RCMP check - is it always needed?

[eletyl]

I was wondering if RCMP checks are always requested if you have lived in Canada more than 6 months?  I've read about it a few places here.. I've been in Canada almost 2 years (and submitted my application 6 months ago), however my lawyer never asked me to get them done.

should I consider preemptively going out and getting them, or should I only do it if asked? and how often do they ask?

thanks!!

[Canaswiss]

I'm no expert but I have submitted my application through Paris and I had to provide criminal records of all the countries I've lived in for more than 6 months except Canada. As I understand it they have access to your Canadian criminal records and therefore it's not necessary to provide the ones from Canada.

[CandC2009]

I believe its only if they ask you for it...but i'm not 100% on that

[rjessome]

You can get one and submit it with your application if you wish but it is not necessary.  CIC will run their own checks through the RCMP.  A fingerprint check will be requested if your name and date of birth matches or is very close to a person who has had criminality issues as they will want to assure themselves that it is not you.  It's not requested often but it happens.