What is an FBI Identity History Summary and who needs it in Australia?
The FBI Identity History Summary is the US federal government's official fingerprint-based criminal history record. In Australia, it is commonly required for skilled migration and permanent residency applications, partner and spouse visas, employment in regulated industries, and professional licensing recognition- specifically for anyone who has previously lived, worked, or studied in the United States.
Do I need to travel to the US to get an FBI background check from Australia?
No. Ink fingerprints can be collected at your location in Australia by a trained Globeia associate on official FD-258 or FD-1164 cards. Completed cards are mailed to Globeia Inc. in the USA for processing and submission to the FBI. You do not need to visit a US embassy, consulate, or travel to the United States at any stage.
How long does the FBI background check process take from Australia?
Processing times are determined entirely by the FBI and vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. With Globeia, for U.S. citizens, results are usually processed in 1-3 business days, while non-U.S. citizens may take around 2-3 weeks. Fingerprint collection in Australia plus international courier and delivery usually adds 5-10 business days depending on location and shipping method, so the total end-to-end timeline is generally around 1-4 weeks. Start early if you have a visa or employment deadline.
Where can I get FBI fingerprinting done in Australia?
You can book a Globeia mobile fingerprinting appointment or visit selected locations across major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
I already have my FBI Background Check. Can I just get the apostille?
Yes. If you already hold your FBI Identity History Summary and only need the apostille coordinated, Globeia can manage the submission to the US Department of State on your behalf.
Which fingerprinting cards are accepted for an FBI background check from Australia?
The FBI requires rolled ink fingerprints on official FD-258 or FD-1164 cards. Digital or scanned fingerprints are not accepted for submissions from outside the United States. Each finger must be rolled fully from nail to nail in black ink, with all required fields completed accurately including full legal name, date of birth, and the signature of the associate taking the prints.
What happens if the FBI rejects my fingerprint card?
If the FBI determines the impressions are unclear or incomplete, the submission is returned and new fingerprints must be collected and resubmitted. This restarts the mailing and processing cycle entirely, which is why on-site quality review at the collection stage matters. At Globeia, every impression is checked before the appointment closes and any unclear print is retaken immediately.
I am a Green Card holder living in Australia, not a USA citizen. Do I still need an FBI background check?
Yes, if you have lived in the United States. The FBI Identity History Summary requirement is based on US residency history, not citizenship. Green Card holders and former US residents are required to submit an FBI Identity History Summary for applicable visa, immigration, and licensing applications. The process is the same as for US citizens.
Can the FBI background check be sent directly to my Australian employer or visa office?
Yes, but a signed third-party consent form must be completed before submission. Without this consent form in place, the FBI will send results directly to the applicant only. Confirm the delivery requirements with the requesting authority before your application is submitted.
Does Globeia offer mobile fingerprinting across all Australian cities?
Yes. Globeia's trained associates travel to your home, office, or preferred location across Australia including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Canberra. For corporate teams or group applications, on-site sessions can be arranged at your workplace. All appointments use official FD-258 or FD-1164 fingerprint cards with on-site quality review before cards are finalised.