If you need to use your FBI background check outside the United States, it must be authenticated with a federal apostille.
This page explains exactly what a federal apostille is, how it differs from a state apostille, and why FBI background checks can only be apostilled at the federal level.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document so it can be legally recognized in another country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention.
An apostille:
- Confirms the authenticity of the issuing authority
- Verifies the signature and seal on the document
- Eliminates the need for embassy or consular legalization
Federal Apostille vs. State Apostille (Critical Difference)
Not all apostilles are the same.
The correct authority depends on who issued the document.
State Apostille
Issued by a state Secretary of State
Used for:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Diplomas
- Notarized documents
Federal Apostille
Issued by the U.S. Department of State
Used for documents issued by U.S. federal agencies, including:
- Certificates of Free Sale (federal)
- FBI background checks
- Federal court documents
- Naturalization records
Why FBI Background Checks Require a Federal Apostille
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is a federal agency.
Because of this:
- ❌ State apostilles are not valid
- ❌ Notarization does not make an FBI document apostillable
- ✔ A federal apostille is mandatory
This is one of the most common and costly mistakes applicants make when using non-specialized apostille providers.
Who Issues a Federal Apostille?
Federal apostilles are issued only by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.
No other authority in the United States can legally issue a federal apostille.
This includes:
- Notaries
- State Secretaries of State
- County offices
- Private companies
Private companies (like ours) facilitate the process but do not issue apostilles.
Each document type has specific submission rules, which is why specialization matters.
Federal Apostille Processing Time
The U.S. Department of State enforces a minimum processing time for federal apostilles.
Typical Timeline
- Submission accepted
- Processing time: minimum 10 working days
- Apostille physically attached to the document
- Returned to the requester or facilitator
⚠️ Federal apostilles cannot be expedited beyond this limit, regardless of provider.
Do All Countries Accept Apostilles?
Only countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention accept apostilles.
If your destination country is:
- ✔ A Hague member → Federal apostille is sufficient
- ❌ Not a Hague member → Embassy or consular legalization may be required
We can advise on the correct process before you proceed.
Common Federal Apostille Mistakes
We regularly assist clients who were delayed because of:
- Submitting FBI documents for state apostilles
- Using uncertified third-party PDFs
- Mailing documents unnecessarily
- Using providers unfamiliar with federal requirements
A federal apostille must be done correctly the first time to avoid rejection abroad.
Our flat-rate federal apostille service for FBI background checks is $150, with no hidden fees.
Ready to Apostille Your FBI Background Check?
If you already have your FBI background check and need a federal apostille, you can get started immediately.