If you are an American teacher planning to work overseas, you will likely need an FBI background check before your work visa or teaching permit can be approved.
Many countries require proof that foreign teachers have a clean criminal record before allowing them to work with students.
The official name is an FBI Identity History Summary Check, but teachers commonly call it:
The process can take time, especially if you are already living outside the United States.
This guide explains how to request your FBI background check, submit fingerprints, authenticate documents, and avoid common delays.
To get an FBI background check for teaching abroad:
Most teachers should begin this process several months before their planned start date.
Timing matters. Many countries only accept background checks issued recently. For example, some teaching applications require criminal background checks to be issued within the last 3–6 months. Starting too early can cause your document to expire. Starting too late can delay your work permit.
A good timeline:
| Timeline | Action |
|---|---|
| 4–6 months before moving | Research country requirements |
| 2–4 months before | Begin FBI process |
| After receiving results | Complete authentication if required |
| Before visa submission | Confirm document is still valid |
The official FBI request page:
You can apply directly through the FBI.
You will need:
The FBI will process your fingerprints and provide your Identity History Summary.
The FBI background check is fingerprint based. You need fingerprint submissions using an approved fingerprint format. If you are in the United States:
Options include:
If you are submitting your FBI Identity History Summary request by mail, send your fingerprint card and required documents to:
FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request
1000 Custer Hollow Road
Clarksburg, WV 26306
USA
Before mailing, make sure you include:
Official fingerprint form:
If you are already living abroad, you can still complete the process.
Steps:
Recommended:
Use a tracked courier service such as:
because normal international mail can take much longer or get delayed.
Many teachers choose an FBI-approved channeler because it can be faster.
Channelers are companies approved to submit requests to the FBI electronically.
Official FBI channeler list:
Channelers can help with:
Additional service fees normally apply.
Many teachers realize they need an FBI background check after already moving overseas. You usually do not need to fly back to America.
The process is:
Options vary depending on your country.
Possible locations include:
Before going:
If you are already abroad:
Many teachers use courier services because regular international mail can be slow.
Getting the FBI check is sometimes only step one.Many countries require the document to be authenticated before accepting it.
Examples:
Always check your destination country's requirements before submitting documents.
Avoid:
The FBI background check process is simple, but timing is important. For teachers moving abroad, the biggest problems usually come from:
Plan your timeline before applying and your transition overseas will be much smoother.
Global School Scout helps teachers:
