All applications or petitions filed with USCIS require a
security check to be conducted of the applicant. You
may find that your case is pending beyond expected
processing times due to these security checks. We are
providing some information regarding security checks to
enable you to better understand this process.
Why is a security check needed on my case?
USCIS performs background security checks to ensure
that immigration benefits are given only to eligible
applicants. A wide range of possible risk factors are
accounted for and different applications undergo
different levels of scrutiny.
What security checks does USCIS use?
There are several types of background checks that
USCIS uses. The three commonly used security checks are:
·
"IBIS" is the Interagency Border
Inspection System Name Check. "IBIS" checks are run
before any petition or application can be adjudicated.
IBIS provides data relating to national security risks,
public safety issues and other law enforcement
concerns. A "hit" in IBIS requires that USCIS check
with the agency that input the original data before the
application or petition can be adjudicated.
·
FBI Fingerprint Checks are done prior to
adjudicating adjustment of status applications, asylum
applications, and other applications with permanent
duration. The FBI fingerprint check provides information
relating to criminal background within the United
States.
·
FBI Name Check is separate from the
Fingerprint Check. The records maintained in the FBI
name check process consist of administrative, applicant,
criminal, personnel and other files compiled by law
enforcement. When there is a "hit" in a name check,
USCIS must wait for the FBI to resolve the "hit".
It is not possible for an application to be granted
until completion of the security check and USCIS does
not expedite these checks.
Why is my security check taking so long?
Since USCIS cannot grant an application or petition
until the security check is completed, pending
background checks will delay processing of your case.
If a background check response is received that requires
further investigation, then the check will remain
pending until the investigation has been resolved. This
is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process and
could take several months or years to complete.
How can I find out the status of my security
check?
USCIS does
not share information about the records match or the
nature or status of any investigation with applicants or
their representatives. However, you can contact your
congressional representative to inquire on your behalf
on long pending security checks. Any congressional
inquiry must be initiated by the applicant.
Do
security checks effect any other applications?
Yes,
security checks are also performed on all applications
for visas at U.S. Consulates/Embassies abroad. These
checks are performed each time you apply for a visa. In
addition to the background security checks described
above, visa applicants may also experience delays due to
the Technology Alert List (TAL). Please see our Memo
regarding security checks and travel delays for more
information:
Travel Warning - Security Check.
Further
resources:
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