Live Scan vs Ink & Roll Fingerprinting: Which Works Best for Immigration and Federal Background Checks?
Fingerprinting is one of those steps everyone dreads. It feels technical, time-sensitive, and a little intimidating. But whether you’re applying for a visa, completing a federal background check, or getting licensed for a new career, fingerprints are often required.
The big question clients ask us at Stone Notary is: Should I choose Live Scan or traditional ink fingerprinting? Let’s break it down in plain English.
1. What is Live Scan?
Live Scan is a digital method where your fingerprints are captured on an electronic scanner. No ink, no cards. The image gets sent directly to the requesting agency, often speeding up the process.
✅ Pros:
Faster results
No messy ink
Immediate electronic submission
❌ Cons:
Not accepted everywhere, especially for federal or out-of-state purposes
Limited to agencies connected to the system
Requires specialized equipment (not always mobile)
2. What is Ink & Roll?
Ink fingerprinting is the traditional method: your fingers are rolled in ink and then pressed onto a physical FD-258 card.
✅ Pros:
Accepted everywhere (state, federal, international)
Standard for FBI background checks, visa applications, and consular processes
Portable — mobile notaries like us can bring the materials to you
❌ Cons:
Takes longer for results if mailed
Can be smudged if done incorrectly
3. Immigration Needs: Which Works Best?
For most immigration cases or overseas document submissions, ink fingerprints are the gold standard. Consulates, embassies, and international organizations often require physical FD-258 cards with inked prints.
Live Scan may work for certain immigration steps if the destination country or agency accepts digital files, but it’s not the safest choice if you’re working on a deadline.
4. Federal Background Checks: Which Method is Required?
The FBI Identity History Summary Check (often called an FBI background check) accepts both:
Live Scan: Faster if submitted electronically through an approved channeler
Ink & Roll: Still required if you need a hard copy, certified version, or an apostille for international use
If your FBI background check is for immigration, travel, or adoption abroad, ink is the way to go.
5. Why Stone Notary Clients Choose Ink & Roll
At Stone Notary, we focus on mobile ink fingerprinting because:
It’s the most universally accepted method
It pairs seamlessly with federal background checks and apostille services
We can complete it on-site at your home, office, or other convenient location
We provide FD-258 cards and ensure the prints are clear, legible, and compliant
Fingerprinting doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is knowing whether your situation calls for Live Scan or ink. For immigration and federal background checks, ink still reigns supreme.
At Stone Notary, we bring professional ink fingerprinting directly to you — helping you check this requirement off your list with confidence.
📞 Call/Text: 754-217-0444
📧 stone.notary@gmail.com
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