FBI background checks are US government-issued documents that outline your criminal history within the United States. Apostille is a certification from the US Department of State issued under the Apostille Hague Convention guidelines. Spanish authorities require this authentication on your FBI check for visa applications to verify your criminal history.
Getting your FBI background check apostilled from Spain can feel overwhelming since you have to follow a few extra steps. This Globeia blog will explain the process in simple terms so that you can confidently apply for an apostille on your FBI check. We will also explore the different Spanish visa types, including a deep dive into the visa application process for Spain.
Complete the DS-4194 Form
Start by downloading and filling out the DS-4194 form. This is the Department of State’s authentication service request form. Here are the three steps you need to follow to apply for an apostille on your FBI background check.
- Add your basic details like name, address, and birthdate in the respective field. Double-check to make sure that the spelling of your name exactly matches the details on your government-issued ID.
- Add the relevant Shipping details in Section 2 of the form.
- In Section 4, write "FBI Background Check" in the document type field of the Document Information section. You will also need to specify the country where you intend to use your apostilled FBI check.
Please keep in mind that accurately completing the DS-4194 form is key to getting your FBI background check apostille ready for Spain on time. Check for any typos and missing details before you mail the form to the FBI’s address.
Submission Guidelines
Now that your DS-4194 form is complete, let’s take a look at the FBI’s submission guidelines. Check to make sure that your application packet has the following:
- DS-4194 form completed in the previous step
- Your original FBI background check
- Proof of payment
- A Self-addressed envelope for return shipping
The Office of Authentications' apostille fee is $20 per document, which can be paid via money order or check depending on your preference. Take a quick look at your check to ensure that there are no numbers under 100 as instructed by the Department of State. The check cannot be older than 6 months and bank fill-in, temporary, or starter checks are not accepted.
The Self-addressed prepaid envelope will be used to return your apostilled FBI background check to you. The Office of Authentications recommends using USPS for mailing your application pocket. This is because you will be able to track your package and know when it has reached the US. Please do not use FedEx for your FBI apostille request because they cannot make deliveries or pickups from the Office of Authentications. Many applicants make this mistake which ends up delaying their background check apostille for months.
After following the submission guidelines given above, you can now mail your application to this address:
Office of Authentications
U.S. Department of State
CA/PPT/S/TO/AUT
44132 Mercure Circle
P.O. Box 1206
Sterling, VA 20166-1206
FBI Apostille Service
Submission guidelines feel like too much work? Globeia has got you covered. FBI apostille service providers like Globeia have expertise in completing the process without any errors or missed details. We offer faster processing times and peace of mind so you can rest assured that you will receive our help with fixing any issues in your application. Using Globeia’s apostille service also means that you will be able to easily track your request and communicate with our professionals throughout the process.
Applying on your own means a normal waiting time of more than 11 weeks. We can help you get your apostilled FBI clearance certificate back in Spain within 6-7 weeks. The Globeia team handles a large number of FBI apostille requests every week, so we know the Department of State’s requirements for the DS-4194 form, payments, and return envelopes inside out. We can easily spot any mistakes in different parts of the applications submitted by our clients and rectify those errors before forwarding their requests. This system of screening your application ensures that you do not have to face delays just because a detail was missed or mentioned incorrectly on your application.
We invite you to take a look at Globeia’s FBI apostille application portal here. Explore a new and improved way of submitting and tracking your apostille request from Spain. We have dedicated tabs for your basic details, document uploads, and detailed instructions to help you at every step.
The Spanish Visa Application Process
The first step is determining a Spanish visa category for your specific needs. Each category has its own requirements and eligibility criteria. The two main categories are:
Schengen Visas
These visas are valid for tourism, business trips, or visiting family, with a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
Long-stay Spanish Visas
Long-stay visas are for stays exceeding 90 days. Specific requirements differ based on the chosen subcategory from student visas, work visas, and residency visas.
Applying for Your Visa
Depending on your chosen category, you will need to fill out either the Schengen application form or Spain’s application form for its national visas. The next step is to attend your visa appointment and collect your documents which include your passport, proof of sufficient finances, accommodation, insurance, and an FBI background check.
How long does it take to process a Spanish visa application?
Processing times differ based on the type of visa and your nationality. Typically, short-stay Schengen visas take around 15 days for all European embassies. Long-stay visas, on the other hand, can take several months.
What if I need an FBI background check apostille for my visa application?
Many long-stay visa categories require an FBI background check apostille, which verifies the authenticity of your background check for foreign use. Obtaining the apostille involves separate applications to the FBI and then the US Department of State.
Where do I get an FBI background check apostille for Spain?
You can submit your request to the Department of State by mail. This is the most affordable option, but processing times can be longer. Companies like Globeia can handle the entire apostille process for you, including document preparation and submission to the USDOS.