If you’re applying for immigration to the United States or another country in 2025, chances are you’ll be asked to provide an FBI background check. This official report helps immigration authorities verify your identity and check for any criminal records that may impact your application.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get an FBI background check for immigration, step-by-step whether you prefer the online process or visiting an in-person location like PDX Fingerprinting.
Why Immigration Authorities Require an FBI Background Check
An FBI background check provides a comprehensive review of your criminal history (if any), using data from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. For immigration, it’s used to:
- Confirm your identity through fingerprints
- Check for arrests, convictions, or pending charges
- Support visa, green card, or citizenship applications
- Meet the legal requirements of agencies like USCIS or foreign immigration offices
Without this document, your immigration application may be delayed or even denied.
Step 1: Confirm the Requirements for Your Immigration Application
Before you begin, check your specific immigration case requirements. While most U.S. immigration processes request an FBI background check, each case can differ.
For example:
- USCIS Green Card or Naturalization – Typically requires a recent FBI Identity History Summary
- Work or Study Visa – Some cases need it, especially if you’ve lived in the U.S. for an extended time
- Other Countries (e.g., Canada, Spain) – May request an FBI check even if you’re applying from abroad
Pro tip: Requirements can vary by country and by year, so confirm details before starting.
Step 2: Choose Your Method Online vs. In-Person
You have two main ways to request your FBI background check:
A. Online Application (FBI’s Approved Channelers)
You can use an FBI-approved channeler to submit your application digitally. This method is usually faster (often 1–3 days). You’ll:
- Register online with a channeler.
- Fill out personal details.
- Submit fingerprint cards by mail or via a digital fingerprint scanner at a partner location.
- Receive your report electronically.
B. In-Person Application (Local Fingerprinting Services)
If you prefer face-to-face service, you can visit a fingerprinting provider like PDX Fingerprinting. We’ll capture your fingerprints electronically and submit them securely to the FBI.
This method is ideal if you:
- Want professional help with the process
- Need guaranteed fingerprint quality (to avoid rejection)
- Prefer personal assistance with forms
Step 3: Gather Required Information
To get started, you’ll need:
- Government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or state ID)
- Your completed fingerprint card (FD-258) we can provide and fill this for you
- Payment for the FBI processing fee or channeler fee
- A valid email address to receive your results
Step 4: Complete Fingerprinting
Your fingerprints are the core of the FBI background check process. At PDX Fingerprinting, we capture high-quality prints using Live Scan technology, reducing the chance of rejection due to smudges or poor image quality.
We submit them digitally for the fastest results possible, but we also offer ink fingerprinting if required by your immigration office.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Once your fingerprints are ready:
- If using a channeler: Upload or mail your fingerprint card, pay the fee, and wait for processing.
- If using PDX Fingerprinting: We submit your request directly to the FBI, eliminating extra steps.
Step 6: Receive Your FBI Background Check Report
Processing times can vary:
- Channelers: 1–3 business days (digital copy)
- Direct to FBI: 2–4 weeks (mail)
We can deliver your results as a PDF for digital use or in hard copy for official submission.
Step 7: Submit Your Report to Immigration Authorities
When you receive your report, send it to your immigration lawyer or directly to USCIS (or the relevant country’s immigration office). Make sure it’s within the validity period, usually six months from the date of issue.
How PDX Fingerprinting Makes the Process Easy
At PDX Fingerprinting, we help immigrants get their FBI background checks quickly, accurately, and without stress. Here’s why clients choose us:
- Professional Live Scan fingerprinting
- Assistance with forms and application process
- Fast, secure electronic submissions
- Experience with immigration-related requirements
Whether you’re applying for a U.S. green card, a work visa abroad, or dual citizenship, we ensure you get your FBI background check done right the first time.
Final Thoughts
Getting an FBI background check for immigration doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the process and choosing the right method, you can avoid delays and move forward confidently with your application.
If you’re in or near Portland, Oregon, book your FBI background check appointment with PDX Fingerprinting today and get your results fast.
