How to Obtain an FBI Background Check and Apostille for Permanent Residency Abroad
A Step-by-Step Guide to Acquiring the Required Documents for a Smooth Permanent Residency Application Process


Acquiring an FBI background check and getting it apostilled by the state department can be a complex process, but it is an essential step if you are looking to acquire permanent residency abroad. In this article, we will guide you through the steps involved in obtaining an FBI background check and getting it apostilled by the state department.
Why You Need an FBI Background Check and Apostille
Obtaining permanent residency abroad requires submitting various documents and fulfilling certain requirements. One such requirement is obtaining an FBI background check, which is a criminal history record check conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This check is required by many countries to ensure that the individual seeking permanent residency does not have a criminal record. It is essential to have a clean record to be considered for permanent residency in most countries.
An apostille is a certificate issued by the state department that verifies the authenticity of the FBI background check. The apostille is required because many countries require official documents to be authenticated before they can be recognized as valid.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining an FBI Background Check
Step 1: Fill out the application form
To obtain an FBI background check, you will need to fill out an application form. The form is available on the FBI's website and can be filled out online or downloaded and printed.
Step 2: Get fingerprinted
Once you have filled out the application form, you will need to get fingerprinted. You can get fingerprinted at a local police station or at an FBI-approved channeler. Channelers are private companies that have been authorized by the FBI to collect fingerprints and submit them to the FBI for processing.
Step 3: Submit the application form and fingerprint card
Once you have been fingerprinted, you will need to submit the application form and fingerprint card to the FBI. You can do this by mail or through an FBI-approved channeler.
Step 4: Receive the FBI background check
The FBI background check will be mailed to you once it has been processed. The processing time can vary, but it usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apostilling the FBI Background Check
Step 1: Get the FBI background check notarized
Before you can apostille the FBI background check, you will need to get it notarized. This means that you will need to take the original FBI background check to a notary public and have them verify that it is a true and accurate representation of your criminal record.
Step 2: Submit the notarized FBI background check to the state department
Once the FBI background check has been notarized, you will need to submit it to the state department for apostille. You can do this by mail or in person at a state department office.
Step 3: Pay the fee
There is a fee for apostilling documents, and the fee varies by state. You will need to pay the fee when you submit the notarized FBI background check to the state department.
Step 4: Receive the apostilled FBI background check
Once the state department has processed your request, they will mail the apostilled FBI background check to you. The processing time can vary, but it usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
Conclusion
Acquiring permanent residency abroad can be a complicated process, but obtaining an FBI background check and getting it apostilled by the state department is a crucial step in the process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you have all the necessary documents to apply for permanent residency abroad. Remember that each country has its own requirements for obtaining permanent residency, so be sure to check the specific requirements for the country you are interested in.
FBI Background Check, Finger Printing & Apostille Service Links
You can request your FBI background check online and get your finger prints done at select U.S. post offices. You must submit your FBI background check and have paid electronically prior to visiting the post office for finger printing. You will be charged for fingerprinting and at some post offices you may need to schedule an appointment.
File FBI background Online Link
U.S. Post office search with finger printing services
FBI Apostille Services - You need to get your FBI background check (Identity History Summons) apostilled by the state department. I highly recommend using a service and not doing it yourself because it can take a week or so to get results with a professional service and months to get apostille on your own. Apostille service’s costs around $150.