Updated: 23/03/06

If you are currently overseas and not within the US, the FBI has updated its policy this year, and those interested in getting a new FBI background check done must contact the FBI directly and no longer use a channeling agency. Please contact your nearest FBI International Office by clicking the link: CLICK HERE

UPDATED: 22/01/18

Obtaining an FBI background check is one of the most headache-inducing parts of applying to teach English in Korea. And with the excruciatingly-slow 3-4 month FBI processing time, it’s easy to see why.

But now Korvia has teamed up with Accurate Biometrics (one of the leading FBI-approved channelers) to create an FBI background check process specifically for those looking to teach in South Korea. Not only that, but you will be able to receive your results back in approximately ONE WEEK!

This channeled FBI background check is accepted by both Korean immigration and English teaching programs in Korea (EPIK, GEPIK, SMOE, GOE), making it the best way to get an FBI background check if you want to teach English in Korea.

As EPIK and SMOE operate on a first-come-first-serve basis, applicants know that getting your documents in fast is one of the most important factors for getting your 1st location choice. If you’re trying to get into the SMOE program (Seoul), then speed is of the utmost importance.

Follow these steps, and you will have an FBI background check in your hands in approximately 5-7 business days:

 

1. Get fingerprinted at your local police station right now

If you’re reading this and the sun is still out, get your fingerprints taken at your local police station right now. Print out two (2) standard FD258 fingerprint forms on standard A4 computer paper and take them with you. Two sets of prints are required by Accurate Biometrics to channel an FBI background check.

KORVIA PRO TIP: Get extra sets of fingerprints taken

This will save you a lot of time in the future if you ever plan to change jobs after your first year in Korea. By doing this, you can hold onto the extra sets and send one of them back to the US to get an additional FBI background check when needed. This lets you bypass the hassle of having to get fingerprinted in Korea and send your results back to the US. Kill two birds with one stone!

FBI Background Check Rocketship

2. Fill out the Application Form

Download the Accurate Biometrics Korvia Form. This form is tailored for those that are going to teach English in South Korea. Fill out the sections HIGHLIGHTED in yellow. You can select the standard shipping service, but if you want your results even faster, choose the 2-day mailing service.

KORVIA PRO TIP: Apply Secured PDF FBI Result and obtain an Apostille using Monument Visa Service.

Select “Option 1” on your application form and provide an e-mail address for faster FBI result. This service is provided to allow the applicant to retrieve/save/print your individual FBI response.

3. Fill out the payment form at the bottom of the application

We’ve worked with Accurate Biometrics to give applicants a $5.00 discount on the service. This service only costs $50 (including standard shipping) or $85 for your results with super-fast shipping. So in comparison, you have the option to either pay the FBI directly $20 and wait 4 months, or use this service for $55 and only wait 1 week.

*Due to rising costs for shipping and administrative fees, Accurate Biometrics is increasing the shipping/mailing fees as of August 1st, 2022.  The fee will be increased by $5.00 for standard USPS mail and $10.00 for Priority shipping. 

Make sure to pay by credit card to avoid any extra processing time!

4. Send

Send off the above application, payment form, and two sets of fingerprints in a manilla envelope (don’t you dare fold anything!) to the following address:

Accurate Biometrics
Attn: Korvia
500 Park Boulevard
Suite 1260
Itasca, IL 60143

5. Wait for your FBI Background Check

Wait approximately 5-7 business days for your results to be channeled and mailed back to you.

6. Pat yourself on the back

That’s it! Pat yourself on the back and know that you just saved yourself 90% of the time by doing it the standard way. If you’ve already accepted a position and are in a bit of time crunch, using this service can be a life-saver.

EPIK Program FBI Criminal Background Check

For more detailed steps and information, please head over to the Official Accurate Biometrics – Korvia page on the Accurate Biometrics website.

As of 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced that it will no longer accept job applications from individuals who are located outside of the United States. This includes FBI background check channeler applications. Therefore, only U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents who are physically present in the U.S. will be eligible to apply for positions with the FBI. If you have any further questions about the application process, please contact the FBI directly.

Featured images courtesy of FreePik 1, 2