Getting a USA background check while living in France is important for reasons relating to personal, professional as well as legal matters. It can be necessary for immigrants, employees, or even legal processes for American citizens living in France. This guide explains the essentials of what comprises a USA Background Check, application procedures, preparation requirements, and common pitfalls.

About USA Background Check

The USA background check reveals extensive information about a person regarding the criminal history in the United States of America (USA). This check is conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), using a fingerprint-based search, to verify accurate details of any past criminal records. This document is an essential one for immigration, employment requiring a security clearance, and international legal matters.

An FBI background check also keeps track of past arrests as well as any outstanding warrants. Criminal charges of any kind, whether they are dismissed, dropped, or even result in conviction, will be explored. The report further includes information on sentences served, probation instituted, and other final dispositions of cases at the time of judgment. Full judicial records such as court orders, judgments, or protective orders are highlighted as any formal legal orders have been issued against an individual. This exhaustive background check ensures accuracy and reliability for various needs for accessing official services.

Ways to Apply for USA Background Check from France

To apply for a USA Background Check from France, there are three main means: by mail, by online application, or else by using the services of a third-party platform.

1. Applying by Mail

You can opt 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

The fee payment has to be done via credit card, money order, or certified check. It is advised to avoid cash payments and personal checks. Go through the terms before submission of the application to avoid any kind of delay or rejection. If more than one applicant wants to apply such as another family member, separate USA background check application forms will have to be filled out with complete details. Receiving one sealed response can be duplicated later if some extra copies are needed.

2. Online Application (eDO Portal)

Go to www.edo.cjis.gov and file your application for an FBI background check online. You will be required to enter personal details, as well as make the payment from a suitable method such as credit card, Paypal, etc. You will be sent an email confirmation with important submission details once your application is completed and payment successfully processed.

This email will send the instructions concerning mailing your fingerprint card typically to the address. Make sure your fingerprint card has been completed and sent as soon as possible to avoid processing delays. Keep a copy of the confirmation email for your future reference as it will serve as proof of submission and as a means to check status online. Results will be obtained according to how you chose your delivery method during the entire application process.

3. Third-Party Services

You may use online services offered by Globeia or other third-party agencies to finish your USA background check application and send a copy of your fingerprints to them for assessment. Once the quality check of your fingerprints has been completed, you may forward your original fingerprint card for submission along with your application to Globeia's USA office. Globeia will immediately proceed to the processing of your FBI background check.

Things to Prepare While Applying for USA Background Check from France

Here is a list of things to prepare if you are about to apply for a USA police clearance certificate.

State the Purpose of the FBI Background Check

Determine your purpose in applying for an FBI criminal record check. Most applications would require you to indicate the specific purpose for requesting a background check. Reasons could vary such as for immigration, employment, or legal proceedings. Clarity about the reason smoothens the application process.

Arrange Fingerprints

It is very important to ensure that you submit fingerprints properly for an FBI background check. The fingerprinting must be taken professionally on an FD-258 or FD-1164 fingerprint card. Fingerprinting services are normally offered at local police stations or licensed fingerprinting agencies. Make sure your fingerprints are absolutely clear, rolled correctly, and not smudged, since poor-quality prints account for many applications being rejected. Refer to credential fingerprinting guidelines for detailed instructions.

Understand Processing Timelines

The processing days can vary depending on citizenship status, mail delays, or workloads at the FBI. Applications may be processed for U.S. citizens and green card holders in one or two business days, while for non-citizen or non-green card holders, it may take a few more weeks due to the additional verification procedures.

Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for a USA Background Check from France

Avoid these mistakes for a smooth application process for this check in France.

Submitting Incorrectly Filled Form

Submission of an incomplete application form could mean a considerable delay in processing or rejection. Remember to double-check the entire form at all stages before sending it in. Any required information, whether it is personal data, qualifications, or supporting documents, should not be missing to avoid sending back the application for revision.

Using Incorrect Payment Method

Using the wrong methods will cause complications in the application processing or even result in outright rejection of the application. It is important to avoid making payments via personal checks and cash when applying by mail.

Neglecting Additional Services

Avoiding important services such as apostille and translation of your USA background check may at times result in unnecessary delays or complications in the submission of your background check to overseas authorities. If you have to present your document internationally, ensure that your document is apostilled, or a certified translation if the document is in a language that is other than what the foreign authority requires.

Conclusion

Knowing how to get a USA Background Check from France isn't much of a struggle - preparation is key. Choose the application method that's right for you and make sure all the important steps are followed properly. Then ensure compliance with the FBI's specifications so that your submission is successful. You can also consider using a trusted third-party service provider like Globeia. To apply for a USA background check from France using Globeia’s service, click here.

Written by :

We are a background screening and document verification agency in Toronto. While we cover the Greater Toronto Area for in-person appointments, the bulk of our clientele uses our online services from different countries of the world. Globeia makes it simple and cost-effective for companies and individuals to navigate governmental red tape without breaking the bank.

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