Are you an international applicant needing to obtain your FBI Identity History Summary? This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have all the information you need for a smooth application experience.
What is an FBI Identity History Summary?
An FBI Identity History Summary, also known as a “rap sheet,” is an official document that lists any arrests and convictions on your record in the United States. Many international applicants need this for various purposes, such as employment, visa applications, immigration or adoption processes.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Choose Your Submission Method
a) Electronic Submission
Faster processing time
Requires access to a computer and internet
- Visit edo.cjis.gov.
- Follow the steps under the “how to submit a request” and submit a request electronically directly to the FBI
- You will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours after you submit the request
- Pay US$18 for the Identity History Summary Check online.
- Find an accredited fingerprint agency in Canada to obtain your fingerprint card (FD-1164)
- Mail the completed fingerprint card, along with the confirmation email to the address listed on your confirmation email.
b) Mail-in Submission
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Suitable if you prefer traditional methods
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May take longer to process
- Complete Applicant Information Form
- Obtain Your Fingerprints on FD-1164 form.
- Prepare your payment
- pay by credit card using the Credit Card Payment Form.
- pay by Money Order or Certified Check for US$18 payable to the Treasury of the United States.
- Review documents based on the Identity History Summary Request Checklist
- Mail your documents to:
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FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request 1000 Custer Hollow Road Clarksburg, WV 26306
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Processing Time
- Online Request: around 2 weeks after FBI receives the fingerprint card package
- Mail Request: Up to 20 days, plus extra time for delivery.
Tips for Success
- You must provide a current fingerprint card ( not a previously processed one.)
- The name on your response letter will match the name indicated on the fingerprint card when your application, payment, and fingerprint card are submitted via the mail.
- Do not pay via cash, personal checks, or business checks. This will delay the processing of your request.
- Payment must be for the exact amount.
- If the request is for a couple, family, etc., include $18 for each person.
- click here to see more tips for ink-rolled fingerprints
(Source: Get Your Identity History Summary/Rap Sheet https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/identity-history-summary-checks)
