Do they do a criminal background check for a passport?
Asked by: Jany Steuber | Last update: May 23, 2025Score: 4.8/5 (12 votes)
There is no question about criminal history on the application for a passport, but one thing a person needs to keep in mind is that a passport is simply a form of international identification.
Do they run a background check to get a passport?
The US State Department handles passport applications and conducts background checks on applicants using the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database.
What will disqualify you from getting a passport?
Some reasons to deny a passport include: A valid, unsealed federal warrant of arrest. A federal or state criminal court order. A condition of parole or probation forbidding departure from the United States (or the jurisdiction of the court)
Can a felon eventually get a passport?
Having a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify someone from getting a passport. The State Department typically only denies passports for specific reasons like: Owing $2,500+ in child support. Being subject to sex offender registration requirements.
What do they check for when applying for a passport?
- Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card.
- In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo.
- Certificate of Naturalization.
- Certificate of Citizenship.
- Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
I want to travel, will my criminal history come up?
Does your criminal record show up when your passport is scanned?
When USA customs scan your passports they do not see criminal history/records. They only see criminal records if they investigate further like secondary inspection or suspect foul play when crossing.
What background for a passport?
Your photo must be taken against a plain white or off-white background. Your expression should be neutral with both eyes open and directly facing the camera. Photos with unusual expressions and squinting will not be accepted.
Does a DUI show up on your passport?
Passports do not list information about a person's criminal record, including charges for driving under the influence (DUI).
Can felons go on a cruise?
Cruise Line Background Checks
As a result, you could be denied boarding if you are a sex offender or have a violent felony conviction on your record, such as for armed robbery.
What convictions stop you from entering Mexico?
Serious crimes include, among others: manslaughter; terrorism and international terrorism; sabotage; piracy; genocide; prison break; attacks on public thoroughfares; drug-related crimes; corruption of minors; child pornography; exploitation of minors; falsifying and counterfeit of currency; rape; highway robbery; ...
What can hold you up from getting a passport?
- Outstanding child support payment of $2,500 or more. ...
- Seriously delinquent tax debt (via notification from the Secretary of the Treasury) ...
- Unsealed federal warrant for the applicant's arrest.
- Federal or state court order.
Can I get a passport if I'm on probation?
654. IMPORTANT! GET PERMISSION FROM YOUR PAROLE OR PROBATION OFFICER TO APPLY FOR A PASSPORT OR TRAVEL: If you are on supervision (like parole or probation), you MUST get permission from your parole or probation officer if you want to apply for a Passport (even if you are legally allowed to leave the country).
Can I travel with a misdemeanor?
Will a misdemeanor conviction affect my travel plans? It depends on the country you're visiting. Some countries, such as Canada, treat misdemeanors like DUIs as grounds for denying entry. Others may not consider minor offenses disqualifying unless they involve violence or drugs.
What disqualifies a person from getting a passport?
misdemeanor federal or state drug offense AND the Secretary of State makes an individual determination that in your case a passport shall not be issued (this section does not apply to a first conviction for a misdemeanor which involves only possession of a controlled substance).
What shows up on a background check for a government job?
The appointment of any civilian employee to a position in the Federal Government is subject to a background investigation. Examples of factors investigated with a background evaluation are an applicant's employment history, past illegal drug use, and previous records criminal.
Do you get a refund if your passport is denied?
We cannot refund the passport application fee and the execution fee. By law, we collect both fees and keep them even if a passport is not issued.
What felonies disqualify you from getting a passport?
What felonies disqualify you from getting a passport: Cybercrime. Human trafficking. Federal drug charges, including trafficking, manufacturing, and selling drugs.
Can I go to the Bahamas if I have a felony?
All U.S. Nationals who are currently on community supervision cannot enter the Bahamas, but can seek entry once their sentence is completed.
Can felons travel to Hawaii?
Having a criminal record does not automatically bar you from traveling to the US, including Hawaii. With the appropriate US Entry Waiver, you can legally enter the country and enjoy your trip without issues.
What country won't let you in with a DUI?
There are several countries that will not allow someone with a DUI on their record to enter their borders. These countries include Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Canada, for example, has strict entry requirements for individuals with criminal records, including those with a DUI conviction.
Can you get a passport with a suspended license?
Decoding the Suspended License Dilemma
For instance, a suspension due to a first-time DUI might not impede your ability to obtain a passport. However, more severe offenses, particularly those classified as felonies, could lead to application denial.
Do they do a background check for a passport?
There is no question about criminal history on the application for a passport, but one thing a person needs to keep in mind is that a passport is simply a form of international identification. It allows a person to get back into the U.S. but does not allow entry into a foreign country.
What background is rejected for passport photo?
There should not be any other people or objects present in the photo and it should be taken against a light grey or cream screen or background. It is also important that the digital photo is in focus, not blurry and a clear contrast to the background.
What disqualifies a passport photo?
Your full face must be visible and your hat or head covering cannot cast shadows or cover part of your face.