Planning to work, study, or immigrate abroad from Brazil and need to prove your criminal history status? Then you’ll likely need an FBI background check from Brazil - a key document used to verify your record with U.S. law enforcement. Whether you’re an American citizen, a green card holder, or a non-U.S. citizen with a history in the United States, this background check is often mandatory for visa applications, employment, and residency procedures.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining your FBI background check from Brazil - from understanding what it is and how to apply, to avoiding common mistakes and even getting it apostilled for use in Brazil. You’ll also discover how Globeia simplifies the entire process with its secure online platform, fast turnaround times, and expert guidance so you can receive your FBI report without stress, delays, or confusion.
About the FBI Background Check
An FBI background check - often requested by individuals applying for visas, employment, or immigration abroad, is an official U.S. criminal record check that reviews your fingerprint data against the FBI’s national database. It provides verified information about your criminal history in the United States, including arrests, charges, or convictions, if any.
The process is managed by the Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), making it one of the most reliable and widely accepted forms of background verification worldwide.
If you are an American citizen, green card holder, or a foreign national who has lived, worked, or studied in the United States, you may need this report for purposes such as:
- Immigration or permanent residency applications
- Employment background screening
- Visa or work permit processing
- Legal and adoption procedures
- University admissions or study abroad programs
Whether you are living in Brazil or applying from abroad, obtaining an FBI background check from Brazil ensures that your record is recognized by U.S. authorities and accepted internationally.
If you’re looking for a simple, fast, and secure way to apply, Globeia can help you complete your FBI background check online from Brazil, with expert support, document review, and delivery in as little as 24-48 hours.
How to Apply for an FBI Background Check from Brazil
In case you are located in Brazil and your goal is to get the FBI criminal record check from Brazil by means of immigration, job, or visa applications, there are three options to do so - by mail, online through eDO portal, or via a reliable third-party agency like Globeia. If you are patient and meticulous in the following steps and the ensuring of fingerprint submission meeting the FBI's specifications, the process is simple.
Option 1: Apply via Mail
In case you want to do it the classical way, the FBI could receive your request for a criminal record check by ordinary mail sent directly to their headquarters in the US. The following is what you have to do:
- Get the FBI Application Form, Print and Fill it: Download the Criminal Background Check form from the official FBI website. Fill it out slowly and take care not to make errors in any of the information you provide.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents, including proof of identity and supporting paperwork.
- Capture Your Fingerprints: Visit a professional fingerprinting agency or local police department to have your fingerprints taken on an FBI-approved card (FD-1164 or FD-258).
- Make the Payment: Pay the processing fee using a certified check, money order, or credit card authorization form. Avoid sending cash or personal checks.
- Mail Your Application Package: Send your completed form, payment, and fingerprint card to:
- FBI CJIS Division - Summary Request
1000 Custer Hollow Road,
Clarksburg, WV 26306, USA
Once received, your application will be processed, and you’ll get your official FBI background check report by mail or email.
Option 2: Apply Online via the eDO Portal
The Electronic Departmental Order (eDO) system allows you to complete your FBI background check from Brazil entirely online. It’s faster and more convenient, ideal for individuals who prefer digital applications.
- Access the eDO Portal: Visit www.edo.cjis.gov and create your secure account.
- Complete the Application: Enter all details carefully and upload the required documents.
- Pay Online: You can pay the applicable fees instantly using a credit card or PayPal.
Submit Fingerprints: Once payment is done, you’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions on mailing your fingerprint card to the FBI’s official address.
Option 3: Apply Through a Trusted Third-Party Agency (Recommended)
For applicants who want a hassle-free and faster process, partnering with an FBI-accredited agency like Globeia is the best choice. Globeia offers an easy, step-by-step online process to complete your FBI background check from Brazil without dealing with complex paperwork.
Here’s how to apply with Globeia:
- Step 1: Start your application online on Globeia’s secure portal.
- Step 2: Pay using your preferred online payment option.
- Step 3: Upload a scanned copy of your fingerprint card for verification.
- Step 4: Mail the original fingerprint card to Globeia’s U.S. office.
- Step 5: Receive your results electronically within 24-48 hours (for U.S. citizens or green card holders) or within 2 weeks (for non-citizens).
