1. Introduction
If you’re planning to live, work, or study abroad, there’s a high chance you’ll need to provide an FBI background check with an apostille attached. This critical step validates your document so it can be accepted in countries that follow international documentation standards.
But what does the process look like? How long does it take? Who handles it?
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to get an apostille for an FBI background check and how PacSigning makes the process easier, faster, and error-free.
2. What Is an Apostille and Why It Matters
An apostille is a certificate issued by the U.S. Department of State that authenticates a document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961.
It verifies the authenticity of your FBI background check and ensures that foreign governments and institutions will recognize it as a valid federal record.
Without an apostille, your FBI background report may be rejected—causing serious delays in your immigration, work, or education plans.
3. Why FBI Reports Require Apostille
FBI background checks are federal documents, meaning they must go through the U.S. Department of State to receive a valid apostille. You’ll need this apostille if:
- You are applying for a work visa
- You’re immigrating to a Hague-member country
- You plan to teach abroad
- You are involved in international adoption
- You are applying for dual citizenship
Note: If you’re submitting your FBI report to a non-Hague country, you may need authentication and embassy legalization instead.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an FBI Apostille
Here’s how to obtain an apostille for your FBI background check:
✅ Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check
There are three ways to do this:
- Through the FBI’s eDO system (fast and online)
- Using a certified channeler
- With Live Scan fingerprinting via PacSigning
✅ Step 2: Verify the Report Format
Your report must be the official PDF issued by the FBI (not a scanned copy). It should be no older than 90 days to meet most international requirements.
✅ Step 3: Complete Form DS-4194
This is the Request for Authentication Services form required by the Department of State.
✅ Step 4: Submit to the U.S. Department of State
Mail your documents with the completed DS-4194 form to the Office of Authentications. Processing times can vary depending on volume.
✅ OR skip these steps entirely by letting PacSigning handle the submission and processing for you.
5. Documents You’ll Need
- Your official FBI background check PDF
- A completed Form DS-4194
- Payment for Department of State fees
- A self-addressed return envelope (if applying on your own)
Tip: PacSigning ensures that all required paperwork is filled out correctly to avoid rejections or delays.
6. Apostille Processing Time & Costs
Processing Time:
- Standard: 8–12 business days through the Department of State
- Expedited: As fast as 3–6 business days through PacSigning
Cost:
- Department of State fee: ~$20
- Additional charges for mailing, courier, or errors
- PacSigning offers affordable all-in-one pricing, with no hidden fees
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a state background check instead of an FBI report
- Using an unofficial or expired background check
- Forgetting to include the DS-4194 form
- Sending documents to the wrong office (e.g., state secretary instead of federal)
Letting professionals like PacSigning handle the process eliminates these headaches.
8. Why Choose PacSigning
Getting an FBI apostille shouldn’t be stressful. That’s why PacSigning offers:
✅ Live Scan fingerprinting to request your FBI report
✅ Federal apostille services with fast turnaround
✅ Nationwide coverage – remote and mail-in options available
✅ Friendly experts who review every document
✅ Secure and trackable processing
From fingerprints to final delivery, we handle everything in-house—saving you time, effort, and uncertainty.
9. FAQs
Q: Can I apostille a digital FBI report?
A: Yes, if it’s the official PDF from the FBI eDO portal.
Q: How recent should my FBI report be?
A: Most destinations require a report issued within the last 90 days.
Q: Do I have to visit the Department of State?
A: No. PacSigning submits all documents on your behalf.
Q: What if my destination isn’t a Hague member?
A: We also provide authentication and consular legalization for non-Hague countries.
Q: Can I get help if I live outside Oregon?
A: Absolutely. We support customers nationwide with remote services.
10. Final Thoughts
When it comes to international requirements, even small paperwork mistakes can lead to big problems. Getting an apostille for your FBI background check is essential—and doing it right is just as important.
Let PacSigning simplify the process for you. From fingerprinting to document authentication, we deliver fast, compliant, and professional apostille services you can count on.
Start now — Request your apostille service today