Understanding the Process for Getting a USA Background Check When Living in Spain

A USA background check is a formal document that provides details regarding an individual’s criminal history in the United States of America (USA). It includes details regarding arrests, convictions, pending charges, judicial orders, etc. This USA criminal background check is conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

This document is very relevant for purposes like applying for visas, work permits, or employment verification in a professional scope. It can also serve as proof of applicants’ background who are applying for residential permits or citizenship in Spain given they have a clean record when it comes to crimes in Spain. This usually encompasses a verification of a person's identity by fingerprints which is the most precise and dependable form of results.

 

The process of applying for a USA background check from Spain differs according to the method you choose. Here are the three major methods - applying by mail, by using the FBI's online portal, or through hiring third-party agencies.

1. Applying by Mail

If you prefer a conventional approach, you can apply by mailing your documents and your application directly to the FBI.

Prepare Your Documents: Start by downloading the USA background check form from their website. Fill out the form cautiously, ensuring that all details match your identification documents. Arrange all the relevant documents that must be required along with the application submission.

Get Fingerprinted: Go to visit a professional fingerprinting company in Spain or attach to a local police station to get the fingerprints on the FD-258/FD-1164 fingerprint card. Be sure that the prints are smudge-free clear and legible.

Pay the Fee: The application fee must be paid via a certified check, money order, or credit card. Avoid cash or personal checks as they will not be accepted by authorities.

Mail Your Application: Send your completed form, fingerprint card, and payment to the address - FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request.

1000 Custer Hollow Road

Clarksburg, WV 26306, USA.

2. Applying Online

For a faster and more convenient process, the FBI’s eDO portal allows individuals to apply for a USA background check online.

Visit the Portal: Visit the eDO portal at www.edo.cjis.gov and create an account.

Submit Personal Information: Complete the online form with your details, including your name, address, and reason for requesting the background check.

Payment: Pay the application fee using a credit card, PayPal, or any accepted payment method.

Submit Fingerprints: Once your application is submitted, mail your fingerprint card to the address specified in the email confirmation.

Track Your Status: Use the confirmation email to monitor the status of your application and receive results through your chosen delivery method.

3. Applying Via Third-Party Agencies

If you’re looking for additional convenience, you can use the online service of a trusted third-party agency like Globeia to handle the process for you.

Complete the Application: Complete the application by adding your details and uploading relevant documents.

Complete the Payment: Complete the payment by adding the billing details and selecting a payment method.

Submit a Copy of Fingerprint Card: Submit a copy of your fingerprint card for a quality review.

Send Original Fingerprint Card: Once the quality review is completed and approved, you can send your original fingerprint to Globeia’s USA team.

Receive Results: For US citizen or green-card holders, result will be processed in 1-2 days and for non-US citizens, result will be processed in 2 weeks.

 

When applying for a USA background check from Spain, these dos and don’ts can help you avoid delays or rejections.

Dos

Double-Check Documents: Ensure all forms are filled out correctly and that your fingerprint card is free of errors.

Follow Instructions: Adhere to the FBI’s or the agency’s guidelines for submitting fingerprints and application forms.

Plan Ahead: Be aware of processing times and apply well in advance to meet any deadlines for your purpose.

Don’ts

Submit Poor-Quality Fingerprints: Smudged or incomplete fingerprints are a common reason for application rejection.

Use Unapproved Payment Methods: Ensure you use the accepted payment modes like certified checks or credit cards.

Overlook Additional Services: If required, request services like an apostille or translation upfront to avoid delays later.

 

For official use in Spain, in the case your USA Police Clearance Certificate is required, obtaining an apostille from the U.S. Department of State will be necessary. This essentially endorses it as authentic and legal in other countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. You may want to consider applying for an FBI background check apostille through Globeia, which is very reliable and efficient.

If you were to bring the USA Police Clearance to authorities in non-English speaking countries like Spain, you might also need to have it certified and translated into Spanish. 

 

Getting a USA Background Check while being located in Spain is quite necessary for many legal and professional purposes. Whichever the case, if you are applying for immigration, work permit, or residency, this record will detail your criminal history inside the United States. A good understanding of application methods, documentation preparation, and avoidance of common pitfalls guarantees a smooth and hassle-free process.

If you are interested in applying online conveniently, you can use Globeia’s online service for a USA background check. Globeia offers trusted and efficient services to carry out the application process online without any hassle or paperwork. If you are interested in applying for an FBI criminal background check now, you can click here.