Lana Oconnell
International students in the US have been the subject of federal investigations, particularly under the Trump administration, which targeted immigration with a series of executive orders and administrative actions. Over 4,700 international students had their permission to study in the US revoked with little notice. This was due to the Department of Homeland Security running student visa holders' names through an FBI database of suspects and arrested individuals. The FBI acknowledges the benefits international students bring to US campuses, but also recognises the need to protect intellectual property and national security. FBI background checks are often required for international students, especially those teaching English in Asia. Universities such as Harvard have their own policies regarding immigration investigations, requiring warrants for enforcement action on campus.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students' legal status | A federal judge blocked immigration authorities from revoking it |
| Students' visa status | F-1 visas are single-intent "non-immigrant" visas |
| Visa Interview Waiver eligibility criteria | Restricted to individuals renewing visas in the same category |
| Visa Interview Waiver previous criteria | Individuals were eligible if their visa expired within 48 months |
| Visa Interview Waiver new criteria | Restricted to individuals whose previous visas expired within 12 months |
| FBI's role | To protect the nation from internal and external threats, including those posed to colleges and universities |
| FBI's stance on international students | The vast majority of international students pose no threat to their host institutions |
| FBI's stance on international students | International students represent indubitable contributors to their campuses' achievements |
| FBI's recommendations for colleges and universities | Take proactive steps to ensure students and faculty understand how to protect intellectual property |
| FBI's recommendations for colleges and universities | Make comprehensive, iterative efforts to ensure students and faculty understand how to share information responsibly |
| FBI's recommendations for colleges and universities | Ensure students and faculty understand how to avoid potential threats or compromises |
| FBI background check | A comprehensive review of an individual's criminal history records maintained by the FBI |
| FBI background check | Often required for employment, immigration, or licensing purposes |
| FBI records check | Managed by the Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division of the FBI |
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What You'll Learn
FBI background checks for international students
An FBI background check is a comprehensive review of an individual's criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States. While it is not a mandatory requirement for all international students, it may be necessary for specific situations or visa applications. Here are some important points regarding FBI background checks for international students:
An FBI background check is commonly required for individuals seeking to teach English abroad or apply for certain visas, such as digital nomad visas. Some countries, like South Korea and Japan, mandate FBI background checks for teachers. Additionally, certain countries may require a criminal background check as part of the visa application process.
Obtaining an FBI Background Check from Abroad
International students can obtain an FBI background check while abroad, but the process can be challenging. Here are the key steps:
- Fingerprint Collection: This is often the most difficult part of the process when abroad. You may need to locate a local police station, fingerprinting service, or embassy that can take your fingerprints using the accepted methods ink-and-roll or digital. Alternatively, you can request an FBI fingerprint card (FD-258 or FD-1164) and take your own fingerprints with black ink, ensuring they are clear and smudge-free.
- Forms and Payment: Download and carefully fill out the necessary forms, such as the Identity History Summary Request Form (FD-1164) and Form I-783. Some countries may require an apostille, which is a certification for international use. Confirm the accepted payment methods, as some options may not be available internationally.
- Submission and Shipping: Mail the completed forms, fingerprints, and payment to the FBI CJIS Division, using a reliable courier service with tracking. Include a return address within the United States. International shipping can be costly and slow, so plan accordingly.
- Processing Time: The FBI typically processes requests within 2-4 weeks, but times can vary depending on the chosen route. Using an FBI-approved channeler may expedite the process.
- Obtain the Results: You will receive your background check results from the FBI, either electronically or via postal mail. If you require an apostille, ensure you obtain one before submitting the background check to the requesting organization or country.
Additional Considerations
- Local Criminal Record Checks: Some countries or schools may accept a local or state criminal background check conducted by the local police department. However, many international organizations prefer a national-level check, such as the FBI background check.
- Costs and Fees: Aside from the $18 FBI background check fee, consider the costs of international shipping, fingerprinting services, and potential apostille fees.
- Timing: Start the process early, as visa processes can be strict about deadlines, and background checks may take longer than expected due to international shipping and processing times.
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International students' legal status
International students are defined as "non-immigrant visitors" who enter the US temporarily to take classes or take online courses virtually from anywhere in the world. The US has long been one of the most popular study-abroad destinations for international students. The number of international students in the US has been increasing from 2003 to 2019, reaching a peak of 1,095,299 in 2018.
The legal status of international students in the US has been a subject of debate and has undergone several changes over the years. In 2025, a federal judge blocked immigration authorities from revoking the legal status of international students, preventing the government from arresting, incarcerating, or moving students based on their legal status. This decision was made in response to the Trump administration's crackdown on immigrants and foreign nationals, which resulted in the cancellation of over 4,700 international students' permission to study in the US.
The FBI has acknowledged the potential risks and benefits associated with international students in the US. While academic environments offer valuable targets for foreign espionage, the majority of international students pose no threat and contribute significantly to their host institutions. International students bring financial benefits, diversity of ideas, and opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.
