If you are planning to work, study, or relocate abroad, getting an FBI background check apostille in Washington DC is one of the most important steps you will need to complete. Before your FBI report is accepted internationally, it must be authenticated with an apostille - a certification that verifies your document as legitimate and valid for foreign use.

This detailed guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting an FBI background check apostille in Washington, DC - from what an apostille is and why it’s required, to step-by-step instructions on applying through the U.S. Department of State. You’ll also learn how Globeia’s FBI apostille services can help you complete the process faster, accurately, and hassle-free, whether you’re in the U.S. or overseas.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get your FBI apostilled in Washington, DC - the right way, the first time.

What Is an FBI Background Check Apostille?

An FBI Background Check Apostille is an official certification that verifies your FBI background report as authentic and legally valid for international use. When you plan to work, study, immigrate, or start a business abroad, most foreign governments require this extra layer of verification to ensure that your criminal history record is legitimate and issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - a U.S. federal authority.

The apostille for FBI background checks is issued exclusively by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, DC under the Hague Apostille Convention, an international treaty that simplifies the legalization of public documents between member countries. Once attached, the apostille certifies the signature, seal, and authority of the FBI official who issued the background check.

In simpler terms, this means your FBI report becomes globally recognized, making it valid for legal, educational, immigration, or employment purposes in any of the 125+ Hague Convention member countries.

Without this certification, even a genuine FBI report may be rejected by foreign embassies, employers, or universities. That’s why obtaining an apostille is a mandatory step for U.S. citizens and foreign nationals who plan to present their FBI background check outside the United States.

An FBI apostille not only confirms the authenticity of your record, but also speeds up approval processes abroad, as it eliminates the need for further embassy legalization.

Reasons to Get an FBI Background Check Apostille

Here are some of the main situations where you need to apostille an FBI background check:

1. Adoption

If you are adopting a child from another country, the foreign adoption agency will require an FBI background check apostille to confirm that you have no criminal record.

2. Work Visa

When applying for a job overseas, especially in education, healthcare, or government roles, employers and immigration offices require your FBI background check to be apostilled.

3. Business Registration

If you're opening a company or expanding your business abroad, local authorities may request an apostilled FBI background check as part of the business licensing process.

4. Dual Citizenship

If you're applying for a second passport or dual nationality, many countries ask for an apostilled FBI background check to confirm your background is clean.

5. Higher Education

Universities and colleges in other countries may require an apostilled background check when you're enrolling in degree programs, especially if you're applying for scholarships or student visas.

Who Issues the Apostille for FBI Background Checks in Washington DC?

The US Department of State in Washington DC, is the only authority that can issue an apostille for FBI background checks. You cannot obtain an FBI apostille from your Secretary of State office, even if you live in California, Texas, New York, or any other state, because the FBI is a federal agency, and only a federal-level office can authenticate documents issued by federal authorities.

The apostille is handled specifically by the Office of Authentications, which is based in Washington, DC. Their Virginia office processes apostille requests submitted by mail.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Get an FBI Background Check Apostille in Washington DC

Obtaining an FBI background check apostilled in Washington, DC, can initially feel overwhelming, but once you understand the correct steps, the process becomes much easier and less stressful. Let's break it down.

Step 1: Request Your FBI Background Check

An FBI background check is a crucial document if you plan to live, work, study, or get married abroad. However, before applying for an apostille, it's advisable to check with the destination country for any additional requirements, such as translations, notarization, or supporting documents.

To obtain your background check from the FBI, you must submit a request online, by mail, or through an FBI-approved channeler or a third-party service provider, such as Globeia.

If you're outside the US, you can apply directly through Globeia's online portal. Globeia, an authorized service, will help you complete the FBI background check quickly and efficiently.

Important: Do not notarize your FBI background check before submitting for a federal apostille. The Department of State authenticates the FBI's own signature directly on the original document. Notarizing it first will invalidate the submission. A notarized copy is only needed if you are applying for a state-level apostille.

Step 2: Complete Form DS-4194

After you receive your FBI background check, the next step is to fill out Form DS-4194. This form is used to request an apostille from the US Department of State.

Important: Be sure to type or write using black ink only. If you make a mistake, don't try to fix it; start over with a new form. Corrections are not allowed.

When filling out the form, you'll need to include:

Your full name and contact information (email, phone number, and mailing address)
The country where you'll use the document
The document type – choose a Federal document
The type of authentication – choose an apostille

In all sections, ensure that you enter the details correctly. If you're doing this on behalf of a company, add the business name, email, and phone number.

Step 3: Choose How You Want to Submit the FBI Apostille Request

There are four ways to submit your apostille request to the US Department of State:

Option 1: Apply by Mail

This option is best if your travel date is more than 10 weeks away - allowing 6 to 8 weeks for processing plus mailing time in both directions. It's convenient and ideal for applicants who are not located in Washington, DC. The mailed FBI apostille requests are processed in the US Department of State's office in Virginia.

To apply by mail, you'll need to include the following in your package:

A completed Form DS-4194
Your original FBI background check
A check or money order made payable to the US Department of State
A self-addressed, prepaid return envelope

Mail these to:

Office of Authentications

US Department of State

44132 Mercure Circle

P.O. Box 1206

Sterling, VA 20166-1206

Option 2: Drop-Off or In-Person

If your travel is coming up within a month or less, dropping off your documents in person is a faster and more reliable alternative. Please bring your completed form, the original FBI background check, and the applicable fee, which can be paid by credit/debit card or in exact cash only.

Include a prepaid return envelope if you want your documents mailed back to you after processing. You can submit your apostille request between Monday to Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. at :

600 19th Street NW

Washington, DC 20006

Walk-in availability is limited in 2026. Verify current appointment requirements at travel.state.gov before visiting.

Option 3: Emergency Appointment

This option is available for urgent international travel within 14 days or in life-or-death emergencies involving an immediate move abroad. You need to request an appointment by mailing the proof of travel and documentation related to the emergency or life-or-death situation. If approved, the apostille can often be issued on the same day as your appointment.

However, if your request is missing documentation or doesn't qualify, the appointment may be canceled or denied. Many applicants choose to use professional apostille services for urgent cases as these services help gather the correct documents, submit everything on time, and reduce the risk of rejection.

Option 4: Apostille Service: Fastest Way

If you're not comfortable handling the apostille process yourself, third-party apostille services like Globeia can manage everything on your behalf. Using Globeia’s FBI apostille services can save you time and money.

Globeia has a dedicated office in Washington, DC, and works directly with the US Department of State. Whether you need an apostille urgently or for regular processing, they ensure everything is done correctly and efficiently.

To apply with Globeia, simply complete the application on their portal in just a few easy steps. Upload a scanned copy of your FBI background check, complete the payment, and Globeia will process your document. They will keep you updated on the status of your application through the portal.

How Much Does an FBI Apostille Cost in Washington, DC?

The cost of obtaining an FBI apostille in Washington, DC, varies depending on your application method and any additional services needed. The US Department of State currently charges $20 per document for an FBI background check apostille in Washington DC. This covers the apostille only. If you require translation, notarization, or expedited processing, additional fees will apply.

Using an FBI channeler or a third-party apostille service may also incur additional charges for convenience, shipping, or rush options. For the most accurate pricing, it's best to contact these services directly or visit the Department of State's official website.

How Long Does It Take to Get an FBI Apostille in Washington, DC?

The FBI background check apostille processing time varies based on how you submit your documents. Mail submissions to the Sterling, Virginia office currently take 6 to 8 weeks in 2026, not including mailing time in either direction. Plan for a total of 8 to 10 weeks if mailing from outside the US.

If you choose to drop off your documents in person, the turnaround is usually faster, about seven business days. For urgent cases, emergency appointments can provide same-day issuance of an apostille. Third-party services often help speed up the process by handling submissions and appointments on your behalf.

Do States Provide Apostilles for FBI background checks?

FBI background checks are apostilled only through the U.S. Department of State, and most state offices are not authorized to apostille federal documents. However, in rare cases, a state can issue an apostille if it’s for a notarized true copy of the FBI background check.

A state apostille is issued on a notarized copy of the FBI report.
A federal apostille is issued directly on the original FBI report.

Whether a state apostille will be accepted or not depends on your destination country and the authority requiring the document. If they allow it, a state apostille can be a valid option.

The process of getting a state-level apostille can be more complicated than a federal one. That’s why using a third-party service like Globeia can help. They’ll handle the entire process on your behalf, including notarizing your FBI background check and submitting it for apostille to relevant state agencies.

What Does a State Apostille for an FBI Background Check Look Like?

A state apostille for an FBI background check is a special certificate used to prove that a notary’s signature on a document is real. It is usually attached to a notarized copy of the background check, not the original. The apostille comes from a government office, like the Secretary of State of DC, Texas, California, and other states, and includes:

The word “Apostille” and a reference to the Hague Convention.
The name and title of the notary who signed the document.
The government stamp or seal.
A date and certificate number.
A signature from the official who issued it.

This certificate does not confirm the details of the background check, only that the signature and seal on it are valid.

How Does the U.S. Department of State FBI Apostille Look?

The U.S. Department of State FBI apostille is issued on the original FBI background check and confirms the authenticity. It includes:

The title “Apostille” and a reference to the Hague Convention.
The country name.
The name and title of the official who signed the original document.
The agency’s name - U.S. Department of Justice, FBI.
The place and date of certification.
A unique reference number and the official seal of the U.S. Department of State.
The signature of a Department of State official.

This apostille makes the FBI document legally valid for use in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Common Mistakes That Delay FBI Background Check Apostille Applications

FBI background check apostille applications are often delayed, not because of eligibility issues, but due to avoidable filing errors. Understanding these can significantly improve approval speed.

Improper notarization of the FBI report

The FBI background check must remain in its original form. The U.S. Department of State authenticates the FBI official signature directly, and any notarization will invalidate the document for apostille purposes.

Submitting to a state-level authority

A common misunderstanding is routing the application through the Secretary of State. FBI background checks are federal documents and must be processed exclusively by the U.S. Department of State.

Incorrect submission address selection

Applications must be correctly directed either to the Sterling, Virginia, mail facility or the Washington, D.C. in-person office. Misrouting is one of the most frequent causes of processing delays.

Errors on Form DS-4194

The Apostille Request Form must be completed with precision. The U.S. Department of State does not allow corrections, meaning even minor mistakes require a full resubmission.

Missing prepaid return envelope

A trackable prepaid return envelope is mandatory for document return. Failure to include one can result in significant delays or delivery issues.

Misjudging processing timelines

Standard mail-in processing in 2026 typically takes 6–8 weeks, excluding shipping time. Applicants should account for possible fluctuations in government processing volumes when planning deadlines.

Conclusion

Getting an FBI background check apostille in Washington DC requires four things: an original FBI Identity History Summary, a completed DS-4194 form, a payment to the US Department of State, and a prepaid return envelope.

Mail submissions take 6 to 8 weeks in 2026. In-person drop-off at 600 19th Street NW takes approximately 7 business days. For urgent travel within 14 days, book an emergency appointment.

If you are outside the US or working against a deadline, Globeia coordinates document review, in-person submission at the Washington DC office, and return delivery on your behalf.

[Get Your FBI Background Check Apostille with Globeia Today]

FAQs

Where do I submit my FBI background check apostille application?

FBI background check apostilles must be submitted to the U.S. Department of State (Office of Authentications) in Washington, D.C. Mail-in applications are processed through the Sterling, Virginia intake center, while in-person submissions are handled in Washington, D.C.

Can I track my FBI apostille application status?

The U.S. Department of State does not offer internal application tracking. However, you can track return delivery using your prepaid courier label. Applicants using Globeia receive submission updates and coordination support through their SmartPortal.

How can I get my FBI apostille processed faster?

There is no official expedited mail service. The fastest option is in-person submission in Washington, D.C. Alternatively, using a professional service like Globeia helps streamline submission, reduce errors, and avoid delays.

Can someone submit my FBI apostille application on my behalf?

Yes. A third-party representative can submit your application. Many applicants use Globeia as an authorized facilitator to manage documentation, submission, and return logistics, especially for international or urgent cases.

What is the correct address for FBI apostille submission?

Mail submissions go to the Sterling, Virginia, processing center. In-person submissions are handled at the U.S. Department of State office in Washington, D.C. Incorrect routing can result in delays or rejection.

How long does FBI apostille processing take in 2026?

Standard mail processing takes approximately 6–8 weeks, excluding mailing time. In-person submissions are typically processed in about 7 business days, depending on workload at the U.S. Department of State.

Do I need an apostille or authentication for my FBI background check?

If your destination country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, you need an apostille. If not, you will require authentication and embassy legalization instead.

Does Globeia provide FBI apostille support?

Yes. Globeia provides apostille coordination services in Washington DC including review, submission coordination, application handling, and international return shipping support for FBI apostille applications.

Can FBI apostille applications be delayed due to missing documents?

Yes. Missing the FBI report, DS-4194 form, payment, or return envelope can cause delays or rejection. Proper pre-checking or using Globeia’s review service helps ensure a complete application.

Do I need an FBI background check apostille or an RCMP criminal record check?

This depends on where you are from and where you are going. US citizens and residents applying for visas, residency, or citizenship abroad typically need an apostilled FBI background check. Canadian citizens or permanent residents are usually required to provide an RCMP criminal record check instead. Some countries require both. Always confirm the exact requirement with your destination country's consulate or immigration authority before applying.

Is an FBI apostille the same as an FBI authentication?

No. An apostille is issued for documents going to Hague Apostille Convention member countries and is accepted without further embassy steps. An authentication is issued for documents going to non-Hague countries and still requires additional embassy or consulate legalization in the destination country. The US Department of State issues both -you specify which you need on Form DS-4194.

Can I apostille an FBI background check for multiple countries at the same time?

No. Each apostille is issued for one specific destination country. If your document needs to be used in two different countries, you need to submit two separate applications with two separate fees. You will also need two original copies of your FBI background check - one for each submission.

Does an FBI background check apostille expire?

The apostille itself does not expire. However, most foreign governments require the underlying FBI background check to have been issued within the past 6 to 12 months at the time of submission. If your background check is older than that, you will likely need to obtain a new one before applying for an apostille. Always confirm the recency requirement with your destination country's consulate or receiving authority.

Written by :

We are a background screening and document verification agency in Toronto. While we cover the Greater Toronto Area for in-person appointments, the bulk of our clientele uses our online services from different countries of the world. Globeia makes it simple and cost-effective for companies and individuals to navigate governmental red tape without breaking the bank.

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