FBI Background Check + Apostille — Complete Guide for Expats & International Use
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If you are planning to live, work, or retire abroad, one of the most common requirements is an FBI Background Check with an Apostille. Many countries — including Spain, Italy, Mexico, and others — require this document to prove you have no criminal record in the United States.
In this guide, I'll walk you through the entire process — from requesting your FBI background check to getting the apostille and certified translation you need.
What Is an FBI Background Check Apostille?
An FBI Background Check (also called an Identity History Summary) is an official document issued by the FBI that shows your criminal history — or confirms you have none. An apostille is a certification that makes the document legally valid in countries that are members of the Hague Convention.
Together, the FBI Background Check + Apostille package is required for:
- Visa and residency applications abroad
- Work permits in foreign countries
- Adoption processes
- Teaching positions overseas
- Retirement visa applications (Spain, Italy, Mexico, Portugal)
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your FBI Background Check Apostille
Step 1 — Request Your FBI Background Check
You can request your FBI Identity History Summary online at idenix.fbi.gov or by mail. The online process takes approximately 3–5 business days. The mail process takes 4–8 weeks.
Step 2 — Get the Apostille
Once you have your FBI background check, you need to get an apostille from the U.S. Department of State — not your state's Secretary of State. This is because the FBI is a federal agency, so only the federal government can apostille its documents.
- Submit your FBI document to the U.S. Department of State Office of Authentications
- Standard processing: 6–8 weeks
- Expedited processing: available through authorized third-party agencies
Step 3 — Get a Certified Translation
Many countries require that your FBI Background Check be translated into the local language by a certified translator. For example, Spain and Italy require a Spanish or Italian translation that is both certified and notarized.
📄 Need a Certified Translation for Your FBI Background Check?
Idiomatic USA provides USCIS-accepted certified and notarized translations — fast, accurate, and accepted internationally.
Order Certified Translation →Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
| Step | Standard | Expedited |
|---|---|---|
| FBI Background Check | 3–5 days (online) | Same day (online) |
| Apostille (Dept. of State) | 6–8 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| Certified Translation | 3–5 days | 24–48 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my state background check instead of the FBI check?
No. Most foreign governments require the federal FBI background check, not a state-level check. Always verify with the consulate of the destination country.
How long is the FBI background check apostille valid?
Most countries accept it if issued within the last 3–6 months. Check with the specific consulate or institution requiring the document.
Do I need a certified translation for every country?
Not always — English-speaking countries generally do not require translation. However, Spain, Italy, France, Mexico, and most Latin American and European countries do require a certified translation.
Ready to Get Your Certified Translation?
Fast, USCIS-accepted, certified and notarized translations for your FBI background check.
Order Now — Idiomatic USA →*Affiliate link — I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. / Enlace de afiliado — puedo ganar una comisión sin costo adicional para ti.
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