To maintain their legal status, international students must adhere to the terms of their visas and comply with US laws and regulations. Any criminal history or violations of their visa status may result in revocation of their legal status and potential deportation.
International students play a significant role in the US economy, contributing billions of dollars annually through tuition fees and living expenses. They also enhance the diversity and intellectual exchange within academic institutions, making them attractive to universities. However, their presence has also sparked debates about social mobility, national unity, and the impact on admissions for domestic students.
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Visa Interview Waiver eligibility criteria
The Visa Interview Waiver (IW) eligibility criteria allow certain nonimmigrant visa applicants to apply for their visa without an interview. The waiver is in the national interest and is determined by the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security. Consular officers have the authority to waive the in-person interview for first-time H-2 applicants.
To be eligible for the interview waiver process, applicants must meet certain conditions. The Department of State's website provides information on whether an applicant may qualify for an interview waiver. The process can be initiated by visiting the Visa Services website and clicking "Visa Login". The online registration procedure will inform applicants if they are eligible for the interview waiver process. Once completed, applicants will be instructed to send their application to the Embassy.
Processing times for interview waiver applications typically range from three to six weeks. However, in some cases, the Embassy may contact applicants to schedule an in-person interview with a consular officer.
It is important to note that the Visa Interview Waiver eligibility criteria are subject to change and updates. For the most current information, it is recommended to refer to the official website of the Department of State and the U.S. Embassy or consulate where the applicant intends to apply for their nonimmigrant visa.
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FBI-approved channelers
An FBI-approved Channeler is a private company or entity authorized by the FBI to collect, process, and submit fingerprints for FBI background checks. Channelers often have faster turnaround times than going directly through the FBI, but they may charge additional fees for their services. Some FBI-approved Channelers include:
- National Background Check, Inc. (NBCI): NBCI is an approved FBI Channeling Agency that provides expedited Identity History Summary Checks, also known as criminal history records or "rap sheets." They offer online results through Electronic Departmental Orders (eDO) and are ideal for individuals seeking expedited FBI background checks.
- National Background Information: Formerly known as My FBI Report, this division of National Credit Reporting has been an FBI-approved Channeler for over 30 years. They provide individuals with a quick and simple way to obtain their personal FBI Criminal Report, which can be used for various purposes, including residence, work, travel, or legal procedures.
- PrintScan: PrintScan is one of the 23 FBI-sanctioned Approved Channelers in the US. While their services are primarily tailored for US citizens and legal permanent residents, non-citizens and non-residents can also utilize their services with potential variations in pricing and result timelines. They offer electronic fingerprint transmission for rapid background checks and provide an Apostille service adhering to the Hague Convention of 1961 standards.
- Monument Visa: Monument Visa offers FBI Channeling services, allowing individuals to submit their fingerprints either in person or by mailing their fingerprint card. They accept both digital and inked fingerprints and provide results within 24-48 hours electronically.
It is important to note that FBI Channelers are not authorized to send results outside the United States, and results must be sent to a US address. Additionally, Channelers may have specific requirements and limitations, such as only handling non-criminal justice requests or not processing requests for US Immigration, employment, or licensing purposes. It is recommended to check with individual Channelers to understand their specific offerings and limitations.
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Immigration enforcement actions
International students in the US have been facing increasingly aggressive immigration enforcement efforts. In April and May 2025, thousands of international students had their permission to study in the US revoked, with little notice or explanation. This was part of the Trump administration's crackdown on immigrants and foreign nationals.
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is used to track international student status. Losing one's SEVIS record has severe and immediate consequences, including being unable to re-enter the US on a student visa. Students whose SEVIS record is terminated can ask USCIS to reinstate their status, but the process is slow and doesn't guarantee success. If removal proceedings begin, students can fight the case in immigration court, but they will need legal help. Some students may also have to challenge these actions in federal court, especially if their reinstatement is denied or they were not given a chance to respond.
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has stated that this wave of visa revocations and status terminations appears to be driven by a combination of vague foreign policy concerns and AI-assisted reviews of students' online activity. These methods lack transparency and consistency, and students often learn about a visa revocation or SEVIS termination after the fact, leaving them scrambling for answers and legal help.
The FBI has acknowledged the need to protect US campuses from foreign adversaries who aim to exploit America's accessible academic environment. At the same time, the FBI also recognizes the value of international students and the benefits they bring to US campuses, including financial gains, diversity of ideas, sought-after expertise, and opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, federal investigations can check on international students. The FBI is mandated to protect the nation from internal and external threats, including those posed to its colleges and universities.
The FBI acknowledges that foreign adversaries' efforts to exploit America's academic environment continue to grow. Colleges and universities must take proactive steps to ensure that students and faculty understand how to protect intellectual property and avoid potential threats.
Federal investigations have impacted international students' legal status and ability to remain in the country. For example, in 2025, over 4,700 international students had their permission to study in the US canceled with little notice as part of the Trump administration's crackdown on immigrants.
International students can seek advice from their university's international office, such as the Harvard International Office (HIO), which offers individualized advising, timely updates, and legal support resources. Students can also refer to their university's website for information and resources.
