Does FBI background check need to be notarized for an apostille?

Short answer: No. An FBI background check does not need to be notarized to receive an apostille. In fact, notarization and translations are not accepted by the U.S. Department of State for this document. All you need is the official FBI background check itself—either the original PDF issued electronically or the hard copy. Once you send that to us, we can obtain the federal apostille you need.

Why Notarization Is Not Required

Many clients assume that every U.S. document must first be notarized before it can be apostilled. That’s true for state-level private documents (like diplomas or affidavits). But an FBI background check is a federal document, issued directly by the FBI with its own official seal. Adding a notary stamp is not only unnecessary—it’s not valid for the Department of State apostille process.

The U.S. Department of State will not accept notarized copies of FBI background checks. Only the original document issued by the FBI qualifies.

What the Department of State Actually Accepts

To receive a federal apostille on your FBI report, the Department of State requires:

• The original FBI-issued background check (either the PDF or hard copy).
• The correct request form identifying your destination country.
• The government fee of $20 per document.

No notary, no translation, and no state-level authentication is required or accepted. The process is streamlined: FBI report → Department of State apostille → ready for use abroad.

Do I Need a Translation?

Another common misconception is that your FBI report must be translated into the destination country’s language before it can be apostilled. This is false. The U.S. Department of State only authenticates the original English-language document issued by the FBI. If a translation is required later, it must be arranged separately in the destination country or with a certified translator—but it is not part of the apostille process.

State vs. Federal: Why It Matters

The distinction between state and federal documents is crucial. State-issued documents (like birth or marriage certificates) often require notarization before a state Secretary of State can apostille them. But FBI reports are federal. They bypass state offices entirely and go straight to the U.S. Department of State. Trying to submit them at the state level—or adding a notary—will result in rejection.

Steps to Apostille an FBI Background Check

Here’s what the lawful process looks like in practice:

1. Obtain your FBI report — Download the official PDF or request a mailed hard copy from the FBI.
2. Confirm your destination country — Hague Convention countries require an apostille; non-members require embassy legalization.
3. Submit your FBI report for apostille — Send us the original PDF or paper version along with your order.
4. We process through the Department of State — Average expedited timeline: ~10 business days.
5. Receive your results — We send a secure digital scan when complete; the apostilled document is shipped securely to you.

Real-World Scenarios

Visa Applications

Many countries require an apostilled FBI background check as part of visa, work permit, or residency filings. A notarized copy will not be accepted by consulates. Only the Department of State apostille carries legal recognition.

International Employment

Employers abroad often request an apostilled FBI background check for compliance. Using a notarized copy risks rejection and costly delays in your job start date.

Adoptions & Family Matters

Adoption agencies and foreign courts routinely request FBI background checks with apostilles. Submitting notarized or translated versions instead of the original FBI report can derail proceedings.

Academic Programs

Students enrolling in foreign universities may be required to provide apostilled FBI background checks. Only the official FBI-issued version qualifies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to notarize my FBI background check before apostille?

No. The U.S. Department of State does not accept notarized FBI reports. Only the original FBI-issued document is valid.

What about translations?

Translations are not accepted by the Department of State. Apostilles are issued on the original English FBI report only.

Can a state office apostille my FBI background check?

No. State offices cannot apostille federal documents. FBI reports go only to the U.S. Department of State.

What format of FBI report do I need?

Either the original FBI PDF or the mailed hard copy is acceptable. Both qualify for apostille.

How fast can I get my FBI background check apostilled?

Mail-in averages 5–6 weeks. Our expedited process through the Department of State typically takes ~10 business days.

Related Guides & Tools

• DIY Federal Apostille Guide
• Same-Day Federal Apostille (Emergency Only)
• Federal Apostille Processing Time Estimator

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Requirements and timelines may change. Always confirm with the U.S. Department of State or consult our experts before proceeding.