How to Get an FBI Background Check Apostille

When you apply for a work visa or start a business venture overseas, you might be asked for an apostille on your FBI background check as part of the paperwork requirements. Look for how to do it correctly? You’re in the right place!

An FBI background check apostille verifies your document for use in another country, and the process might be tricky to navigate if you don’t know the steps. This post will reveal all you should know, from getting the report to apostilling it, and more importantly, how to sidestep common pitfalls for a faster process.

What is an FBI Background Check, and When Do You Need to Apostille It?

An FBI background check shows your U.S. criminal record, commonly needed for work, residency, or visa applications. You can request yours directly from the FBI through their official website. The report entails a fingerprint check against the FBI’s database to verify whether you have conducted any criminal activities.

Essentially, you’ll need an apostille if you want to use this report abroad, particularly in a Hague Convention country. The criminal record apostille confirms that your criminal history or clean record is legitimate and legally recognized in the country to which you are applying. Your background check might be rejected without this proof.

How to Apostille an FBI Background Check

So, you need to authenticate your FBI records for use abroad? It might sound daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be confusing. From obtaining your report to receiving the background check apostille, we’ll walk you through every stage to secure your paperwork.

1. Request the FBI Background Check

The process begins with ordering an official FBI background check, formally called an Identity History Summary Check. The request can be sent to the FBI directly or one of the approved channelers. During this stage, you’re asked to provide the following:

• Personal information
• Fingerprints taken at an authorized agency (e.g., local police or post office)
• Signature on the application form
• Processing fee

Once the request is approved, you’ll receive an electronic copy for download. You can also select the mailing option to get a physical copy via postal service.

2. Prepare the Apostille Request for the U.S. Department of State

After you get your FBI background check, it’s time to arrange the documents for apostille submission. The apostille package should contain the completed DS-4194 form, the printed background check, a prepaid self-addressed envelope, and applicable payment. Ensure your papers are in the correct format and remain unaltered without folds or staples for approval.

3. Send Documents to the State Department

Now that your package is ready, send it to the State Department’s Office of Authentications for apostille processing. The State Department offers a regular mail-in service and a rush in-person option, open to the public during a limited first-come, first-served time window. The mailing address is as follows:

U.S. Department of State
Office of Authentications
CA/PPT/S/AUT
44132 Mercure Cir.
Sterling, VA 20166

Here’s a pro tip: use a priority mailing service with tracking for outgoing and return shipments to ensure the apostille arrives on time for your international plan.

4. Receive the Apostilled FBI Background Check

Upon approval, your apostilled criminal background check will be delivered using the selected return method. The apostille takes the form of a separate page attached to your report, and you should check for the following:

• All information matches your background check.
• The official State Department seal is visible.
• The apostille is appropriately affixed.

With this, your FBI background check is now globally valid!

FBI Background Check Apostille Processing Time

As of October 1, 2024, the Department of State has resumed its pre-COVID walk-in request, but with stricter rules:

• Maximum 15 documents daily per submitter (individual or service agency).
• Limited availability hours, Monday–Thursday, 7:30–9:00 am.
• 7–9 business days for hand-submission processing time.

The total FBI background check apostille processing time may be reduced to as early as 2–3 weeks for pickup. Otherwise, the mail-in option takes up to 6 weeks. Hence, account for the FBI background check request timeline and plan your international trip accordingly to avoid unexpected complications.

Common Mistakes in Apostilling an FBI Background Check

Minor errors can hinder your FBI background check apostille, causing weeks of delay or forcing you to start over. Being aware of common pitfalls enables you to prevent headaches and ensure a smooth journey overseas with properly authenticated documents. Here’s what you should watch out for:

• Submitting wrong forms: Incorrect forms lead to immediate rejection, so make sure you download the latest version of the DS-4194 from the State Department website. 
• Sending to the wrong office: All submissions must go through the Sterling office. Mailing your package to an outdated address will result in it being automatically returned.
• Missing key details in the cover letter: An incomplete cover letter, such as missing required personal details and return address, may slow down processing time.
• Lost or delayed documents: An unreliable mailing service or one without tracking options increases the risk of losing critical documents. 
• Missing payment: Failing to make appropriate payments, such as unsigned checks, will result in rejected submissions.

The bottom line is to double-check for errors before submitting your apostille package. A few minutes of review now saves you from costly setbacks tomorrow.

Benefits of Using EZ Apostille for FBI Apostille Services

Want to skip the stress of getting an apostille? Consider using FBI apostille services from EZ Apostille. We offer:

• Fast-track processing
• Expert paperwork handling
• Regular tracking
• All-in-One service
• Reduce mistakes and challenges

This way, you can concentrate on your plans abroad while leaving the paperwork to the experts. We ensure that your background check meets international requirements for acceptance in the country you’re traveling to.

Submit and Stay Stress Free

By following the right steps, securing an apostille for your FBI background check can be more straightforward than you might think. You can easily request an official report and submit it for an apostille to guarantee its acceptance internationally. Moreover, you can contact a reliable professional service like EZ Apostille for the fastest results. Start your application today!

FAQs

1. How long does it take to apostille an FBI background check?

Mail-in requests typically require 5 weeks or more for processing. Starting October 2024, walk-in submissions allow you to pick up the apostille in 7–9 business days, but availability is extremely limited.

2. Is an FBI background check apostille needed for international use?

Yes. For Hague Convention nations, an apostille is usually needed to validate your FBI background check. Lacking this certification risks rejection as foreign officials can’t assess the document’s authenticity.

3. Where do I get the apostille for my FBI background check?

You can get it from the Office of Authentications, which is responsible for issuing apostilles and authentication certificates.

4. Can I apostille my FBI report myself?

Absolutely! However, if this is your first time apostilling an FBI report, it’s highly advised to involve expert services that can handle the process smoothly from start to finish.

5. Can I apostille a digital FBI background check?

Of course. The Department of State accepts printed copies of digital background checks. Note that the copies must be clear, unaltered, and unmarked.

6. Do I need a new apostille for an older FBI background check?

Yes. Most countries require a fresh apostille for an FBI report issued within the last 6 months. Check the destination country’s requirements for the timeframe to ensure you meet them.