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:
- Enhancing Security: Ensures that individuals with serious criminal backgrounds are identified before entering Colombia.
- Promoting Public Safety: Protects Colombian citizens and residents by screening out potential threats.
- Ensuring Legal Compliance: Verifies that applicants comply with Colombian laws and immigration policies.
- Facilitating Informed Decision-Making: Provides immigration authorities with critical information to make informed visa approval decisions.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
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Comienza con una evaluación gratuita de tu caso
¿Qué va a pasar una vez llenes este formulario?
Después de llenar y enviar el formulario, tu caso pasa por una revisión integral por parte de nuestro equipo de especialistas para evaluar su viabilidad. Recuerda que proporcionar información clara y concisa sobre tus objetivos acelera este proceso.
Posteriormente, se asignará un especialista a tu caso, quien se comunicará contigo en un plazo de un día para aclarar detalles sobre tu caso particular y darte los próximos pasos para ayudarte a alcanzar tus objetivos.
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