FBI Background Check
for United Kingdom

Do I Need an FBI Background Check for the United Kingdom?

U.S. citizens applying for certain visas, employment authorization, or long-term residency in the United Kingdom may be required to provide a police or criminal background check from their country of citizenship.

In some cases, this requirement can be satisfied with an FBI fingerprint-based background check, also known as an FBI Identity History Summary. This is more common for employment-based visas, long-term work assignments, and residency applications. Short-term travel to the UK generally does not require an FBI background check. Requirements depend on the visa type and the UK authority or employer handling the application.

Document Requirements and Validity

When an FBI background check is accepted for use in the United Kingdom, additional documentation may be required depending on the application. The UK is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, and apostille requirements may apply in certain cases.

UK authorities typically require the background check to be issued within a specific timeframe, commonly within six months of submission. Translation is generally not required for documents submitted in English unless otherwise specified.

Applicants should always confirm whether an FBI background check is acceptable for their specific visa, as requirements may vary by program.

How to Apply

Certifix offers nationwide electronic enrollment for FBI background checks used for UK visa and employment applications when required.

Applicants can enroll online from anywhere in the United States, submit fingerprints electronically or using a fingerprint card, and add apostille services when applicable.