What Shows up in a Background Check for Immigration?

What Are the Main Steps of Applying for Permanent Entry to the U.S.?

Living the American dream is a goal for many people worldwide. Whether you want to immigrate for better employment, more freedom, or to live closer to family, you deserve a chance to gain permanent legal residence in the United States. However, applying for residency can be quite complicated, including submitting the proper form for your situation and undergoing a background check.

If you are starting the path toward immigrating to the U.S. or have a current application that has been denied, you should consider hiring an experienced immigration attorney to help. Your lawyer can ensure your petition is filed on time to avoid delays and deportation. They can also let you know what to expect during critical steps of the process, such as medical exams and background checks. Please call the Law Office of Elsy Segovia, P.C., for excellent legal counsel and representation in all your immigration needs. You can reach us at 973-313-5794 to schedule an initial consultation.

Submit a Petition

One of the first things to consider when seeking immigration status is filing the correct petition with USCIS. It may be helpful if a U.S. citizen relative or spouse sponsors you by filing on your behalf.

Many immigrants must have an I-485 form, but your unique circumstances could affect which form you must submit. Contact your immigration attorney to be sure you have the necessary documents when applying for permanent residency or citizenship.

Provide Evidence to the USCIS

Another crucial aspect of immigration applications is to include the proper evidence. This could include marriage certificates and photos of you with your U.S. citizen spouse if you are applying because of marriage. You may also need to submit evidence that you are a person of good moral standing. Your attorney can help you identify and gather evidence to give you the best chance of getting your application approved.

Medical Exam and Interview

You may also need to submit to a medical exam and go through an interview process with USCIS.

Submit to a Background Check

Finally, you will be required to go through a background check to ensure you are not a threat to national safety. A background check can include results such as your criminal history and immigration status violations.

What Items Show Up on a USCIS Background Check?

Many people wonder what will be included in a USCIS background check when applying to become a United States permanent resident. Background checks let USCIS know whether you have a criminal record or any past visa violations. This can affect your chances of immigration approval, so you should be honest and forthcoming about any criminal history in your application.

Criminal Record

According to the USCIS website, “background checks consist of four separate checks against systems within the Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).”

A fingerprint test is used to search the individual’s criminal history, giving USCIS valuable insight into the person’s past. If they have been convicted of crimes considered serious, such as felonies, the person’s application may be denied.

Visa Violations

Visa violations may also show up in background results. Some examples include failure to maintain lawful status while living in the United States and violating the terms of nonimmigrant status. However, these terms do not apply to certain applicants, such as those seeking status under VAWA. Talk to your lawyer right away if you think a background check might show issues with visa violations.

What Can I Do to Improve My Chances of Getting My Application Approved?

You may be worried about the results of your background check, but there are some steps you can take to increase your chances of having your immigration application approved.

Hire an Experienced Immigration Lawyer

One of the most important things you can do to ensure a successful immigration application is to hire a knowledgeable immigration lawyer. Your attorney will understand how U.S. laws affect your unique situation and can give you counsel based on your circumstances. They will help you file the correct petitions promptly, including submitting fingerprints for a background check.

If any issues arise during your application, they may be able to help you with an appeal. Call our law firm today for more information about how we can help you.

Should You Hire Our Immigration Attorney?

Going through the immigration process can be complicated and frustrating. However, achieving your intended immigration status is extremely rewarding and well worth the effort. It is important to understand that you don’t have to go through this challenging procedure alone. You can hire Attorney Elsy Segovia and have someone on your side who is knowledgeable, dedicated, and attentive to your unique needs.

At the Law Office of Elsy Segovia, P.C., we understand how daunting the U.S. immigration process can be. We promise to listen carefully to your concerns and handle your case with care. We have helped countless clients gain the immigration status they’re seeking, including reuniting families on United States soil. We promise to leverage our experience, knowledge, and skills to help you and your loved ones with your immigration goals.

When you hire our legal team, you can have the peace of mind that your case is being handled by talented, experienced legal professionals who will work tirelessly for you. Call 973-313-5794 today to schedule a consultation with our legal team and see firsthand how having the right legal help can make all the difference in your immigration case.