Globeia also provides FBI apostille and translation services, ensuring your documents are ready for official use in Brazil - whether for immigration, work visas, or legal purposes.
This method ensures quicker processing - typically within 3–5 business days after the fingerprints are received.
Important Tips, Dos and Don’ts When Applying for an FBI Background Check from Brazil
When applying for your FBI background check from Brazil, paying attention to small details can save you time, money, and unnecessary delays. Below are the key dos and don’ts to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
Dos - What You Should Always Do
- Ensure Complete Accuracy: Double-check every section of your FBI background check form. Any incorrect personal detail, such as name or date of birth, can delay your application.
- Use High-Quality Fingerprints: Make sure your fingerprints are taken clearly by a professional using an FBI-approved fingerprint card (FD-1164 or FD-258). Smudged or incomplete fingerprints can cause rejection.
- Plan Ahead for Apostille Services: Since you’ll use your background check in Brazil, ensure the document is apostilled under the Hague Convention for legal acceptance.
- Track Your Application: Whether you apply by mail or online, use a secure courier or trackable mailing service to monitor your submission until it reaches the FBI or your authorized agency.
- Apply Early: Start your application well in advance, especially if it’s for a Brazilian visa, residency permit, or employment process, to avoid last-minute stress.
- Choose a Trusted Agency: Working with an FBI-approved channeler or third-party agency like Globeia ensures faster results and error-free processing.
- Keep Digital Copies: Always save scanned copies of your fingerprint card, payment receipt, and FBI report for future use or reissuance.
Don’ts - Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t Submit Incomplete Applications: Missing information, documents, or signatures can lead to immediate rejection. Always review your checklist before sending your application.
- Don’t Use Unaccredited Agencies: Submitting your fingerprints or documents through unverified sources can result in invalid or unrecognized background checks.
- Don’t Ignore Translation Requirements: If you plan to present your FBI report to a Brazilian authority, make sure to have it professionally translated into Portuguese by a certified translator.
- Don’t Send Poor-Quality Fingerprints: Prints with smudges, double impressions, or faded ink will likely be rejected and cause delays.
- Don’t Forget Payment Rules: The FBI and most authorized agencies accept only specific payment methods (e.g., certified checks, credit cards, or PayPal). Avoid personal checks or cash.
- Don’t Overlook Processing Times: Depending on your citizenship status, results may take a few days to several weeks. Factor this into your visa or residency timeline.
- Don’t Skip Apostille Verification: Without apostille legalization, your FBI background check won’t be valid for use in Brazil. Always confirm your report is apostilled before submission.
Pro Tip: The easiest way to avoid these common mistakes is to apply through Globeia, which handles everything - from fingerprint verification to FBI apostille services, ensuring your FBI background check from Brazil is accepted without delays.
Additional Services You May Require for an FBI Background Check from Brazil
If you are applying for an FBI background check from Brazil, the likelihood is that you will require extra services to make sure your document is accepted for official use. One of the most common requirements is getting an apostille on your FBI background check. An apostille is a certificate that the document is valid for international use and at the same time, it is a proof of authenticity, which is very important for applications like immigration, employment, or legal issues in Brazil. If your background check lacks an apostille, it could be rejected or delayed by Brazilian authorities.
Apostille is a procedure that eliminates the need for further legalization in the case of the USA and Brazil that are both Hague Apostille Convention signatories. Yet, the U.S. Department of State's direct application for an apostille is often time-consuming and not straightforward.
Globeia is there to help you with the whole process since the company is providing apostille services for FBI background checks, thus, making the whole process smoother, getting faster results, and offering prices that are very competitive. When Globeia is involved, you will get your FBI background check apostilled for use in Brazil without the typical hassle.
Conclusion
Acquiring an FBI background check in Brazil is a must for criminal record verification in the US, for immigration, employment, visa applications, or residency reasons among others. Furthermore, in many instances, the FBI apostille service could be a requirement to make the document recognized by the Brazilian authorities. Knowing the application procedure, steering clear of typical errors, and employing trustworthy providers can help you save time and ensure you get the right document.
If you would like to avoid the trouble that comes with the application, it is possible to apply online via Globeia. Globeia is a reputable agency with a committed staff, offering quick processing, safe handling, and professional assistance for your FBI background check and apostille requirements.