Successful Background Investigation Preparation
A background investigation is a critical step in the hiring process for federal law enforcement positions, including the U.S. Border Patrol. The investigator assigned to your case does not make hiring decisions—their role is to collect and verify information, which is then reviewed by an adjudicator within the Internal Affairs Office. Most background investigators work as contract employees for the federal government and handle multiple cases at once. To help ensure a smooth and efficient process, applicants should be well-prepared and organized before their initial interview. Your initial interview with the investigator will typically last at least two hours, depending on the complexity of your background. It is not necessary to dress formally; business casual or comfortable attire is sufficient.
Required Documents
This information will help streamline your background investigation process and minimize delays. Preparing these documents in advance ensures that your investigator has everything they need to complete your file efficiently.
Required Documents
- Identification: Driver’s license and original Social Security card.
- Proof of Citizenship: A government-issued raised-seal birth certificate (not a hospital-issued certificate). If born abroad, bring consular birth records. If naturalized, bring your naturalization certificate.
- Legal Name Changes: If you have legally changed your name or used aliases, bring official documentation.
- Employment History: For each job listed on your SF-86 (or equivalent form) in the past ten years, provide two references (preferably a supervisor and a co-worker) with current contact information.
- Residency History: For each residence in the past ten years, provide two neighbors or close contacts who can verify your residency and character. Let them know they may be contacted.
- Educational History: For all high schools, colleges, or training institutions attended, provide names and contact information for at least two people (professors, classmates, or administrators).
- Marital Status: If married or divorced, bring legal documents such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree.
- Foreign Relatives: If you have foreign-born relatives or in-laws, provide copies of their documentation allowing them to be in the U.S. (naturalization certificates, green cards) along with their names, addresses, occupations, and frequency of contact.
- Travel History: List all international travel, including dates, destinations, purpose of travel, companions, and how the trip was financed.
- Unemployment History: If you were unemployed, provide documentation from the unemployment office (if applicable) and a reference who can verify your unemployment status.
- Self-Employment History: If self-employed, bring your business license, tax documents, and a reference (such as an accountant or business partner) who can verify your employment.
- Selective Service Registration: Males must provide proof of Selective Service registration, which can be obtained at www.SSS.gov.
- Foreign Contacts: Provide the names and contact information of any foreign persons or organizations with whom you have regular contact.
- Drug Use History: If applicable, provide a detailed list of any past drug use, including the type of drug, how it was obtained, frequency of use, and reasons for discontinuation.
- Previous Investigations: If you have ever been investigated by the U.S. government, bring documentation and details.
- Credit History: Your credit should be in good standing. If there are issues, be prepared to explain the cause and your plan to resolve them. You can obtain a free copy of your credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com.
This information will help streamline your background investigation process and minimize delays. Preparing these documents in advance ensures that your investigator has everything they need to complete your file efficiently.
