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No Matter What State You’re In: Get Your FBI Apostille Fast — All 50 States
One of the most common questions we hear from people who have just received their FBI results: ‘I’m in Boston / Denver / Dallas / Miami — do I need to go to Washington DC or Los Angeles to get my apostille done?’
The answer is no. You do not need to travel anywhere.
MR Fingerprints processes FBI apostilles for clients in all 50 states — online. You email us your FBI PDF. We handle the rest. Your apostilled document ships directly to your door, anywhere in the United States. Here is how it works and why your location does not matter at all.
Why People Think They Need to Be in DC or LA
The confusion makes sense. The US Department of State Office of Authentications — the only office in the country that can apostille an FBI document — is in the Washington DC area. MR Fingerprints is based in downtown Los Angeles. So people assume they need to be close to one or the other.
They do not. Here is why:
- The State Department accepts PDF submissions for FBI apostille — you do not need to mail a physical document to DC
- MR Fingerprints works with a DC-based partner who submits your document in person at the State Department walk-in counter every business day
- You email us your FBI PDF from wherever you are. We handle DC. Your apostilled document ships to your address.
Your location is irrelevant to the apostille process. Whether you are in Boston, Denver, New York City, Houston, Seattle, or a small town in Kansas — the process is identical and the timeline is the same.
Who We Serve — All 50 States
We process FBI apostilles for clients across the entire country. Here is a sample of where our clients are located:
| Northeast & Mid-Atlantic | Mountain & West | South & Southeast | Midwest & Other |
| Massachusetts (Boston) | Colorado (Denver) | Texas (Dallas/Houston) | Florida (Miami/Orlando) |
| New York (NYC) | California (LA/SF) | Georgia (Atlanta) | Illinois (Chicago) |
| Washington (Seattle) | Arizona (Phoenix) | Virginia (DC Metro) | North Carolina (Charlotte) |
| Pennsylvania (Philadelphia) | Ohio (Columbus) | Michigan (Detroit) | Nevada (Las Vegas) |
If your state is not on this list — it does not matter. If you have a US mailing address and a PDF of your FBI Identity History Summary, we can process your apostille.
The Process — Step by Step
Here is exactly what the apostille process looks like for a client in Boston, Denver, or anywhere else in the country:
Step 1 — You Email Us Your FBI PDF
As soon as you receive your FBI Identity History Summary — whether it came by email from the FBI or from an FBI-approved channeler — forward that PDF to [email protected]. That is the only thing you send us. No mailing anything. No driving anywhere. Just an email.
Step 2 — We Prepare Your Submission Package
We complete your DS-4194 form (the State Department’s Request for Authentication Services form) with the correct destination country, correct fee, and all required information. This is the step where most DIY submissions fail — an incorrect or incomplete DS-4194 causes the entire package to be returned unprocessed, resetting your timeline. We have processed thousands of these. Errors do not happen.
Step 3 — Our DC Partner Submits In Person
Our Washington DC partner submits your document at the State Department Office of Authentications walk-in counter — the fastest submission method available. The State Department processes your apostille in 7–10 business days.
Step 4 — We Ship to Your Address
Once the State Department releases your apostilled document, we ship it directly to your address via FedEx or UPS — Boston, Denver, New York, or anywhere else. If you need a certified translation for your destination country, we include that in the same shipment.
Total time from the day you email us your PDF: approximately 2–3 weeks. From Boston, Denver, Miami, or any other city in the country.
Do I Need to Be in Washington DC to Get an FBI Apostille?
| No — and here is why that misconception persists The State Department’s walk-in counter IS in Washington DC — but you do not need to show up there yourself. Any person or service with a DC presence can submit on your behalf. MR Fingerprints has a dedicated DC partner who does this every business day. The apostille is mailed back to whoever submitted it — our partner, who then ships it to your address. You stay in Boston. You stay in Denver. Your apostilled FBI document comes to you. |
What If I Still Need My FBI Background Check?
If you have not yet received your FBI results, MR Fingerprints handles that step too. We work with an FBI-approved Channeler, which means we can submit your fingerprints electronically directly to the FBI DOJ in Sacramento — significantly faster than the standard FBI mail-in process.
