Applying for an FBI Background Check from Jakarta? Start Here

Every FBI background check follows the same destination, but not every application follows the same journey. For applicants in Jakarta, the process involves local fingerprint collection, international document handling, and coordination with the FBI's systems in the United States. Understanding these stages early can help reduce delays and avoid having to repeat the application.

Read on to explore your local fingerprinting options, payment methods, document requirements, and expected processing times when applying for an FBI background check from Jakarta.

An FBI Background Check, officially called an FBI Identity History Summary, is a fingerprint-based search of the FBI's criminal history databases. It shows whether the FBI has any arrest or criminal history information associated with your fingerprints.

Unlike name-based background checks, the FBI relies on fingerprints because they provide a much more reliable way to confirm an individual's identity. Similar names, spelling variations, or changes after marriage do not affect fingerprint-based searches.

Applicants in Jakarta often begin the process after being instructed by:

• A foreign embassy or consulate processing a visa application.
• An overseas employer or university.
• A professional licensing authority outside Indonesia.
• An immigration lawyer or relocation consultant.
• An international adoption agency.

One of the biggest misconceptions among applicants in Jakarta is that an Indonesian Criminal Record Check (Surat Keterangan Catatan Kepolisian or SKCK) can be used in place of an FBI Background Check.

These documents serve different purposes.

For example, if you previously lived, worked, or studied in the United States, another country's immigration authority may ask you to submit an FBI Identity History Summary. This is because only the FBI maintains federal criminal history records for the United States.

Submitting an SKCK instead of the requested FBI report could result in your application being considered incomplete.

Many applicants focus only on getting the FBI report without checking how the receiving organization expects to receive it. This can result in unnecessary delays or repeat applications.

Before scheduling fingerprinting, confirm the following:

Is a digital PDF acceptable?

The FBI can issue an Identity History Summary in PDF form through its electronic application system. Many immigration authorities and employers accept the PDF version, while others request a printed report.

Do you need a physical paper copy?

Some organizations require an original printed report for their records, particularly when supporting visa, licensing, or legal applications.

Will the document need an FBI apostille?

If the report will be used in another country, the receiving authority may require an FBI apostille after the FBI issues the document. This is a separate process and should be confirmed before you apply.

Are there document validity requirements?

Many immigration authorities require background checks that were issued within a specific timeframe, such as the previous three, six, or twelve months. Even if your FBI report accurately reflects your criminal history, it may no longer meet the receiving organization's validity requirements if it is too old.

Confirming these details before applying helps ensure you order the correct version the first time.

Also Check FBI Background Check FAQ 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Fingerprint collection is the foundational step of your FBI Background Check application. No matter how you choose to submit your request, the FBI needs fingerprints that are clear enough for comparison against its criminal history records.

Poor-quality fingerprints remain one of the most common reasons applications experience delays.

Where can you get fingerprinted in Jakarta?

Applicants generally have several options depending on their circumstances:

What Should You Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment?

Requirements may vary depending on whether you're visiting a police facility or a private fingerprinting provider in Jakarta, but it's generally a good idea to bring:

• A valid passport (preferred for FBI Background Check applications)
• A secondary government-issued photo ID, if requested by the provider (such as an Indonesian National Identity Card (KTP) or a driver's licence)
• A printed FBI fingerprint card (FD-258/FD-1164), if your provider asks you to bring one
• Any instructions from the organization assisting with your application, if applicable

Many fingerprint providers in Jakarta require the original identity document for verification and may not accept photocopies, scanned copies, or expired identification.

If your passport is being renewed or is unavailable, contact the fingerprint provider before your appointment to confirm whether an alternative form of identification will be accepted.

FBI’s Guidance for Capturing High-Quality Fingerprints

The quality of your fingerprints can directly affect whether the FBI is able to process your application. Before your appointment:

• Wash your hands and remove any dirt or residue from your fingertips.
• If your hands are very dry or flaky, apply a small amount of moisturizer beforehand and wipe off any excess. If your hands are sweaty, dry them thoroughly before printing.
• Avoid cuts, burns, or injuries to your fingertips whenever possible.
• Relax your hands and allow the provider to roll each finger naturally. Using too much pressure or trying to assist can cause smudging.
• Tell the provider if you have scars, worn fingerprints, or a medical condition that affects your fingerprints.

Applicants who perform manual labour or frequently handle chemicals may have worn fingerprint ridges. In these cases, an experienced provider can often improve print quality by adjusting the capture technique or retaking individual impressions. 

Taking a few extra minutes to obtain clear, legible fingerprints is often easier than repeating the entire application because the FBI could not process the original prints.

You can check the FBI's guidance for recording legible fingerprints here.

Applicants in Jakarta generally have two options: submitting the application themselves or using a document coordination service.

Option 1: Apply Directly to the FBI

You can submit your request directly to the FBI by creating an application through the FBI's Electronic Departmental Order (eDO) portal or by completing a paper application.

