If you need to use your FBI background check for international purposes, you may be required to have it apostilled. An apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. This process is crucial for visa applications, work permits, dual citizenship, and international business dealings. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get your FBI background check apostilled efficiently.
Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check
Before you can get your document apostilled, you must first request an official FBI background check. You can obtain this through:
Online Request
The FBI’s approved channelers allow applicants to submit their fingerprints electronically, which expedites the process.
Mail Request
You can directly send a request to the FBI by completing the appropriate application form, submitting fingerprint cards, and paying the required fee.
Once you receive your FBI background check, ensure it is issued within the past six months, as many institutions require recent documents.
Step 2: Confirm Apostille Eligibility
Not all documents are eligible for an apostille. The FBI background check is a federal document and must be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. It cannot be apostilled at the state level.
Step 3: Submit to the U.S. Department of State
To get your FBI background check apostilled, you need to:
Complete the Authentication Request Form (DS-4194)
This is the official form required by the U.S. Department of State.
Pay the Processing Fee
The current fee for each apostille is $20, payable by check or money order.
Mail Your Documents
Send your FBI background check, DS-4194 form, and payment to the Office of Authentications at:
U.S. Department of State Office of Authentications 600 19th Street NW Washington, DC 20006
Processing times vary but typically range from 4 to 8 weeks. Expedited processing may be available through third-party services.
Step 4: Consider a Professional Apostille Service
If you need your document apostilled quickly, using a professional service that specializes in California apostille services Los Angeles can save time and ensure accuracy. These services handle submission, follow-ups, and fast-tracked processing.
Step 5: Receive Your Apostilled Document
Once processed, the U.S. Department of State will return your apostilled FBI background check to the address provided. Verify the apostille to ensure all details are correct before submitting it to the requesting authority.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a photocopy instead of an original FBI background check – Only official documents are eligible.
- Sending the request to a state-level apostille office – FBI background checks are federal documents and must be processed at the federal level.
- Using outdated documents – Many agencies require background checks issued within the last six months.
Why Use a Professional Apostille Service?
Navigating government bureaucracy can be time-consuming and frustrating. A professional service specializing in California apostille services Los Angeles ensures that your request is handled correctly and processed faster, reducing delays and potential rejections.
Conclusion
Getting an FBI background check apostilled is a necessary step for international legal matters. By following this guide, you can complete the process efficiently. Whether submitting the request yourself or using California apostille services Los Angeles, ensuring accuracy and timeliness is crucial to meeting your deadlines. If you’re in a rush, a professional apostille service can simplify the process and guarantee a hassle-free experience.
