Many visa, residency and citizenship applications abroad require an FBI background check, often with an apostille. When the fingerprints or paperwork are rejected, you lose weeks you may not have. Here are the most common reasons immigration-related FBI submissions fail and how to avoid each one.
Applying for a visa or residency? PDX Fingerprinting handles FBI background checks for visa and immigration from fingerprints to apostille. Book an appointment online.
Note: if you are applying for a U.S. immigration benefit, such as a green card or citizenship, USCIS takes your fingerprints at its own Application Support Center. This guide is about FBI background checks requested for use in other countries, or by request from a consulate.
1. Poor fingerprint quality
This is the most common reason. Smudged, faint or partial prints cannot be classified, so the FBI rejects the card. Dry skin, worn ridges (common in some trades and older adults) and rushed rolling all contribute. A trained technician who checks each print before you leave avoids most of these rejections.
2. The wrong card or format
FBI mail-in requests need a standard FD-258 card. Cards printed on regular paper, the wrong size, or a different agency’s form may be rejected. Electronic submissions must go through the FBI or an FBI-approved channeler.
3. Missing or mismatched information
- Blank required fields, such as date of birth or place of birth
- A name that doesn’t match your passport, which matters when the report goes abroad
- Missing signatures on the card or application
- Illegible handwriting, so type or print clearly in black ink
4. Payment or application problems
Mail-in requests need the correct fee and a completed application. A missing payment or expired card information stalls the request.
5. Results that are too old
Many countries only accept an FBI report issued within the last 3 to 6 months. If you request it too early, it can expire before your appointment. Check the deadline with the embassy or immigration office, then plan your request.
6. Missing the apostille
Most countries in the Hague Convention require the FBI report to carry an apostille from the U.S. Department of State. A report without one is often refused. Read how to get an apostille for an FBI background check and which documents need an FBI apostille.
7. Translation requirements
Some countries also need a certified translation of the FBI report and the apostille. Ask the receiving office whether the translation itself must be certified or apostilled. We offer certified translations from $65.
Checklist to avoid rejection
- Confirm exactly what the receiving country needs: report, apostille, translation and maximum age
- Get printed by an experienced technician on a standard FD-258 card
- Make sure your name matches your passport
- Request electronically when possible for faster results
- Order the apostille right after your report arrives
Our FBI background check is $135, or $295 including the apostille. See pricing.
Related services
- FBI background check for visa and immigration
- FBI apostille service
- Step-by-step immigration guide
- What to do if your fingerprints are rejected
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?
You are notified and must be fingerprinted again. Follow the instructions in your rejection notice.
How long does an FBI check for immigration take?
Electronic requests often come back within days; mailed cards take longer. Add time for the apostille. See how long an FBI apostille takes.
Can I use my FBI report for more than one country?
Yes, as long as each country accepts its age. One apostille is accepted by all Hague Convention countries; countries outside the Convention need embassy legalization instead.
