Background check questions

[johnnyv 20]

I'm pretty sure the USCIS runs a background check on the petitioner. I am worried about this, probably for all the wrong reasons, and I wanted some reassurance/clarification.

I've never been arrested and charged with anything. I've only had speeding tickets and one wreckless driving ticket that was thrown out. But never charged with anything. But I'm still worried.

When I was in my mid teens I had lots of issues with my abusive parents and had conflicts that put me in a child center. The police escorted me there. But that's the most from my childhood.

I've also had many therapist visits for anxiety, depression, and bipolar. Do these all show up? I can't help but think yes because you do provide your SSN#. I'm worried all of this will affect my petition.

I'm pretty sure that everyone who applies doesn't have a perfect record, hardly anyone, but I'm still worried. What are your thoughts? Any similar things anyone could relate to that could put my mind at ease?

[sammdt 4]

Hi there...am not pretty sure of my reply but I'll just try to keep you calm...Based on my own understanding, they will do the background check, like the criminal records, and check the records if you did petition someone prior to the existing petition...but don't worry much...stay calm and wait patiently...if problems arise, face it and resolve strategically...goodluck!

[St&Sv 33]

My personal thoughts are you have nothing extremely major in your history that will prevent your petition from going through. That being said they may bring it up at her interview, highly doubtful and even if they dug that far, but if she already knows then it wouldn't be any surprise to her. As the person above me says, just face anything that comes as it comes. No use pulling out hairs thinking about it, or you'll end up bald like me. It's not bad though, my girl likes the feel of it and maybe yours will too

[Ryan H 3,812]

Moving from K1 Process & Procedures to General Immigration-Related Discussion; topic is applicable to more than just one visa process.

**Organizer hat off**

OP, unless you were convicted of crime that falls under the Adam Walsh Act (which deals with sex crimes), then you are not barred from petitioning and all the other items you mention has no bearing one way or the other on the petition.

Edited May 25, 2013 by Ryan H

[Enigma11561 336]

You were never arrested. Period. End of conversation. And half of America has anxiety and depression. I do not think they even check medical records. Relax, you are good to go.

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

The background checks are for sex crimes and acts of violence against partners / children. They are tying to be sure you are not a danger to the person you are petitioning or any child that may be involved.

[johnnyv 20]

The beneficiary knows about my past and fully supports the medical issues I have (she's quite helpful!). It's good to know they're looking for crimes I haven't committed, which is reassuring. Thank you for your help!

[Natalie y Richard 14]

I am in the medical field and if you know about the HIPPA you would know its ilegal for anyone to release your medical records without your consent. Relax you will be fine.

[NickD 203]

Don't even know if they did any background checks on me, but sure wanted plenty of evidence I had enough money to bring my two girls (mom and daughter) over here. Ha, and ended up taking a good share of it. That I-693 was a killer, two of them, not the fees, but not covered by my health insurance.

[del-2-5-2014 1,339]

I am in the medical field and if you know about the HIPPA you would know its ilegal for anyone to release your medical records without your consent. Relax you will be fine.

That doesn't apply to government agencies. I work with HIPAA too.

"(5) Public Interest and Benefit Activities. The Privacy Rule permits use and disclosure of protected health information, without an individual’s authorization or permission, for 12 national priority purposes.²⁸ These disclosures are permitted, although not required, by the Rule in recognition of the important uses made of health information outside of the health care context. Specific conditions or limitations apply to each public interest purpose, striking the balance between the individual privacy interest and the public interest need for this information.

Required by Law. Covered entities may use and disclose protected health information without individual authorization as required by law (including by statute, regulation, or court orders).^29"

http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/understanding/summary/

OP, IMHO, you have nothing to worry about from what you've said. The biggest thing and you said you've done it is to advice your beloved of as such.

I've read on here about petitioners that were actively in incarceration during the process.