Immigrating to a new country is an exciting step toward building a fresh chapter in life. Whether you’re moving to the United States, Canada, Spain, or another country, one of the most common requirements in 2025 is an FBI background check. This official document verifies your criminal history or lack thereof and plays a crucial role in determining your eligibility for visas, residency, or citizenship.
If you’re in the immigration process, understanding why an FBI background check matters, how it’s used, and the easiest way to get it done will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
What is an FBI Background Check?
An FBI background check, officially called an Identity History Summary, is a report compiled by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It includes:
- Personal identifying information (name, date of birth, aliases)
- Fingerprint records
- Arrest records, if any
- Disposition of cases (outcomes of arrests, such as convictions or dismissals)
The report is generated by comparing your fingerprints against the FBI’s criminal database. This ensures a reliable and accurate verification of your history, which immigration authorities worldwide consider highly credible.
Why Immigration Authorities Require an FBI Background Check in 2025
Immigration agencies want to ensure that applicants do not pose security risks and have a trustworthy background. Here’s why the FBI background check is still essential in 2025:
1. Security Screening
Countries are becoming more strict with security due to global safety concerns. The FBI check is one of the most reliable tools for confirming that you do not have a serious criminal record.
2. Verification of Identity
With rising identity fraud cases, fingerprint-based reports ensure the information belongs to you and not someone else.
3. Compliance with USCIS and Foreign Immigration Requirements
For U.S. immigration, agencies like USCIS often require FBI checks for visa, green card, or citizenship applications. Foreign countries like Canada and Spain also accept or require them as part of residency or work visa processes.
4. Supporting Visa Applications
Even if not explicitly required, having an FBI background check can make your application stronger and prevent delays if additional screening is needed.
Situations Where You’ll Need an FBI Background Check for Immigration
- Applying for a U.S. Green Card or citizenship
- Requesting long-term residency in countries like Canada, Spain, or Australia
- Sponsorship-based immigration (marriage, employment, or family reunification)
- Student visa applications for certain countries
- Work permits for sensitive professions such as education, healthcare, or government jobs
How to Get an FBI Background Check for Immigration
Getting an FBI background check in 2025 is easier than ever, but you must follow the correct process to avoid delays.
Step 1: Choose an Approved Fingerprinting Service
You can submit your fingerprints electronically or via traditional ink cards. PDX Fingerprinting offers both walk-in and mobile fingerprinting services, ensuring convenience whether you want to come to our office or have us come to you.
Step 2: Provide Required Identification
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or state ID).
Step 3: Submit Fingerprints
We’ll capture your fingerprints digitally or on the official FD-258 fingerprint card, depending on your application requirements.
Step 4: Send to the FBI or Approved Channeler
We send your prints directly to the FBI or process them through an authorized FBI channeler for faster turnaround.
Step 5: Receive Your Report
Processing can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the method you choose.
How Long Does an FBI Background Check Take in 2025?
- Electronic submission: 24–72 hours via an FBI-approved channeler
- Ink card submission: 2–6 weeks directly through the FBI
If you’re on a tight immigration deadline, we recommend using our same-day fingerprinting service to speed up your results.
Tips to Avoid Delays in Your Immigration Process
- Apply early – Some countries require a background check issued within the last 3–6 months.
- Double-check your information – Typos or incorrect personal details can cause rejections.
- Use professional fingerprinting services – Smudged or incomplete fingerprints will be rejected.
Why Choose PDX Fingerprinting for Your FBI Background Check
At PDX Fingerprinting, we’ve helped thousands of immigrants successfully complete their FBI background checks without the headaches of navigating complex procedures. Here’s why our clients trust us:
- FBI-approved channeler submissions for faster results
- Mobile and walk-in fingerprinting options for your convenience
- Experienced technicians ensuring high-quality, error-free fingerprints
- Competitive pricing with transparent service options
We handle the technical details so you can focus on your immigration journey.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, an FBI background check remains one of the most important documents for immigration. Whether you’re applying for U.S. citizenship, moving to Canada, or settling in Spain, the process can be straightforward when you work with a professional service.Start your immigration process with confidence book your FBI background check with PDX Fingerprinting today.
