An FBI background check is typically required in Germany for purposes like immigration, employment, or legal formalities. It may be difficult to navigate through the application procedure in Germany. Through this blog, we will learn about different ways to apply for this check, the dos and don’ts to apply, and apostilling the FBI background check.

What is an FBI Criminal Background Check?

An FBI background check is an official document that aims to share details of an individual’s criminal history in the United States of America (USA). This check analyzes fingerprints to find accurate information on arrest records, charges, convictions, sentences, etc. The USA Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).

Ways to Apply for an FBI Background Check

There are different ways to apply for this background check in Germany such as mail, eDO portal, or via a third-party service provider.

1. Applying by Mail

One can choose to mail the USA background check application to the FBI. This conventional method of applying involves the following steps.

Complete the Application Form

Begin the procedure by downloading the application form from the official FBI website and filling it out by adding important details such as your name, birthdate, address, etc. Avoid making errors by double-checking the details added.

Submit a Fingerprint Card

FBI background check is based on an individual’s fingerprints. Therefore, use an FD-258 fingerprint card to submit your fingerprints for this check. Have your fingerprints taken at a local police department in Germany or a fingerprinting agency.

Make Payment

The fee must be paid through an acceptable mode such as a credit card, money order, or a certified check. Please refrain from paying through cash or personal check as it is not accepted. You will also be required to submit your proof of payment along with the application.

Send the Application

After completing the application, taking fingerprints using the fingerprint card, and making the payment, arrange all the relevant documents and mail these to the following address.

FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request

1000 Custer Hollow Road

Clarksburg, WV 26306

2. Online Application (eDO Portal)

Another way to apply for an FBI background check is through the electronic department (eDO) portal.

Visit the Portal

Begin by visiting the eDO portal website and creating an account. Register by adding contact details and login credentials.

Adding Information

Add your information accurately about details such as your name, birthdate, etc.

Pay the Fee

After completing the application, pay the application fee by approved methods such as a credit card or PayPal. You will receive a confirmation email right away from the system after your payment has been successfully processed.

Submit Your Fingerprints

After taking your fingerprints properly, submit your fingerprints via mail to the designated address.

Receive Results

You will receive the results via the method that you selected while filling out your application.

3. Third-Party Services

You can also choose to apply by using the services of a reliable third-party platform such as Globeia. Here are the steps involved in applying using Globeia’s online platform for an FBI background check in Poland.

Complete the Application

Complete your application by adding details, uploading important documents, etc. Make sure entries made while filling in your application are accurate.

Make Payment

Complete paying the fees for the check by adding your billing details and choosing a suitable payment method.

Upload a Copy of the Fingerprint Card

Upload a copy of your fingerprint card with your fingerprints to Globeia’s platform for a quality review.

Send Your Fingerprint Card to Globeia

Once the quality is approved, you can mail your original fingerprint card to Globeia’s USA office.

Receive Result

Get your results in just 24-48 hours if you are a US citizen or a green card holder by using Globeia’s services. For non-US citizens, results will be processed in two weeks.

Dos and Don’ts to Remember

Follow these tips and avoid doing certain practices for a smooth USA background check application process.

Dos:

Use Professional Fingerprinting Services: Ensure that you get your fingerprints taken properly. The standards must adhere to the FBI’s guidelines. Read our detailed guide to learn more.

Understand Processing Timelines: Please note that the processing timeline could be extended in certain circumstances. If you require your result within a set timeline, you are suggested to apply early.

Request Additional Services: Read about the additional services you may require to apply for along with your USA criminal record check such as apostilling your document or translating your document into the German language for use and apply accordingly.

Don’ts:

Don’t Submit Poor-Quality Fingerprints: You are advised to avoid submitting fingerprints that do not adhere to the quality standards set by the FBI.

Avoid Submitting Application with Incorrect Details or Documents: You are suggested to review your application and the documents attached before submission.

Avoid Delaying Application Submission: If you have a deadline to meet, you must consider avoiding a delay in submitting your FBI background check application.

Apostilling FBI Background Check

It is highly important to have your public document such as an FBI background check apostilled if you are planning to use it in Germany. Since Germany and the USA are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, having your USA police clearance certificate apostilled would mean that your document is legitimate for usage. Please note that apostille eliminates the requirement to have your document authenticated and legalized by the key authorities involved in Germany.

Conclusion

Applying for the FBI Background Check from Germany becomes simple when you know the right steps. Regardless you apply for it by mail, through the eDO platform, or a third party, every step of the process - from filling out the application form to submitting fingerprints - should be done accurately. If you are interested in applying online using Globeia’s online and efficient service for a USA background check, click here. If you are interested in getting your document apostilled, you can also choose to use Globeia’s online FBI apostille service.

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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