MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA – For years, Americans living in Colombia have largely relied on ink fingerprint cards and international mail to obtain FBI background checks. However, an alternative workflow now exists through direct FBI Channeler electronic submissions.
OnCallColombia, the first provider in Colombia to offer direct FBI Channeler electronic submissions, is working to educate consumers about the differences between traditional mail-in processing and electronic submission, particularly for those facing visa, residency, employment, licensing, and immigration deadlines.
Many Americans remain unaware that multiple FBI background check workflows exist. While both methods ultimately produce an FBI Identity History Summary Check, the process used to obtain the report can significantly affect turnaround times, predictability, and overall risk.
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE
Traditional Mail-In FBI Background Check Process
• Fingerprints captured on an FD-258 fingerprint card
• Physical fingerprint card mailed to the United States
• International transit and delivery time
• FBI intake and processing
• Results issued after processing is complete
The traditional mail-in process remains a valid and widely used option for Americans living abroad. However, it relies on the successful transportation and processing of physical fingerprint cards.
Direct Electronic FBI Channeler Submission Process
• Fingerprints digitally captured
• Electronic submission through an FBI-approved Channeler
• No international mailing of fingerprint cards
• Reduced dependence on shipping timelines
• Faster access to FBI results for eligible applicants
According to OnCallColombia, some electronic submissions have resulted in FBI reports being returned in as little as 15 minutes after submission.
The company notes that electronic processing can be especially valuable for Americans facing strict deadlines related to Colombian visas, residency applications, citizenship matters, employment screening, professional licensing, adoption cases, and other time-sensitive requirements.
A GROWING NEED AMONG AMERICANS IN COLOMBIA
Demand for FBI background checks has increased substantially as more Americans relocate to Colombia for retirement, remote work, marriage, investment, and long-term residency.
Many Colombian visa categories require an FBI Identity History Summary Check that must then be authenticated through a federal apostille process and, in many cases, translated into Spanish.
As a result, delays during the FBI background check stage can affect the timeline of an entire immigration application.
OnCallColombia notes that consumers frequently compare providers based solely on price without understanding the workflow being used. While both traditional mail-in processing and direct electronic submission can ultimately produce the same FBI report, the methods differ significantly in terms of speed, predictability, shipping requirements, and operational risk.
THE QUESTIONS CONSUMERS SHOULD ASK
Before selecting an FBI background check provider, consumers should understand the process being offered and consider asking the following questions:
• Does your process require mailing fingerprint cards to the FBI?
• Do you offer direct electronic submission?
• What happens if fingerprints are rejected?
• Does your turnaround estimate include shipping and transit times?
• Do you offer digital fingerprint capture or only ink fingerprint cards?
• Can you provide a projected completion date?
• How much experience does your organization have processing FBI background checks?
According to OnCallColombia, consumers who understand the distinction between traditional mail-in processing and direct electronic submission are better equipped to choose the solution that aligns with their timeline, budget, and risk tolerance.
INDUSTRY CONTEXT
Historically, Americans outside the United States have primarily relied on FD-258 fingerprint cards that are mailed to the FBI for processing. This remains the method most commonly discussed online and referenced in government guidance.
However, advancements in digital fingerprint capture and electronic submission technology have created alternative workflows that reduce dependence on international shipping and physical document transport.
As awareness of these options grows, consumers are increasingly evaluating providers based not only on cost, but also on processing method, turnaround time, and overall reliability.
ABOUT ONCALLCOLOMBIA
OnCallColombia is a concierge, legal support, and document services company serving foreigners throughout Colombia. The company assists clients with FBI background checks, fingerprinting, federal apostilles, certified translations, immigration support, healthcare coordination, and related administrative services.
The company operates through a network of vetted service providers and fulfillment partners throughout Colombia and the United States.
Media Contact
Company Name: OnCallColombia
Contact Person: Media Contact
Email: Send Email
Country: Colombia
Website: https://oncallcolombia.com