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How to Apostille an FBI Background Check: Step-by-Step Process & Timeline

A complete guide covering every step — from obtaining your FBI Identity History Summary to submitting it for federal apostille, including current processing times and common pitfalls to avoid.

Updated July 2026 8 min read

An FBI background check apostille is required for many international purposes—immigration, employment, residency, and more. This guide walks you through the entire process.

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While this guide covers the DIY process, many applicants choose to use a professional expediting service to avoid the standard 3-6 week wait. If you'd rather skip the paperwork and get your apostille in 7-10 business days, see our main service page.

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Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check

Before you can apostille your FBI background check, you need to obtain one. There are two ways:

  • Electronic FBI Identity History Summary - Apply online through the FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) portal. This is the fastest method.
  • Paper Fingerprint Card - Submit FD-258 fingerprint cards by mail. This takes longer but works if you can't submit digitally.

Step 2: Request the Background Check

If using the electronic method:

  1. Go to edo.cjis.gov
  2. Create an account
  3. Submit your request and payment ($18)
  4. Complete the electronic fingerprinting
  5. Receive your Identity History Summary via email (usually within 24-48 hours)

Step 3: Apostille Process

Once you have your FBI background check, you need federal authentication (apostille) from the U.S. Department of State. This is NOT the same as a state apostille—FBI documents require federal-level certification.

Important

FBI background checks require federal apostille from the U.S. Department of State, not a state-level apostille. Many countries specifically require federal-level authentication.

FBI Seal vs. Watermark Requirement

Your FBI background check must have the official embossed FBI seal for the U.S. Department of State to accept it for apostille. Digital watermarks or printed seals alone are NOT sufficient. When requesting your Identity History Summary from the FBI, select the option that includes the official embossed seal. Contact the FBI or your channeler if you need a properly sealed copy before submitting for apostille.

Step 4: Destination Country Requirements

Some countries require additional steps beyond the apostille:

  • Translation - Some countries require an official translation
  • Additional Authentication - Countries not part of the Hague Convention may require embassy legalization
  • Specific Forms - Some countries have their own required forms

Processing Times

7-10 Business Days
Expedited Service
3-6 Weeks
Standard Processing
6-8 Weeks
DIY Standard Mail

Ready to Get Your FBI Apostille Without the Wait?

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Related Resources

Expedited FBI Background Check Apostille Service

7-10 business day guaranteed federal apostille — skip the 3-6 week standard wait

What Documents Need Apostille?

Common documents that require apostille certification

Hague Convention Guide

Understanding which countries accept apostilles

Certified Apostille Translation

Sworn and certified translation services for apostilled documents