• eDO application: Complete your application online, pay the FBI processing fee, and mail your completed fingerprint card to the FBI. Once your fingerprints are received and processed, you can typically access your Identity History Summary through the portal.
• Mail-in application: Complete the paper application, include your fingerprint card and payment, and mail everything to the FBI. Your report will be issued after the FBI processes your request.

Remember, if you choose either option, you are responsible for preparing the application, arranging international courier delivery, and ensuring all required documents are complete. Here are a few resources to make things easier for you:

Option 2: Use a Submission Coordination Service

Some applicants prefer to work with a document coordination service that assists throughout the application process.

• Depending on the provider, assistance may include:
• Reviewing your fingerprint card before submission
• Coordinating the application with the FBI
• Arranging international courier delivery
• Tracking the application's progress

This option can be particularly helpful for applicants applying under tight deadlines or those who are unfamiliar with the international documentation process.

Which Option Is Right for You?

One of the questions applicants in Jakarta ask most frequently is how to pay the FBI application fee.

The FBI currently charges USD $18 for an Identity History Summary request (subject to change). This fee covers the federal criminal history search only. Fingerprinting, courier charges, and any additional services are separate costs.

Applicants in Indonesia can pay online using any of the following payment methods:

Note: The FBI does not accept personal checks, business checks, or cash for Identity History Summary requests.

A few additional points to keep in mind:

• The $18 fee is charged per request, not per copy. Once you receive your electronic report, you may print as many copies as needed.
• If you require additional sealed paper copies mailed by the FBI, a separate request and an additional $18 fee are required for each sealed copy.
• Someone else, such as a family member or document coordination service, may pay the FBI fee on your behalf during the application process.

Unable to Pay the Fee? You must contact the FBI to request instructions for applying for a fee waiver before submitting your application.

If your fingerprints will be mailed to the FBI, international shipping becomes an important part of the application.

Unlike domestic U.S. applicants, individuals applying from Jakarta should allow time for overseas courier delivery before the FBI can begin processing their request.

• Protect the fingerprint card from bending or moisture.
• Ensure all required application documents are included.
• Verify that signatures are complete before sealing the package.
• Keep copies of any forms for your records.

Using an international courier with shipment tracking is preferable to untracked postal services because it allows you to monitor delivery and confirm when your fingerprint card reaches its destination.

Rather than coordinating multiple providers yourself, Globeia manages your FBI Background Check application through a single, streamlined workflow:

1. Online Application - Our easy online application system allows you to quickly fill in your details and start the process.
2. Face ID Verification - Your identity is securely verified before your application proceeds.
3. Mobile Fingerprint Collection - We arrange fingerprint collection through our network of trained associates in Jakarta.
4. Quality Review - We review your fingerprints and application documents for completeness before submission, helping reduce avoidable errors or delays.
5. Submission Coordination - Your application is coordinated through Globeia Inc. in the United States for submission to the FBI.
6. Application Monitoring - We track your application and keep you informed throughout the process in real time with our SmartPortal.
7. Report Delivery - Once issued, your FBI Identity History Summary is delivered in a secure PDF online.
8. Translation & Apostille Assistance - If your receiving authority requires a certified translation or an apostille, we can coordinate these services after your FBI report is issued. We can courier the completed submission-ready package to your door in Jakarta.

With over 10 years of experience supporting international documentation, Globeia has assisted more than 30,000 applicants across 100+ countries. By managing the entire process through one coordinated team, we provide a single point of contact from application to final document delivery.

But I Already Have My Fingerprints

Then you don't need to start over. As long as they were captured on an FD-258 or FD-1164 card, are clear and legible, and meet the FBI's quality requirements, they can be used.

Our team can review your fingerprint card before submission to identify any obvious issues that could lead to delays. If your fingerprints meet the required standards, we'll coordinate the remaining steps.

If you believe your FBI Identity History Summary contains incomplete or inaccurate information, you can request a correction. The FBI generally cannot change records submitted by another agency, but it can help identify the agency responsible for the record so you can request an update or correction.

Once the contributing agency updates its records, the revised information can be sent to the FBI to update your Identity History Summary. If you're applying for immigration, employment, or professional licensing, it's best to resolve any discrepancies before submitting your FBI Background Check.

If you submitted your request through the FBI's Electronic Departmental Order (eDO) portal, you can initiate the correction process through the "Challenge Your Identity History Summary" option using your FBI Universal Control Number (FBI Number) or State Identification Number (SID), if applicable.

By the time your application leaves Jakarta, the most important work is already behind you. You've confirmed the receiving authority's requirements, ensured your fingerprints meet the FBI's standards, and chosen the right submission method for your needs.

Whether you manage the process yourself or use a document coordination service, careful preparation at the beginning can help avoid unnecessary delays later. With your FBI Identity History Summary in hand, you'll be ready to move forward with your visa, immigration, employment, or other international application.

Start Your FBI Background Check Process with Globeia