How to Get an FBI Criminal Record Check in Leeds Without Visiting the US

An FBI Criminal Record Check isn’t something you can replace, shortcut, or ignore when it’s required. If a US authority, employer, licensing body, or immigration office has asked for it, they expect one thing only: an official FBI-issued result backed by fingerprints. For people based in Leeds, this often raises a simple but critical question - how do you complete an FBI criminal record check without setting foot in the United States?

The good news is that physical presence in the US is not required. What matters is accurate fingerprint capture, correct FBI-compliant forms, and submission through the right authorized channels. This guide explains exactly how residents of Leeds can complete an FBI Criminal Record Check from the UK, what options actually work, how long the process takes, and how Globeia manages the entire process end-to-end - from fingerprinting to FBI submission and optional Apostille, without unnecessary delays or errors.

An FBI Criminal Record Check, officially called an FBI Identity History Summary Check, is a fingerprint-based background check issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States. It confirms whether an individual has any criminal history recorded at the federal level within the FBI’s national database, which aggregates records submitted by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies across the US.

Unlike many local or national police certificates, an FBI criminal record check is entirely fingerprint-based. The FBI does not issue this report using names, dates of birth, or addresses alone. Fingerprints are mandatory because they ensure identity accuracy and prevent false matches - a key reason US authorities rely on this check for sensitive decisions.

This check is fundamentally different from UK police checks such as ACRO or DBS, which only cover records held within the United Kingdom. It is also different from police certificates issued by other countries, as the FBI report is the only document accepted by US federal authorities for background verification purposes. When an organization specifically requests an FBI check, no alternative police certificate can substitute it.

An FBI Criminal Record Check is commonly required for Leeds-based applicants in the following situations:

• Individuals applying for US immigration, visas, or adjustment of status.
• UK residents who previously lived, worked, or studied in the United States.
• Professionals applying for US-based employment, licensing, or compliance approvals.
• Applicants involved in international adoption or custody processes linked to the US.
• People requested to submit an FBI check for foreign visas, residency, or work permits.
• Individuals needing the report for legal, court, or regulatory purposes.
• Applicants whose FBI report must later be apostilled for international use.

Applicants in Leeds have three legitimate routes to obtain an FBI Criminal Record Check. While all are valid, they differ significantly in accuracy, effort, processing time, and overall risk.

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

This option involves applying to the FBI without intermediaries. The applicant is fully responsible for fingerprinting, paperwork, international mailing, and compliance. How it works

• Download the FBI Identity History Summary request and the FD-258/FD-1164 fingerprint card.
• Arrange ink fingerprinting locally in the UK.
• Mail the fingerprint card, application form, and payment to the FBI CJIS Division in the United States
• Wait for processing and international delivery of results.

What to consider

• Processing times are longer due to overseas mailing and FBI queue.
• Any fingerprint quality issue results in rejection and resubmission.
• No guidance on form accuracy or submission requirements.
• Tracking, follow-ups, and corrections must be handled personally.

This route is technically valid but best suited only for applicants who are familiar with FBI procedures and comfortable managing international submissions independently.

Option 2: Submit Through an FBI-Approved Channeler

FBI-approved channelers are authorised US companies that submit Identity History Summary requests on behalf of applicants, usually with faster turnaround times. How it works

• Fingerprints are submitted to a channeler (digitally or via mailed fingerprint cards).
• The channeler forwards the request to the FBI electronically.
• Results are typically issued faster than direct FBI submissions.

Limitations for Leeds applicants

• Most FBI channelers operate only within the United States.
• UK applicants often still need to mail ink fingerprint cards internationally.
• Channelers focus on submission speed, not end-to-end support.
• Apostille support and document handling are usually not included.
• Little to no assistance if fingerprints are rejected or incomplete.

While faster than direct FBI submission, this option still leaves much of the responsibility with the applicant.

Option 3: Apply Through an Authorized, Accredited Company (Recommended)

The most practical and reliable option for Leeds residents is applying through an authorized, accredited company such as Globeia, which manages the entire FBI background check process end-to-end. How it works

• Book fingerprinting through Globeia (in-office or mobile).
• Fingerprints are taken on FBI-compliant FD-258 or FD-1164 cards.
• Identity verification and fingerprint quality checks are completed on the spot.
• Applications are prepared accurately using guided SmartForm technology.
• Submission is handled through Globeia’s authorized US processing channels.
• Results can be tracked on Globeia Smart Portal and delivered digitally.

