Apostille Certification for FBI Background Checks

Planning to live, work, study, or adopt abroad? You may need an FBI Identity History Summary, commonly called an FBI background check, with an apostille for use in your destination country.

​

An apostille (pronounced “ah-po-steel”) is an official certificate that authenticates a document’s origin, including its signature and official seal. It allows the document to be recognized in countries where the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention applies. An apostille does not verify the accuracy of the document’s contents.

​

Why You May Need an FBI Apostille

Foreign authorities may request an apostilled FBI background check for:

• Residency or visa applications

• Employment abroad

• International study programs

• International adoption

• Other immigration or administrative requirements

Apostilles for FBI background checks are issued by the U.S. Department of State. Countries outside the Apostille Convention may require a different authentication and legalization process.

​

Confirm Your Requirements Before Scheduling

Before scheduling your fingerprinting appointment with Plancher Security, contact the receiving organization, embassy, or consulate to confirm whether an apostille is required. Ask about document age limits, translations, and any additional certification requirements.

​

View the official Hague Apostille Convention country list to check your destination country’s participation.

Contact Plancher Security to discuss fingerprinting for your FBI background check and apostille service needs.