Spain is undoubtedly a beautiful country where many Americans are moving for job opportunities, starting a business, or pursuing a new life through immigration.

However, before making the move, many Americans faced challenges related to documentation and official verifications. One of the most important documents required by Spanish immigration authorities is the FBI background check.

In this guide, we'll explain what an FBI background check is, why Spain requires it, and how you can easily request it while living abroad.

Understand the FBI Background Check

An FBI background check is a report that shows an individual's criminal history as recorded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It is also known as an Identity History Summary Check. This check is conducted using fingerprints and provides information from the FBI's extensive fingerprint database.

It includes any records related to arrests, charges, court convictions, sentencing, and, in some cases, federal employment history. It is one of the most trusted and thorough background checks available in the United States, as it utilizes both fingerprint and law enforcement data from across the country.

Needs of an FBI Check in Spain

Here are some common reasons why you might need it:

1. Visa and Immigration Applications: Suppose you are applying for a Spanish visa. In that case, whether for work, long-term stay, education, or other purposes, the government may require an FBI check to verify that you don't have a serious criminal record.

2. Working Abroad: If you're getting a job in Spain with an international company, an FBI criminal record check may be required to prove that you're trustworthy, especially for roles with sensitive responsibilities.

3. Adoption in Spain: Planning to adopt a child in Spain? You'll likely need to provide a clean FBI record to show you have no history of violent or serious crimes. FBI checks help to ensure a safe home environment for the child.

4 Professional Licensing in Spain: Certain professions in Spain, such as teaching, nursing, finance, or security, require a background check from the USA. It helps confirm that you are qualified and legally allowed to work in these fields.

5. Personal Use or Identity Protection: Some people living in Spain may request an FBI check for personal reasons, such as to verify the accuracy of their records or to check for signs of identity theft.

Simple Steps to Apply for an FBI Criminal Record Check for Spain

To easily complete your FBI check from the USA or Spain, you must follow these steps:

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

The first step is to check the exact requirements of the authority or organization in Spain. Every office might have slightly different rules. Some will only accept the FBI background check if it is authenticated with an apostille from the U.S. Department of State.

If you're applying for Spanish residency or visa purposes, it's common for the Spanish authorities to request a translated version of your FBI report. Additionally, verify the requirements for apostilling other documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and educational records, to complete them simultaneously. If you confirm these details, you can avoid having to repeat the process later.

Step 2: Get Your Fingerprints Taken

Once you understand the requirements, the next step is fingerprinting. The FBI criminal record check is based on your fingerprints, which are compared against an extensive database of records. If you are in Spain or abroad, you can get your fingerprints taken at a local police station or through a professional fingerprinting agency.

You'll need to use an FBI-approved fingerprint card, such as FD-258 or FD-1164. These can be downloaded from the FBI website or obtained through a third-party agency. The fingerprints must be clear and readable. Smudged or faint prints may cause delays or result in rejection. That's why many people prefer using professional services to ensure everything is done correctly.

Step 3: Choose Your Submission Method

There are three main ways to apply for an FBI background check from abroad:

Option 1: Apply by Mail

Mailing is a traditional method that can take time. You'll need to download and fill out the FBI background check request form from the FBI website. Then, attach your fingerprint card (FD-258 or FD-1164) and make the payment. The fee can be paid via credit card form, money order, or certified check. Do not send cash or personal checks, as they will not be accepted. Once everything is ready, you mail your complete application to:

FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request

1000 Custer Hollow Road

Clarksburg, WV 26306, USA

Since international mailing can take time, consider using a tracked or express delivery service. Always ensure to include a prepaid return envelope.

Option 2: Apply Online via the FBI eDO Portal

The second method is to apply online using the FBI's eDO system. It is much faster and easier.

Follow these steps for processing:

Visit: https://www.edo.cjis.gov
Create an account by entering your email address and filling in your details.
Pay the fee via credit card or PayPal.
You'll receive an email confirmation with a mailing address.
Mail your fingerprint card to the address provided in the confirmation.
You can track your status online and receive results electronically.

Option 3: Use a Trusted Third-Party Agency

The third and most convenient option is to use a trusted third-party agency, such as Globeia. We will handle the entire process for you and guide you at every step. If you're not comfortable dealing with paperwork or online forms, it is a great solution.

Here's how it usually works: You start by filling in your personal information and uploading your identification documents on Globeia’s portal. Then, you scan and upload a copy of your fingerprint card for quality review.

Once approved, you send the original fingerprint card by mail to our U.S.-based office. After all submissions are received, your background check will be processed. For U.S. citizens and green card holders, the results are typically ready in 1–2 business days. For non-U.S. citizens, it can take up to two weeks.

Get Your FBI Background Check Apostille for Spain

An apostille is one of the most essential requirements when using your FBI background check in Spain. The FBI background check can be authenticated with an apostille from the U.S. Department of State to make it officially recognized. It also helps to avoid any mistakes, delays, or rejections in international legal or immigration processes.

While getting an apostilled FBI report is not simple, it requires a clear understanding and careful compliance with all the requirements of the U.S. Department of State. That's why choosing a trusted service like Globeia can help you complete the apostille process accurately and on time.

Complete Spanish Translation of FBI Background Check Apostille

Once you have your FBI background check apostilled, there is one final step- it needs to be translated into Spanish before you can use it for immigration or a visa in Spain.

Spain authorities, whether it's a consulate, immigration office, or government ministry, need all foreign documents to be presented in Spanish. The translation must be official and certified by a sworn translator.

The Spanish government officially approves a sworn translator to create legal translations. They provide a signed certificate confirming that the translation is accurate and can be used for legal purposes.

Having your FBI apostille translated by a sworn translator is essential. It ensures your documents are clearly understood and legally accepted by Spanish authorities. Missing this step can result in delays or rejections during your immigration process.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, obtaining an FBI background check is essential for anyone planning to live, work, or study in Spain. Start by confirming your document requirements with the Spanish authorities, which include your FBI background check, a USA apostille for your birth certificate, marriage certificate, or educational records.

Next, get your fingerprints taken accurately at the nearest police station or a professional fingerprinting agency, following official guidelines to avoid delays. Then, submit your fingerprints directly to the FBI or use a trusted third-party service to complete your background check.

After receiving your FBI background check, get it apostilled and translated into Spanish by an authorized sworn translator. For a smooth, stress-free process, consider using a professional service like Globeia. They specialize in FBI background checks, apostilles, and certified translations, making the process faster and easier for people abroad. Following these steps will help you move forward confidently with your plans in Spain.

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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