Why this option works best

• Highest acceptance rate due to professionally captured fingerprints
• No international mailing or manual tracking required
• Reduced risk of rejection or delays
• Support available if apostille or additional document steps are needed
• Designed for professionals, students, and time-sensitive cases

Although this option involves a service fee, it removes complexity, uncertainty, and repeat submissions which is why it is the preferred choice for most applicants in Leeds.

Step 1: Submit an FBI Identity History Summary Request

An FBI Criminal Record Check officially begins with an Identity History Summary Request. This is the FBI’s formal request to search its national criminal history database using your fingerprints and personal details. You must provide:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Contact details

Using a guided digital application (such as Globeia’s SmartForm) helps ensure these details align exactly with FBI requirements, reducing the risk of delays.

Step 2: Capture Fingerprints in FBI-Approved Format

The FBI does not accept name-based checks. Fingerprints are mandatory. Fingerprints must be taken on:

• FD-258 , or
• FD-1164 

Fingerprints can be captured using ink or digital methods, but they must meet FBI technical standards for clarity, ridge detail, and positioning.

Step 3: Fingerprint Quality Review

Before submission, fingerprints should be reviewed to confirm:

• All ten prints are clearly rolled
• Ridge detail is visible
• No smudging or partial impressions

Poor-quality fingerprints are the most common reason for FBI rejections. Professional review at this stage significantly improves acceptance rates.

Step 4: Submission to the FBI CJIS Division

Once fingerprints and personal details are complete, the application is submitted to the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division in the United States. Submissions can be made:

• Electronically (faster), or
• Via mailed fingerprint cards (slower)

Authorized service providers streamline this step by submitting electronically through approved U.S. channels.

Step 5: FBI Processing and Record Search

The FBI processes your request by:

• Matching fingerprints against national criminal databases
• Verifying identity accuracy
• Reviewing any potential matches manually if required

If no record is found, the result confirms a “Negative”. If a record exists, the FBI issues a detailed summary.

Step 6: Delivery of FBI Results

FBI results are issued:

• Electronically (PDF) for digital submissions
• By mail if paper submission is used

Typical processing time:

• 1-3 business days for electronic submissions
• Longer if manual review is required

Step 7: Optional Use for International or Official Purposes

Depending on where the FBI report will be used, additional steps may be required, such as:

• U.S. Apostille for international recognition
• Submission to foreign authorities, employers, or licensing bodies

Service providers like Globeia can assist with these post-FBI steps if required, ensuring the document is accepted abroad.

The FBI Criminal Record Check process can be very difficult for people living outside the US to understand, but with the help of an authorized service provider like Globeia, it becomes a quick and headache-free experience. Globeia has a SmartPortal that is fully tracked and monitored, which means that you can follow your application progress live, making it very clear and safe for you. The security of the data is very important and all the sensitive information is secured with top-notch protocols in the industry. With a global presence reaching the US, Canada, and the UK, Globeia is able to provide local knowledge along with international access, so wherever you are, your application for a job, immigration, education, or licensing will be processed without any hassles. 

Their services are all-inclusive and comprise of the whole process from picking up fingerprints, preparing the forms until the submission to the FBI and an optional apostille or the certification for international usage. Even though Automation takes care of a lot of the processes making them precise and fast, still, each stage is backed by human touch, which means that the applicants get personal help and the errors that could slow down the approval process are minimized. Through the combination of technology, global mobility, and support, Globeia makes sure that your FBI background check is done in a timely, correct, and professional manner - all the while you are not having to face the annoyance of dealing with technical forms, submissions, and international requirements.

Tips for a Successful FBI Background Check 

• Ensure all fingerprints are clear, complete, and compliant with FD-258 or FD-1164 standards.
• Use a valid government-issued ID for identity verification during fingerprinting.
• Submit your application early to accommodate processing times and avoid delays.
• Double-check all required documents and confirm if apostille or notarization is needed for your intended use.
• Choose a trusted submission method or authorized service provider to minimize errors and improve acceptance rates.
• Keep copies of all submitted forms and fingerprints for tracking and reference.

Completing your FBI background criminal record check in Leeds doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. By following the proper steps, verifying your identity, and submitting fingerprints accurately, you can ensure your application is processed smoothly. Partnering with an authorized service provider like Globeia adds an extra layer of precision, tracking, and support, making your end-to-end experience seamless. Whether you need your background check for professional, legal, or international purposes, leveraging expert guidance simplifies the process and saves valuable time.