Key Facts
- An FBI background check offers a nationwide review of criminal history, unlike state-level checks limited to one jurisdiction.
- Employers and immigration authorities rely on FBI checks to make informed decisions about applicants' eligibility and safety.
- The process involves fingerprinting, submission, and processing, with results typically available in 3–7 days for electronic submissions.
- Common delays in FBI background checks can arise from poor-quality fingerprints, database matches, or processing backlogs.
- Working with Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan ensures accurate fingerprinting and timely results, minimizing potential issues during the application process.
When applying for a new job, professional license, visa, or immigration status, you may be required to complete an FBI background check. Unlike state-level checks, which only cover records from a single state, the FBI background check provides a comprehensive, nationwide review of criminal history.
Because of its broad scope, the FBI background check is often considered the gold standard for verifying an individual’s record. Employers, government agencies, and immigration authorities rely on it to make informed decisions about applicants.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we help individuals complete FBI background checks quickly, securely, and correctly. This article explains what FBI background checks are, why they matter, and how to complete one without unnecessary delays.
What is an FBI Background Check?
Definition
An FBI background check is a fingerprint-based search of the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS). This system contains millions of fingerprint records collected from law enforcement, military, immigration, and other government agencies.
Scope
Unlike state-level checks, which only return results from one jurisdiction, the FBI check reveals whether an applicant has records anywhere in the United States.
Report Contents
An FBI background check generates an Identity History Summary (commonly known as a “rap sheet”), which includes:
- Arrests and charges (even if dismissed)
- Convictions
- Federal criminal history records
- Immigration-related history (if applicable)
Why Are FBI Background Checks Required?
Employment
Many federal agencies, contractors, and private employers require FBI background checks for sensitive positions. These include jobs in defense, law enforcement, banking, and security.
Immigration
USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) and other immigration authorities require FBI background checks for:
- Green card applications
- Naturalization (citizenship) applications
- Certain visa categories
- International adoptions
Licensing
Professions with a high degree of responsibility — such as healthcare, childcare, and security — often require both state and FBI background checks to ensure complete vetting.
FBI Background Check vs. State Background Check
Geographic Coverage
- State Check (DOJ or BCI): Criminal history limited to one state.
- FBI Check: Criminal history nationwide.
Use Cases
- State Check: Employment or licensing within California only.
- FBI Check: Immigration, federal employment, or multi-state licensing.
Processing Authority
- State Check: Handled by the California DOJ or other state bureaus.
- FBI Check: Processed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
How to Complete an FBI Background Check
Step 1: Fingerprinting
The process begins with fingerprint capture, usually through Live Scan or FD-258 fingerprint cards. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide both options.
Step 2: Submission
Fingerprints can be submitted:
- Electronically through Live Scan (fastest option if routed through an FBI-approved channeler)
- By mail using FD-258 fingerprint cards (slower, often several weeks)
Step 3: Processing
The FBI searches its national database and compiles an Identity History Summary.
Step 4: Results
Results may be sent:
- Directly to the requesting agency (employer, immigration office, licensing board)
- To the applicant if requested for personal use or apostille services
How Long Do FBI Background Checks Take?
Electronic Submission
When fingerprints are submitted electronically through an FBI-approved channeler, results are often available within 3–7 business days.
Mail Submission
When using ink fingerprint cards (FD-258), processing can take 6–8 weeks.
Immigration Requests
For immigration purposes, results may take longer, particularly if they must be certified, apostilled, or sent to an international authority.
Costs of FBI Background Checks
The cost of an FBI background check generally includes:
- FBI Fee: Around $17–$25
- Rolling Fee (Fingerprinting Service): $20–$50 depending on the provider
- Additional Costs (if required): Apostille or certified copies for international use
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide transparent pricing and ensure that clients only pay what’s necessary.
Common Reasons FBI Background Checks Are Delayed
- Poor-quality fingerprints requiring resubmission
- Database matches that require manual review
- Processing backlogs at the FBI or channeler offices
- Incorrect forms or submissions
Our team at Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan helps prevent these issues by ensuring accurate fingerprinting and correct paperwork submission.
Why FBI Background Checks Matter for Immigration
For immigration, the FBI check serves as proof that an applicant does not pose a criminal risk to the United States. Immigration officers rely on FBI records to:
- Evaluate eligibility for visas and green cards
- Approve naturalization applications
- Authorize international adoptions
- Verify applicants for work or study abroad programs
Without an FBI check, immigration applications may be delayed or denied.
Why FBI Background Checks Matter for Employment
Employers use FBI background checks to:
- Protect workplace safety
- Ensure compliance with federal regulations
- Reduce liability risks
- Maintain trust in sensitive industries such as healthcare, finance, and education
For positions of trust, employers often require both DOJ and FBI background checks to ensure full coverage.
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
Completing an FBI background check correctly is essential. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide:
- Certified Live Scan fingerprinting for FBI submissions
- FD-258 fingerprint card services for mail-in requests
- Guidance on processing timelines for employment, licensing, and immigration
- Notary and apostille services for international use of FBI reports
- Mobile services for clients needing fingerprinting at their location
With our expertise, applicants can avoid common errors and receive their FBI background check results quickly and securely.
Visit Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to book your appointment today.
FAQs: FBI Background Check Services
What does an FBI background check show?
It shows your nationwide criminal history, including arrests, convictions, and federal records.
How long does it take to get FBI background check results?
Electronic submissions take usually a matter of hours, while mail-in requests may take 6–8 weeks.
Can I get a copy of my FBI background check for myself?
Yes. You can request a personal copy through the FBI’s Identity History Summary Request process.
Is an FBI check required for immigration?
Yes. Immigration applications, green cards, and naturalization processes all require FBI background checks.
Where can I get FBI fingerprinting in California?
You can schedule fingerprinting with Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, an authorized provider.
Conclusion
FBI background checks are critical for both employment and immigration. They provide a comprehensive review of an individual’s criminal history, ensuring safety, compliance, and trust for employers, agencies, and immigration authorities.
By working with Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, applicants can complete fingerprinting quickly and correctly, avoid delays, and get the results they need.
Visit https://anshinotary.com/ today to start your FBI background check process with confidence.
