An FBI Apostille is a certification issued by the U.S. Department of State that authenticates an FBI background check for use in foreign countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. This certification ensures that the document is recognized internationally for various purposes, such as employment, immigration, or legal proceedings.

To obtain an FBI background check, you can apply directly through the FBI or use an FBI-approved Channeler. Channelers expedite the process and often provide you with an electronic (PDF) copy of the background check, which can then be submitted for an apostille.

The processing time for an FBI Apostille typically ranges from 4 weeks for standard services. If you opt for expedited service, it can be completed in as little as 10 business days, depending on the provider and the U.S. Department of State’s processing speed.

Yes, if you received a digital copy (PDF) of your FBI background check from the FBI or an FBI Channeler, you can submit it to an apostille service provider. The provider will print a physical copy of the document and process it for the apostille.

Along with the FBI background check, other commonly apostilled documents include:

• Birth Certificates
• Marriage Certificates
• Diplomas & Transcripts
• Power of Attorney

These documents must first go through their respective state’s authentication process before receiving an apostille.

Yes, there are fees for both the FBI background check and the apostille service. The cost for apostille services typically ranges from $55 to $95 per document, depending on whether you choose standard or expedited service. Additional fees may apply for shipping and handling.

Yes, many apostille service providers offer expedited processing, which can reduce the apostille processing time to around 10 business days. However, be aware that the U.S. Department of State may have restrictions on expedited services, particularly during certain periods.

If your FBI background check is password protected, simply provide the password in the special instructions section of the apostille order form. This will allow the apostille service provider to access and print the document for authentication.

Most countries require the FBI background check to be no older than 6 months at the time of apostille. If it exceeds this timeframe, you may need to request a new background check before proceeding with the apostille process.

Countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention require an apostille for the legal use of U.S. documents, including FBI background checks. This includes most European, South American, and certain Asian countries. For countries that are not part of the Hague Convention, embassy legalization may be required instead of an apostille.