How Far Does Green Card Background Check Go?

A green card applicant must go through several steps in order to obtain permanent residency, citizenship, or employment in the United States of America. As part of this process, the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) conducts a background check.

This step can be confusing, particularly if you don’t know what information is required by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Are you wondering how to make your petition as seamless as possible? Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, can help. We will answer your questions about the immigration process and the green card background check. 

What Is Background Check for Green Card?

A green card background check is a process where the FBI looks into an individual’s past to determine whether they are eligible to receive lawful permanent resident status. This involves a thorough review of the applicant’s criminal and immigration background as well as any prior arrests.

The FBI checks your identity, criminal records, immigration status, and arrests. It also collects your fingerprints and runs a “name check” to ensure that no law enforcement concerns exist. The purpose of the green card background check is to ensure that only individuals who are eligible for lawful permanent resident status receive it.

During the green card background check, USCIS focuses on the applicant’s eligibility for the immigration benefit they are seeking. In particular, USCIS looks for evidence of:

• Unlawful presence in the U.S.;
• Prior deportations;
• Illegal drug involvement crimes, domestic violence, or other crimes;
• Misrepresentation of applications;
• Membership in subversive organizations; and
• Other law enforcement concerns.

If you have been convicted of certain criminal offenses or have any drug convictions, you will automatically be disqualified from getting a green card. USCIS also looks into any issues that could indicate national security concerns.