Does the NVC require police documentation from all the places I have lived?

When starting an immigration process, especially for visas like the EB-3, it is common to have questions about the documentation required by the National Visa Center (NVC). One frequent question is whether the NVC requests police documentation from all the places where you have lived.

In practice, the NVC usually asks for criminal background certificates – or equivalent police documentation – from each country where the applicant has resided for extended periods, typically six months or more after reaching a certain age (generally from 16 years old). This requirement exists to ensure there are no security or immigration concerns that might affect visa eligibility. However, each case may have particularities, and the NVC may provide specific guidance depending on the applicant’s background.

It is important to emphasize that you should always follow the official instructions provided by the NVC and the United States Department of State. The rules may vary according to changes in legislation and the individual circumstances of each case. Therefore, carefully reviewing official communications and established requirements is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises and delays in the process.

Additionally, it is worth remembering the importance of strictly following the laws and immigration procedures established by the United States. Seeking information from official sources and, when necessary, consulting specialized advisors can make a difference in organizing and successfully managing your case. At the same time, it is essential to be cautious with miraculous promises in marketing campaigns or approaches that guarantee easy results since every process is unique and depends on various factors.

In summary, if you have lived in more than one country, be prepared to gather police documentation from each place where you spent a significant period. Follow the official guidelines and remember that transparency and compliance with regulations are fundamental pillars in any immigration process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.