What is an FBI apostille and why do I need it?
An FBI apostille is the official U.S. Department of State authentication attached to your FBI Identity History Summary, making it legally recognised in all Hague Convention countries. It is required for international visa applications, permanent residency, overseas employment, and foreign university admissions.
How long does FBI apostille processing take?
Globeia processes FBI apostille (federal) within 11-13 business days, excluding mailing time and any U.S. Department of State backlog. Applying early is recommended to align with your visa or application timelines.
Can I get an FBI apostille from outside the United States?
Yes. Globeia processes FBI background check apostille applications from clients worldwide - you simply upload your original FBI Identity History Summary PDF through Globeia's secure SmartPortal and the team handles everything remotely.
What is the difference between a state apostille and a federal apostille for FBI background checks?
An FBI background check is a federal document issued by a U.S. federal agency - the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which means it must be authenticated through a federal apostille issued by the U.S. Department of State to be valid for international use. State-level apostilles are used for documents issued by individual U.S. states (such as birth or marriage certificates), but they are not applicable to FBI reports. For any international use of an FBI Identity History Summary, only a federal apostille is accepted by foreign authorities.
Do I need an apostille on my FBI background check for a Spanish visa?
Yes. Spain is a Hague Convention signatory, meaning your FBI apostille is required before your FBI background check is legally accepted for Spanish visa, residency, or Digital Nomad Visa applications. Globeia handles apostille and sworn Spanish translation as a combined service.
Is an FBI apostille the same as embassy legalisation?
No. An FBI apostille is accepted in Hague Convention countries only. For non-Hague countries such as the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar - documents require embassy legalisation. Globeia handles both processes.
What documents do I need to get an FBI apostille with Globeia?
You need the original PDF of your FBI Identity History Summary and your personal details completed through Globeia's automated SmartForm. No physical drop-offs, no additional paperwork - the entire process runs through Globeia's secure SmartPortal.
How much does an FBI apostille cost?
Globeia's FBI apostille pricing starts at $110 USD for federal apostille - fixed, transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges at any stage of the process.
Is my FBI background check still valid for apostille?
The FBI does not set an expiration date for the Identity History Summary. However, many foreign authorities require a recent FBI background check, often issued within a specific timeframe before submitting a visa or residency application.
Can I get an FBI apostille without mailing my documents?
Yes. In many cases, applicants can complete the process online by providing their FBI Identity History Summary electronically, while the service provider manages the apostille coordination.
Do I need a translation after getting an FBI apostille?
It depends on the country where you are submitting the document. Some countries require certified or official translations along with the apostilled FBI background check.
Does Globeia have any special authorization from the FBI to process apostilles?
No. Globeia is not an FBI-accredited channeler, and we don't claim any special status with the FBI or the Department of State. What we offer is document review and submission coordination - checking your file for the details that commonly cause rejection, then submitting it correctly. The apostille itself is issued solely by the Department of State, independent of any provider involved.