Building your Plan-B or even moving abroad will require you to submit certain documents, often including proof of a clean criminal record. In today’s world, criminal record checks have become an essential component for various processes and applications. In particular, if you want to migrate to a new country, an official criminal history record, or the lack thereof, is typically a mandatory requirement.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining your criminal record check in the United States, which will ultimately help you build a successful Plan-B outside your home country. Regardless of the type of criminal record you need to submit, you will find out how to proceed in each case, so read on to find all the details.
The FBI background check is a solid option if you're looking for a more comprehensive screening, as it includes information from local, state, and federal authorities
A criminal record check is an official document that reports an individual’s criminal history, including arrests, convictions, and sometimes charges that did not result in conviction. The purpose of this report is essentially to prove whether a citizen has had good conduct, with information compiled from various sources, such as police departments and state law enforcement agencies.
In the U.S., you can come across various types of criminal record checks, so you must pick one that suits your specific circumstances:
Local Criminal Record Check: This type of check focuses on criminal records within a specific locality, such as a city or county. It is often conducted by local police departments or sheriff’s offices.
State Criminal Record Check: The state's police agencies conduct a state criminal record check, which includes information from county and city law enforcement agencies within that state.
FBI Background Check: An FBI background check, also known as a federal criminal record check or rap sheet, is a detailed report on an individual’s criminal history in the entire country. As such, it is more comprehensive than state or local checks as it involves information from local, state and federal authorities.
The first step for obtaining your criminal record check is determining which one you need. This choice depends on the entity requesting the check, such as an employer or immigration authority.
A local check is suitable if the requirement is limited to a specific locality, such as a city or county. This is often needed for local employment or volunteering. If your requirement is specific to activities within a particular state, opt for a state criminal check. This is typically required for local employment, licensing or volunteering.
Finally, an FBI background check is probably the best option if you need the most thorough background check available, encompassing local, state and federal information. This is often necessary for certain immigration processes.
Once you have identified the type of check required, the next step is to gather all necessary documents. Having everything prepared in advance will streamline the application process. Among other data, you need the following:
Full legal name (including any previous names);
Date of birth;
Social Security number;
Contact information (address, phone number, email);
Government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport);
Birth certificate (if required);
Proof of residence (such as utility bills or lease agreements);
A list of all addresses you have lived at for the past 5-10 years, including residence dates. This is particularly important for national and state checks, as they may require a comprehensive history of your residences.
Each state in the U.S. has its own procedures and requirements for obtaining a criminal record check. It's important to research and understand these specifics to ensure you comply with all necessary steps. Here are some information to know where to start:
Identify the agency responsible for criminal record checks in your state. This is usually the state police, justice department, or a similar entity. For example, in New York, you would go to the Division of Criminal Justice Services.
Determine whether you need to apply online, by mail, or in person. Some states offer multiple options, while others may require a specific method.
Download and complete any required forms. Ensure you have all necessary documentation, such as identification and proof of residence, as specified by the state agency.
Check if fingerprinting is required for your state. If so, find out where you can get your fingerprints taken (e.g., police station, authorized fingerprinting service) and follow the state’s instructions for submitting them.
Once you submit your request for an FBI Identification Record, you will receive a response. If no records are found, the response will indicate "no record." Otherwise, you will be provided with an identification record or rap sheet
Now that you know that there are many types of criminal background checks, you might wonder which one you need for moving abroad. The answer is typically the FBI background check, and here’s how you can request it:
Complete the FBI Criminal History Summary Request Form. The basic information you need to fill out is:
Name;
Date of birth;
Complete mailing address (including the office of a legal representative, if applicable);
Phone number or email address (optional).
Also, don’t forget to date and sign the form and have everyone involved sign (spouse, family, etc.).
Use the FBI fingerprint ink card to have your fingerprints taken. You can do so on that card at some Live Scan locations or other legal services agencies. Before heading out, call the authorized fingerprinting service in your area and ask:
Do they offer ink card fingerprinting for FBI record checks?
What is the cost of fingerprinting services?
What type of identification or documentation do they require?
Also, include your name and date of birth on the fingerprint card.
Make an $18 USD payment, whether a money order or cashier’s check for $18 USD, payable to the Treasury of the United States or the Credit Card Payment Form to pay by credit card. Also, note that:
Cash, personal checks, or business checks are NOT accepted;
The payment must be exact. If you're making a request for multiple people (like a couple or family), include $18 USD for each person.
Review the FBI Identification Record Request Checklist to ensure you've included everything necessary to process your request:
A signed and completed applicant information form;
A completed fingerprint card;
Payment of $18 USD.
You must submit your request to the FBI through one of the following ways:
Mail: FBI CJIS Division: Summary Request, 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306
If you're submitting a request electronically, you can visit a participating U.S. Post Office to submit your fingerprints electronically. Be sure to call ahead to confirm they offer this service, as there may be a fee. First, visit https://www.edo.cjis.gov and then follow the steps under the "Obtaining Your Identity History Summary" section.
After submitting your request for an FBI Identification Record, you'll receive a response based on their findings. If there's no record, you'll get a "no record" response. If a criminal history is found, they'll send an identification record or rap sheet.
If you request by mail, it typically takes two to four weeks, whereas electronic submissions are usually processed within three to five business days after the request is received. The FBI will send the results directly to the person who requested the record.
The FBI verification process involves collecting essential documents, obtaining fingerprints, and submitting the application with the required payment. Carefully follow all the steps to ensure a smooth application process
Obtaining a criminal record check in the United States is an important step for various purposes, including moving abroad. The most comprehensive option is the FBI background check. The process involves gathering essential documents, getting your fingerprints taken, and submitting a request with the necessary payment. Make sure to follow the steps carefully to ensure that your request is processed smoothly.
In summary, whether you're preparing for a new opportunity abroad or need to meet specific legal requirements, obtaining an FBI criminal record check is a critical component. Remember to review all requirements, double-check your submissions, and ensure that all details are accurate to avoid any delays.