FBI Background Check with Apostille

An FBI Background Check, also known as an Identity History Summary Check or FBI Rap Sheet,
provides a copy of your criminal history record (if one exists) maintained by the FBI. You can
obtain an FBI Background Check by submitting your fingerprints and application directly to the
FBI, through an authorized FBI Channeler, or by using participating USPS fingerprinting locations.
Many applicants choose a professional fingerprinting service to ensure their fingerprints meet
FBI quality standards and to help avoid delays.

An FBI Background Check is commonly required for:

• Immigration and visa applications
• Dual citizenship applications
• Employment and professional licensing
• Study Abroad
• Adoption and foster care
• Volunteer positions
• International travel or residency requirements
• Personal record review
• Security clearances (when requested by an employer or government agency)

Requirements vary depending on the requesting organization or country.

There are several ways to request an FBI Background Check:

By Mail

You can submit your fingerprint card, completed application, and payment directly to the FBI by
mail. Processing typically takes longer than electronic submissions.

Through USPS

The FBI partners with select USPS locations that offer electronic fingerprint collection.
Applicants can schedule an appointment, have their fingerprints captured electronically, and
submit their request through the FBI’s system.

Through an FBI-Approved Channeler

An FBI-approved Channeler is a private company authorized by the FBI to collect and submit
your fingerprints electronically. This is often the fastest option for eligible U.S. applicants and
generally provides quicker processing than mailing fingerprints.

To obtain an FBI Background Check, you will typically need:

• A valid government-issued photo ID
• A completed FBI application
• Fingerprints (captured electronically or on an FD-258 fingerprint card)
• Payment of the applicable processing fee
• An email address if you wish to receive your results electronically

Additional documentation may be required depending on how you submit your request.

Processing times vary based on the submission method.

Electronic submissions through FBI Approved Channeler: Results are often available within a few
hours from the time FBI receives acceptable fingerprints.
Mailed fingerprint cards: Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks or longer, depending on FBI
processing volume and mailing time.

Poor-quality fingerprints may result in processing delays or require resubmission.

An FBI Background Check may be required for individuals who are:

• Applying for immigration benefits or visas
• Seeking employment that requires a national criminal history check
• Applying for professional licenses
• Adopting a child or becoming a foster parent
• Applying for dual citizenship
• Planning to live, work, or study abroad
• Requesting a copy of their own FBI criminal history record for personal review

Yes. If you need to use your FBI Background Check in a foreign country that is a member of the
Hague Apostille Convention, you may also need to obtain an Apostille to authenticate the document for
international use.

After receiving your FBI Background Check, it can be submitted to the U.S. Department of State for an
Apostille. This process certifies the authenticity of the FBI official’s signature and allows the document to
be recognized in participating countries.

Some Services providers live Beverly Hills Apostille offer FBI Background Check and Apostille services
together, helping simplify the process by obtaining the FBI report and completing the Apostille on your
behalf. If your destination country is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, you may need a
certificate of authentication instead of an Apostille. Always confirm the document requirements with
the foreign authority requesting your background check.