How to Get an FBI Background Check in Sydney

Obtaining an FBI background check in Sydney can seem daunting, especially considering that Australian police checks are not accepted as part of U.S. immigration, visa, employment or licensing requirements. The FBI requires a fingerprint-based Identity History Summary, and for residents in Sydney, wading through U.S. forms, fingerprint cards, mailing specifications and overseas submission specifications typically can present challenges and lead to delays, mistakes or rejection.

In this blog, we will help guide you with exactly how Sydney residents may obtain an FBI background check, including the documents to include with the submission, submission methods, processing times, and the anticipated length of time for a response from Australia. Additionally, we will help explain how Globeia makes the entire process straightforward and painless as a mobile fingerprinting and end-to-end submission service, preventing waste of time, money, and energy.

An FBI background check, officially called the Identity History Summary (IHS), is a fingerprint-based record issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It shows whether an individual has any criminal history recorded in U.S. national databases, including arrests, charges, convictions, and the disposition of each case. Because the report is generated using fingerprints, it is considered the most reliable form of U.S. background verification.

For Sydney residents, the FBI check serves as an official confirmation of your criminal history status for U.S.-related applications. The certificate typically includes your identifying information, any criminal entries (or a “No Record” result), and the FBI seal. Since it is used for legal, immigration, and security-related purposes, accuracy and proper submission are essential, incorrect fingerprints or forms can lead to delays or rejection.

You may need an FBI check if you are:

• Applying for U.S. immigration (green card, adjustment of status, family sponsorship).
• Seeking a U.S. employment visa, including work placements, internships, or contractor roles.
• Renewing U.S. residency, dual-citizenship applications, or long-term stay permissions.
• Working in education, healthcare, childcare, or security roles that require federal-level clearance.
• Applying for U.S. federal licensing (financial sector, aviation, legal, security, etc.).
• Teaching English abroad where U.S. background checks are mandatory.
• Expats who previously lived in the U.S. and must prove their criminal history for global immigration processes.
• Australians sponsoring a partner for U.S. immigration where FBI checks are required for both applicants and petitioners.

Option 1: Apply Directly Through the FBI (Self-Submission)

Sydney residents can apply directly to the FBI by submitting their fingerprints and application form themselves. This process requires you to download the FD-258 card, get ink fingerprints taken locally, and mail the physical card to the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division in the U.S.

How It Works (Step-by-Step)

1. Download and complete the FBI Identity History Summary Request form.
2. Get your fingerprints taken at a local police station or private provider.
3. Mail the fingerprint card + payment + application form to the FBI CJIS Division (USA).
4. Wait for processing (usually several weeks).
5. Receive your results electronically or by mail.

Pros

• Cheapest option.
• Works for people comfortable with doing everything manually.

Cons

• Long processing times (international mailing delays + FBI queue).
• High risk of rejection if fingerprints are unclear.
• No assistance with forms or requirements.
• You must handle all mailing, tracking, and potential resubmissions.

Option 2: Submit Through an FBI-Approved Channeler

FBI channelers are private companies authorised to streamline Identity History Summary submissions. They collect digital fingerprints and submit the request directly to the FBI for faster processing, usually within days.

How It Works

• You submit fingerprints to the channeler (digitally or via mailed cards, depending on provider).
• The channeler sends your request to the FBI on your behalf.
• You receive digital results typically within 1-3 business days.

Limitations

• Most channelers do not operate in Australia, meaning you still need to mail ink fingerprints internationally.
• Channelers cannot provide apostille or U.S. Department of State legalisation, a common requirement for immigration and global visa applications.
• They do not correct errors, assist with paperwork, or provide personalised support.

Option 3: Apply Through an Authorized Accredited Company (e.g., Globeia)

Companies like Globeia simplify the entire process for Sydney residents by handling fingerprinting, form preparation, and submission through their FBI-accredited U.S. office. Globeia offers mobile fingerprinting, meaning technicians come to your home or office to take compliant FD-258 fingerprints.

How It Works

• Book a mobile appointment anywhere in Sydney.
• A trained technician takes your fingerprints and verifies your documents.
• Your forms are auto-filled using SmartForm technology to avoid mistakes.
• Globeia submits your application digitally to the FBI and provides tracking until results arrive.

Pros

• Fastest end-to-end experience for Sydney residents.
• High acceptance rate due to professionally captured fingerprints.
• No mailing, no tracking, no resubmission stress, everything handled for you.
• Support available if you need apostille or additional document services.
• Ideal for professionals, students, expats, and time-sensitive applications.

Cons

• Service fee is higher than DIY, but the convenience and accuracy offset this for most clients.

Getting your FBI check doesn’t have to be stressful. Globeia makes the entire process simple, fast, and secure, right from your home or office in Sydney. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Book Your Mobile Appointment

Choose a convenient time and location - home, office, or coworking space. Globeia’s trained fingerprinting technicians come to you, eliminating the need for travel or long waits.

Step 2: Complete the Globeia SmartForm

Before your appointment, you’ll receive access to the Globeia SmartForm, a secure online portal. It collects all your information and automatically pre-fills your FBI forms to prevent errors and delays.

Step 3: Fingerprinting at Your Location

A certified Globeia technician takes your FD-258 fingerprints using professional equipment. Digital and ink fingerprints are captured accurately to meet FBI standards, minimizing the risk of rejection.

Step 4: Submission to the FBI

Globeia submits your application directly through their FBI-accredited channels. You can track your submission online, knowing exactly where your application is at every stage.

Step 5: Receive Your Official FBI Results

FBI Identity History Summary (IHS) results are delivered digitally within 1-3 business days. Globeia ensures your results are accurate, secure, and ready for use in immigration, employment, or visa applications.

• Incomplete or incorrect fingerprints: Smudged or misaligned FD-258/FD-1164 prints can cause rejection.
• Mismatched personal information: Spelling errors, wrong dates, or missing middle names may trigger delays.
• Non-approved submission channels: Direct submissions from Australia without an FBI-approved intermediary are often rejected.
• Invalid or expired ID documents: Outdated passports or unclear IDs can prevent acceptance.
• Incomplete application forms: Missing fields or unsigned forms lead to rejections.
• Incorrect payment or fees: Unverified or incorrect payments can halt processing.
• Delayed submissions or expired requests: Submitting old forms or late fingerprints may cause rejection.
• Translation or notarization errors: Wrong translations or uncertified documents for international use may be rejected.

Utilizing a reliable service provider such as Globeia can help streamline your FBI background check and limit the chance of mistakes or rejections. These providers will take care of the mobile fingerprinting, form preparation, and submissions using secure FBI-approved means. They guide you on ID requirements, whether notarization or translation, and all in order to receive a quicker and smoother background check process. With professional assistance, real-time tracking, and high acceptance rates, using an authorized service takes the hassle out of completing your FBI background check from Sydney so you can concentrate on your visa, work, or relocation plans.

• Use a valid government ID - Passport or driver’s license must be current and clear.
• Ensure fingerprints are accurate - Rolled and flat impressions reduce rejection risk.
• Double-check application details - Names, dates, and addresses must match official documents.
• Choose a trusted submission method - FBI-approved channelers or third-party services like Globeia help avoid delays.
• Include notarization or Apostille if required - Especially for documents used internationally.
• Submit early - Factor in processing times for your visa, employment, or licensing needs.

Obtaining an FBI background check from Sydney doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. By following the right steps, ensuring accurate fingerprints, and choosing a reliable submission method like a trusted third-party service such as Globeia, you can get your results quickly, accurately, and ready for international use. Planning ahead and double-checking your details ensures your application is processed smoothly the first time.