Even when you are living in Colombia, it is entirely possible to get your USA Police Clearance for specific purposes. American citizens who stay currently in Colombia may require this United States background check for various reasons such as immigration or residency. In this blog, we will explain to you about the USA background check, how to apply, and things to consider while applying.
What is a USA Police Clearance
A USA Police Clearance is a background check that discloses information about an individual’s American criminal history. This comprehensive check is carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Fingerprints are mandated to search precisely for relevant criminal records. FBI check is requested for various objectives including immigration, citizenship, legal formalities, etc.
How to Apply for a USA Police Clearance from Colombia
There are different modes to apply for a USA background check. Use a suitable method of submitting your application.
Mail
You can choose to complete your application physically and then mail it to the FBI along with your fingerprints to the address:
FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request
1000 Custer Hollow Road
Clarksburg, WV 26306
You will be required to complete the fee payment using a credit card, money order, or certified checks. It is suggested that you avoid paying via cash or personal check. Ensure to review the materials before submitting your application so that there is no delay or rejection. If more than one individual such as a family member wants to apply collectively, separate application forms will have to be submitted with complete details. You will receive one sealed response of which you can make additional copies if required for certain situations.
Directly Online
You can also directly apply online by visiting www.edo.cjis.gov. Complete your application online along with payment. Payment can be carried out via different modes such as Credit Card, PayPal, or even Amazon account. You can mail your fingerprint card to the address listed on the confirmation email received during the commencement of your online application process. After completing your payment, you will be sent an email. It is suggested that you keep a copy of the confirmation email. This email will help you to track the status of your application. You can receive the results through the option you choose for result delivery.
Using Services of Third-Party Agencies
You can use the online services of agencies such as Globeia to complete your application and send a copy of your fingerprints for review. After the approved quality check, you can submit your original fingerprints so that Globeia’s USA team can forward the applications with the fingerprint card to the FBI headquarters.
What to Consider While Applying for an FBI Background Check
When you apply for an FBI background check, you must take note of the following things.
1. Understanding the Reason for Your FBI Background Check
It is important to understand the reason for applying for an FBI background check. You may be required to mention your purpose of application when you apply.
2. Arranging Fingerprints
It is important to arrange your fingerprints for submission. You will be required to get your fingerprints professionally taken using FD-258/FD-1164 fingerprint cards. You can reach out to the local police department to carry out the fingerprinting procedure or apply via a trusted fingerprinting agency. Ensure that your fingerprints are legible without any smudges. You can understand the fingerprinting guidelines more comprehensively using our guide.
3. Understanding the Fee Structure
When you apply for a USA Police Clearance Certificate, it is important to understand the fee structure used by the mode of application that you will choose. If you choose to mail your application, you may be required to pay a fee of $18. Please note that you will not be able to pay for expedited services by applying via mail. You can request a waiver in case you cannot afford to pay the fee. A waiver request must have a claim or proof of indigence. When you apply using an FBI-approved channeler, you are recommended to go through the fee structure that the channeler provides to ensure transparency and a complete understanding before you apply. Certain service providers may charge extra for faster services or other services such as FBI apostille, etc.
4. Understanding the Processing Timeframes
Processing timelines can vary depending on various factors such as your citizenship status, mailing time, and backlogs from the FBI. If you are a US citizen or a green card holder, your application may get processed in a matter of one or two days. Whereas, if you are not a US citizen and do not have a green card holder, this process can take up to a few weeks.
5. Updating Changes and Requesting Additional Services
There may be a possibility that information changes may occur after application submission such as a change in address. In such cases, you would be required to fill out additional forms. If there is a change in address after application submission, you may be required to fax or mail an Address Change Request Form with complete details and signature. Moreover, you may also require additional services such as apostille, or authentication. If you apply using an FBI-approved channeler, you can contact the team to get more updates on carrying out such processes.
Conclusion
Obtaining a USA Police Clearance while living in Colombia is simple with a variety of application methods to select from such as mail, online portal, or via FBI-approved channeler. Each method involves certain steps and advantages. With thorough awareness of each step and things to consider while making your application, you can easily complete the whole procedure to requesting an FBI background check without any hassle. You can use Globeia’s efficient services and begin your application process now for a smooth submission journey.