How thorough is a background investigation (BI)?

Question

i am applying for a job here in the US that requires a BI. since i am not originally from here, would they also do a BI in the country where i'm from?

just curious

Answer 1

background investigations usually are pretty thorough, unless the investigator is faced with a deadline. the average investigation lasts 1-2 months unless it is a large department and the investigator isn't that thorough.

chances are they will not go to the country of your birth, but they will attempt to contact people from where you use to live.

Answer 2

It is very thorough.  Although, the ability to acquire any history prior to your arrival in the United States is very difficult.  Generally, the investigator will have to rely on interviews with family and friends to gather any details concerning your pre-US history.

We have had several individuals come through our offices in Richardson, Tx for pre-employment psychological evaluations who were from foreign countries originally.  When the background investigation lacks information from prior to living in the US, the departments rely heavily on what we are able to provide them concerning those details.  

Answer 3

It depends on the agency you are applying with.  If it's a local or state department, it's unlikely they will follow back to your country of origin.  If it's a Federal position that requires some high security clearances, they will probably interview your neighbors at your home town where you lived as a kid, and the process could take up to 18 months or possibly longer if they are backlogged.