How to Obtain an FBI Background Check for Your Colombian Visa Application

On July 22, 2022, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombia issued Resolution 5477, introducing several changes to the Colombian visa application process. 

One significant update is the requirement for a certificate of judicial, criminal, or police records from the applicant’s country of origin or residence. 

This new mandate is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of Colombian society by verifying the backgrounds of individuals seeking to enter the country. 

In this article we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on obtaining and submitting an FBI background check for U.S. citizens, explaining its importance and the steps involved in meeting this requirement for a successful Colombian visa application.

The Importance of the Certificate Requirement

Requiring a certificate of judicial, criminal, or police records serves several key purposes:

  1. Enhancing Security: Ensures that individuals with serious criminal backgrounds are identified before entering Colombia.
  2. Promoting Public Safety: Protects Colombian citizens and residents by screening out potential threats.
  3. Ensuring Legal Compliance: Verifies that applicants comply with Colombian laws and immigration policies.
  4. Facilitating Informed Decision-Making: Provides immigration authorities with critical information to make informed visa approval decisions.
fbi background check
fbi background check

What is the FBI Background Certificate?

For U.S. citizens, the criminal record certificate required for a Colombian visa is typically obtained from the FBI. 

This document certifies whether a person has a criminal, judicial, or disciplinary record. It includes specific data taken from fingerprints, detailing any arrests and related charges.

How to Obtain the FBI Background Check Certificate

The process of obtaining the FBI background check certificate involves several steps:

  1. Requesting the Certificate:
    • Online: Visit the FBI’s official website and follow the instructions to submit your application electronically.
    • By Mail: Complete the applicant information form and send it, along with your fingerprint card and payment, to the FBI CJIS Division in Clarksburg, WV.
    • Through an FBI-Approved Channeler: These intermediaries can expedite the process by handling the submission and retrieval of your background check on your behalf.
  2. Fingerprinting:
    • If you are in the U.S., you can get your fingerprints taken at participating U.S. post offices. If you are outside the U.S., you must use the form FD-258 for fingerprinting and send it along with your application.
  3. Payment: Pay the processing fee either online, by credit card, or through a money order or certified check made payable to the Treasury of the United States.
  4. Authentication and Translation:
    • Ensure that the certificate is apostilled and translated into Spanish by an official translator. The issue date of the document must be less than three months old for it to be valid for visa processes.

Characteristics of the FBI Criminal Record Certificate

To be accepted and valid for Colombian visa processes, the FBI criminal record certificate must have:

  • The issue date of the document must be less than three months old.
  • The full and legible name of the applicant.
  • The signature and official logo of the FBI.

Once obtained, the apostilled and translated FBI background check certificate should be submitted as part of your Colombian visa application package. 

Note that the Colombian government may request additional information at its discretion.

What if There is a Registered Record?

If the background check reveals a criminal record, it is still possible to apply for a Colombian visa. 

However, applicants should be aware that the Colombian government may deny or not admit applications from individuals with criminal records, even if those records are expired.

We can help you get your FBI criminal records!

To facilitate this process, here at NEXO LEGAL we offer you specialized service to help American citizens obtain their FBI background certificates for Colombian visa applications. 

By working with us, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process, so get in contact today! 

Get started with a free case assessment ​

What will happen after you fill out this form? ​

After submitting the form, your case undergoes a comprehensive review by our team of specialist to assess its viability. Providing clear and concise information about your objectives accelerates this process.

Subsequently, a specialist will be assigned to your case, reaching out to you within a day to clear up details about your case and outline the next steps to help you achieve your goals.

Get started with a free case assessment ​

What will happen after you fill out this form? ​

After submitting the form, your case undergoes a comprehensive review by our team of specialist to assess its viability. Providing clear and concise information about your objectives accelerates this process.

Subsequently, a specialist will be assigned to your case, reaching out to you within a day to clear up details about your case and outline the next steps to help you achieve your goals.

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Oficina 407

Medellín, Colombia

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