How does the criminal background check work in the L-1 process?

The criminal background check is a standard step in the L-1 process. It confirms that the applicant does not pose a security risk to the United States and meets the requirements of immigration law. In practice, more than one agency is involved in this review.

Both USCIS and the Department of State review the applicant’s history. During the process, the applicant completes forms with questions about criminal history, prior proceedings or investigations, and transparency in those answers is essential.

Those who have lived outside the United States for relevant periods may be asked to provide police clearance certificates issued by the authorities of those countries. It is advisable to verify on the official source from which length of residence this requirement applies, as that type of criterion may vary.

• USCIS and the Department of State review the applicant’s history.
• Forms include questions about criminal history.
• Residence abroad may require local clearance certificates.
• Fingerprint collection feeds checks against government databases.

Fingerprint collection is standard and enables queries against databases such as the FBI’s. Since procedures may be updated, confirm current details with USCIS and, if you have any concerns about your history, seek expert guidance before filing.

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.