Do I need a criminal background check from the country where I live or also from other countries where I have lived?

Generally, both. In the L-1 process, applicants are typically required to provide criminal background checks not only from the country where they currently reside, but also from other countries where they have lived for a significant period.

The purpose is to give the authorities a complete picture of your conduct over time, across the different jurisdictions where you have lived. A transparent and clean record helps immigration authorities evaluate your profile.

Because the details can vary, a few points are worth keeping in mind:

• The length of residency that triggers the requirement may vary depending on the case and local laws.
• Each country issues these documents differently, with its own timelines and procedures.
• Translations may be required, depending on the applicable instructions.

For these reasons, it is advisable to review the specific instructions from the responsible consulate or embassy, as well as the latest official guidance, before gathering your documents to make sure nothing is missing.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.