What You Need to Know About Submitting FBI Background Checks for Apostille or Authentication
FBI background checks are commonly required for international purposes such as immigration, employment, work visas, and travel abroad.
If you need to have your FBI background check apostilled or authenticated, submitting the correct version of the document is essential. Using the wrong format can lead to delays or rejection.
Why You Should Not Scan a Hardcopy
If you receive your FBI background check as a hardcopy, do not simply scan it and submit the scanned PDF for apostille or authentication.
The FBI authenticates its fingerprint search results by placing an FBI watermark and the signature of a division official on the results.
A scanned copy may not preserve the original security features in a form that can be properly verified.
The key takeaway:
For electronic submission, use the original electronic PDF issued by the FBI or an FBI-approved Channeler, not a scanned copy of the hardcopy.
The Right Way to Submit an FBI Background Check
If you plan to have your FBI background check apostilled or authenticated electronically, keep the original electronic PDF you received from the FBI or an FBI-approved Channeler.
The original electronic document contains the authentication features needed for the next step of the process.
The U.S. Department of State confirms that FBI background checks issued by the U.S. Department of Justice may require an apostille when being used internationally.
Important Tip
When ordering your background check from the FBI or an FBI-approved Channeler, consider requesting both:
The original electronic PDF
A hardcopy
Having both gives you flexibility if you need a physical copy for another purpose while keeping the electronic version available for authentication or apostille processing.
How Timing Can Affect Your Apostille Process
Timing matters when you're preparing documents for international use.
The FBI states that electronic requests can be processed faster and that applicants who submit electronically receive their response electronically, with an option to receive a hardcopy by mail.
Keep these factors in mind:
Electronic delivery: Generally faster than waiting for a document by mail.
Hardcopy delivery: May require additional mailing time.
Apostille processing: Additional time may be required after the FBI document is properly authenticated.
International shipping: Delivery times vary depending on the destination, customs, and courier service.
Because processing requirements and timelines can change, check the current requirements of the agency or organization requesting your document before submitting it.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Before sending your FBI background check for apostille or authentication, make sure you:
✓ Keep the original electronic PDF
✓ Do not scan a hardcopy and use the scan as a replacement
✓ Confirm the document has the required FBI authentication features
✓ Check the requirements of the country where the document will be used
✓ Allow enough time for processing and international delivery
Let The Signature Pros Handle the Hard Part
The Signature Pros is located just 12 miles from the U.S. Department of State, making us conveniently positioned to facilitate your FBI background check apostille or authentication.
We help you:
Avoid costly errors and rejected documents
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Whether you're in the United States or abroad, our goal is to make the process simple, secure, and straightforward.
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