Apostille Certification for FBI Background Checks

What is an FBI Background Check?

An FBI background check is an official criminal history report issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It includes information based on your fingerprints, such as arrests, charges, and outcomes at the federal level. This document is often required when applying for:

• Employment overseas

• Student visas or foreign exchange programs

• Immigration or residency in another country

• Adoption processes involving foreign jurisdictions

It’s important to note that this report is only issued directly by the FBI—not by state or local law enforcement agencies.

Why Do FBI Background Checks Need an Apostille?

When you are asked to present an FBI background check abroad, foreign governments need to verify that the document is authentic. Countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention require an apostille to confirm the legitimacy of U.S.-issued documents.

For example:

• A teacher moving to Spain may need an FBI apostille background check to prove they meet employment requirements.

• A student applying to study in Italy may be required to submit the document with an apostille as part of the visa process.

Without an apostille, the FBI background check is not considered valid outside the United States.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apostille Certification

Step 1: Request Your FBI Background Check

• Submit a request through the FBI’s Identity History Summary Check system.

• You’ll need to provide fingerprints, identification, and a processing fee.

• Once completed, the FBI issues the report electronically (PDF) or by mail.

Step 2: Confirm Document Authenticity

• Only FBI-issued background checks are eligible for apostille certification.

• Local or state background checks cannot be apostilled at the federal level.

Step 3: Send to the U.S. Department of State

• Mail the FBI-issued background check to the U.S. Department of State – Office of Authentications in Washington, D.C.

• Include:

  • A completed Form DS-4194 (Request for Authentication Services)

  • The required fee (per document)

  • A prepaid return envelope

Step 4: Receive the Apostille

• The Department of State will review the document and attach the official apostille certificate.

• Processing times vary, so it’s best to plan ahead if you have deadlines for travel, work, or study.

How Alisha’s Mobile Notary Service Can Help

Navigating the apostille process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with strict timelines. At Alisha’s Mobile Notary Service, located in the Hudson Valley, NY, we:

• Provide notary services for related supporting documents

• Offer apostille facilitation services to help prepare and submit paperwork to the U.S. Department of State

• Ensure your FBI background check is correctly handled from start to finish

Whether you are in Orange County, Dutchess County, Rockland County, or anywhere in the Hudson Valley, we are here to make the process smoother and less stressful.