Here is how to get fingerprinted from anywhere in the US:
- In-person Live Scan at our downtown Los Angeles location — if you are in Southern California or visiting LA, this is the fastest and most accurate method. Results the same day in most cases.
- Local fingerprinting near you — most UPS Stores, police stations, and notary offices can take ink fingerprints on standard FD-258 cards. Contact us first and we will send instructions. Mail your completed ink cards to us and we handle FBI submission.
FBI results after submission: the same day in most cases. Then we proceed immediately to the apostille — back to your door in 2–3 weeks total.
What About Certified Translation?
If your destination country requires a certified translation of your FBI document — Germany, Italy, Portugal, Brazil, France, Spain, Mexico, and others — we handle that as part of the same process. Your apostilled document and certified translation ship together to your address. One provider, one package, one timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m in Boston — how do I get started?
Email your FBI Identity History Summary PDF to [email protected]. We handle the rest from there — State Department submission, apostille, and delivery to your Boston address. No travel required.
I’m in Denver — same question.
Identical process. Email us your FBI PDF from Denver. Apostilled document ships to Denver. Approximately 2–3 weeks total. If you still need your FBI background check, contact us and we will walk you through getting fingerprinted locally in Denver or by mail.
What if I’m moving and my address will change before the apostille arrives?
Let us know your expected move date when you email us. We can time the return shipment to arrive at your new address, or hold the apostilled document for a few days until you confirm your new address. Just communicate with us — we handle logistics for clients in transition all the time.
Can I use MR Fingerprints if I’m moving abroad and only have a few weeks?
Yes — this is exactly the situation we are built for. Email us your FBI PDF as soon as you have it. Our apostille service takes approximately 2-3 weeks door to door. If you have a hard deadline — a consulate appointment, a visa window, an employment start date — tell us when you contact us and we will confirm whether the timeline works and advise if there is anything to accelerate.
| ???? Wherever You Are — Email Us Your FBI PDF and We Take It From Here All 50 states served — Boston, Denver, New York, Dallas, Miami, Seattle, and everywhere in between. Email your FBI Identity History Summary PDF to us today. We begin processing the same day we receive it. Apostilled document delivered to your door in approximately 2–3 weeks. Certified translations available for Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Brazil, Mexico, and more. |
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FBI Background Check for UAE / Dubai: Embassy Legalization Guide (Not an Apostille)
If you are moving to Dubai or Abu Dhabi for work, applying for a UAE Golden Visa, or seeking professional licensure with DHA, DOH, or KHDA, you may be asked for an FBI background check. But the UAE process is unlike any other country in our network – and getting it wrong is expensive.
Here is the most important thing to know before you read anything else: the UAE is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. The UAE is not listed in the Hague Conference status table for the Apostille Convention, so a U.S. apostille is not the right authentication for UAE use. What you need is embassy legalization – a two-step chain involving US Department of State authentication followed by UAE Embassy attestation. This guide explains exactly what that means, why it matters, and how the complete process works in 2026.
The Single Biggest Mistake: Ordering an Apostille for the UAE
⚠️ Critical: Apostille ≠ Embassy Legalization for UAE
US citizens headed to Dubai and Abu Dhabi often order an apostille on their FBI background check – because that’s what they see on every other country’s requirements list.
Check with your UAE authority before ordering an apostille.
Embassy attestation is a separate step that follows State Department authentication.
If you have already received an apostille on your FBI document for UAE use, contact MR Fingerprints before submitting – we can advise on whether the document needs to be reprocessed.
The correct process: US Department of State authentication certificate + UAE Embassy attestation. Two steps. Both required. In that order.
Why UAE Requires Embassy Legalization Instead of Apostille
The Hague Apostille Convention was established in 1961 to simplify document authentication between member countries. Most of Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific are members. Documents apostilled by one member country are automatically accepted by all other member countries.
The UAE has not joined the Hague Convention. As a non-member, the UAE uses legalization rather than the apostille.
Instead, the UAE operates on a bilateral legalization system. Documents destined for the UAE must be authenticated by the US Department of State (which verifies the US government origin of the document), and then separately stamped by the UAE Embassy in Washington DC (which confirms the UAE’s acceptance of the document for use within the country). Both stamps together constitute embassy legalization.
