  • Verification and Preparation: Our experienced team meticulously verifies the authenticity of the documents and prepares all the necessary accompanying paperwork, ensuring everything is in order for submission to the appropriate authorities.
  • Notarization (if required): Many documents, especially those signed by individuals (e.g., powers of attorney, affidavits), must be notarized by a public notary before they can receive an apostille. If your documents require notarization, we can facilitate this crucial step.
  • Apostille Certification: We expertly submit the documents to the designated state or federal authorities (e.g., the Secretary of State‘s office) responsible for issuing the apostille certificate. We manage the entire submission and tracking process on your behalf.
  • Return of Documents: Once the apostille is successfully obtained and affixed to your documents, we promptly return the authenticated documents to you, ready for international use.

Apostille Services in Los Angeles

Mr. Fingerprints provides professional apostille services in Los Angeles, assisting individuals and businesses throughout Downtown Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Our local expertise allows us to handle state-level and federal apostille requirements efficiently while ensuring full compliance with California and U.S. regulations.
 
By working with a local apostille service provider, clients benefit from faster processing times, direct communication, and personalized guidance throughout the authentication process.

Why Choose Mr. Fingerprints for Your Apostille Needs?

Selecting the right service provider for your apostille needs is crucial for ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and peace of mind. Mr. Fingerprints stands out as a premier choice, offering a comprehensive solution backed by expertise and a client-focused approach.

1. Expertise and Experience

Mr. Fingerprints brings a wealth of expertise and extensive experience to the table. Our team of dedicated professionals is deeply well-versed in the intricate nuances of the apostille process, understanding the specific requirements of various document types and destination countries. We ensure that your documents are handled with the utmost care and precision, adhering strictly to the latest regulations and legal requirements. This profound expertise minimizes the risk of errors, rejections, or delays that could otherwise impede your document processing and international plans.

2. Streamlined Process

We understand that navigating the apostille process can often appear daunting and time-consuming. At Mr. Fingerprints, we have meticulously developed a streamlined, end-to-end process designed to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible for you. Once you submit your documents, our dedicated team takes charge of everything – from initial verification and notarization (if needed) to liaising directly with the appropriate state or federal authorities. This comprehensive, hands-off approach saves you invaluable time and effort, guaranteeing that your documents are authenticated correctly and efficiently, without you having to manage complex bureaucratic steps.

3. Personalized Service

Personalized service is not just a promise; it is at the core of everything we do. We recognize that each client’s needs are unique, and we are committed to tailoring our services to meet those specific requirements. Our knowledgeable staff is readily available to answer all your questions, provide regular updates on your document‘s status, and guide you comprehensively through each step of the apostille process. This unwavering commitment to personalized service ensures that you receive the dedicated support, clear communication, and precise information you need, fostering confidence and clarity throughout the entire journey.

4. Quick Turnaround Time

Timely document authentication is often critical, especially when dealing with urgent international matters such as visa deadlines, job offers, or educational enrollments. Mr. Fingerprints is deeply committed to providing quick turnaround times without ever compromising on the quality or accuracy of our service. Our highly efficient internal processes, coupled with our established network and direct channels with issuing authorities, enable us to expedite the apostille process significantly. This ensures that you receive your authenticated documents promptly, allowing you to meet your crucial deadlines and proceed with your international plans without unnecessary stress or delay.

5. Competitive Pricing

While the unparalleled quality and reliability of our service are paramount, we also firmly understand the importance of affordability. Mr. Fingerprints offers highly competitive pricing for all our apostille services, ensuring exceptional value for your investment. We are dedicated to making reliable and efficient document authentication accessible to all our clients, providing transparent pricing without hidden fees. Our goal is to deliver premium service that is both high-quality and economically sensible, ensuring you receive the best possible service without breaking your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Apostilles

To apostille a document means to certify it for international use by verifying the authenticity of the signature, seal, or stamp on the document. An apostille confirms that the document is official and legally valid for use in another country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, without requiring further embassy or consular legalization.

Most public and notarized documents can be apostilled, including:
  • Birth certificates
  • Marriage certificates
  • Death certificates
  • Divorce decrees
  • Adoption documents
  • Diplomas and academic transcripts
  • Powers of attorney (POA)
  • Affidavits
  • Court orders
  • Business documents (articles of incorporation, certificates of good standing, commercial invoices)
Some documents may require notarization before they are eligible for an apostille.
No. Apostilles are only accepted by countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. Countries that are part of the Convention recognize apostilles as a valid form of document authentication.
If a document is intended for use in a country that is not a member of the Hague Convention, it must go through a different process known as consular legalization or attestation, which typically involves certification by the Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State, and the destination country’s embassy or consulate.

Notarization is the act of a notary public certifying the authenticity of a signature on a document, confirming the signer’s identity. An apostille, on the other hand, is a higher level of authentication issued by a government authority (like the Secretary of State) that verifies the authenticity of the notary‘s signature and seal (or other public official’s signature and seal) so that the document can be accepted in a foreign country that is part of the Hague Convention.

The turnaround time for an apostille can vary significantly depending on the issuing authority (state vs. federal), the specific document, and the current volume of requests. At Mr. Fingerprints, we leverage our streamlined processes and experience to expedite this as much as possible, often completing requests much faster than direct submission to government agencies. We will provide an estimated timeline upon document submission.

Only “public documents” as defined by the Hague Convention are eligible for an apostille. This generally includes documents issued by a government authority, notarized documents, or documents signed by an official capacity. Private documents often need to be notarized first to become eligible for an apostille.

If your document is intended for use in a country that is not a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention, it will require a process called “consular legalization” or “attestation.” This involves multiple certifications, typically by the Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State, and finally, the embassy or consulate of the destination country. Mr. Fingerprints can also assist you with this more complex legalization process.

Ready to Authenticate Your Documents?

Don’t let international bureaucracy slow you down. Contact Mr. Fingerprints today for expert, efficient, and reliable apostille services.
 
Choosing the right service for your apostille needs is essential to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of your document authentication. Mr. Fingerprints combines unparalleled expertise, a highly streamlined process, truly personalized service, quick turnaround times, and competitive pricing to provide a comprehensive and reliable solution for all your international document authentication requirements.
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