This is meaningfully more complex than an apostille – it involves two separate government agencies, two separate fees, and takes longer. MR Fingerprints manages the complete chain so you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Who Needs FBI Background Check Legalization for UAE?
Employment Visa (Employer-Sponsored)
The most common situation. All US citizens taking up employment in the UAE require an FBI background check with full embassy legalization. Your employer initiates the visa process through MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) but the FBI documentation is your personal responsibility – you obtain it and submit it as part of your employment onboarding. Ask your employer or PRO how recent the document must be.
UAE Golden Visa – Skilled Professionals
The UAE Golden Visa grants 5 or 10 year renewable residence without requiring a local sponsor. Authorities may ask for police clearance from countries of prior residence. If they ask for your U.S. record, the FBI report goes through State Department authentication and UAE Embassy attestation. Confirm with the authority handling your file.
UAE Golden Visa – Investors
Investor applicants may be asked for police clearance as part of the eligibility package. Confirm with the authority handling your file whether they want the FBI report and legalization.
DHA License – Dubai Health Authority
All healthcare professionals working in Dubai – doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and all allied health professionals – must obtain DHA licensure. Confirm with DHA which police clearances it requires. For US citizens, the FBI Identity History Summary is typically legalized (State Dept authentication + UAE Embassy attestation). Licensing can take time, so start early.
DOH License – Abu Dhabi (Formerly HAAD)
The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi licenses healthcare professionals working in Abu Dhabi. It was renamed from HAAD (Health Authority Abu Dhabi) in 2017 – many older guides and websites still use the HAAD name, but DOH is correct. Confirm requirements with DOH; for US citizens the FBI report is typically legalized (State Dept authentication + UAE Embassy attestation). If you see ‘HAAD’ in your application materials, it refers to the same authority now called DOH.
KHDA – Knowledge and Human Development Authority
KHDA oversees private schools, universities, nurseries, and educational institutions in Dubai. Ask KHDA or your school what police clearances it requires. If it asks for your U.S. record, the FBI report goes through State Department authentication and UAE Embassy attestation. KHDA coordinates with the Ministry of Education for curriculum and qualification recognition processes.
Finance, Legal, and Regulated Industry Employment
UAE financial institutions, law firms, and other regulated businesses frequently require FBI clearance for US-citizen employees as part of their compliance and onboarding documentation. Requirements vary by institution – confirm with your employer’s compliance team or PRO.
The UAE Legalization Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Get your FBI Identity History Summary. Order online. We email instructions right away. Get your prints rolled in ink on an FD-258 fingerprint card at a local provider (bring two blank cards in case one is rejected), then mail the card to us in Los Angeles with a tracked courier. We work with an FBI-approved Channeler to submit your prints to the FBI. FBI results usually take 7-9 business days after the FBI receives your card. Result notifications come from the Channeler, not from MR Fingerprints. Visiting Los Angeles? You can be fingerprinted in person at our only office, 617 S Olive St, Ste 806 (Oviatt Building).
Step 2: U.S. Department of State authentication. We submit your FBI report to the U.S. Department of State Office of Authentications. For the UAE this is issued as an authentication certificate, not an apostille. Processing takes 7-10 business days. This step must be completed before the UAE Embassy will attest anything.
Step 3: UAE Embassy attestation in Washington, DC. After the authentication certificate is returned, the document is submitted to the UAE Embassy for attestation. Embassy processing times and fees are set by the embassy, so confirm the current ones with us before you order.
Step 4: Arabic translation, if required. Not all UAE authorities require it, but some do. Confirm before you start. We can arrange a certified Arabic translation on request (quote only).
Step 5: Submit to your UAE authority. Send the complete package to your employer’s PRO, to DHA/DOH/KHDA, or to the immigration authority for your visa type.
Timeline and Recency for UAE
- Mailing your FD-258 card to us: depends on your courier
- FBI processing: usually 7-9 business days after the FBI receives your card
- U.S. Department of State authentication: 7-10 business days
- UAE Embassy attestation: set by the embassy, confirm current timing with us
- Arabic translation, if required: quoted separately
- Return shipping: USPS Priority included, Overnight $40
Add these up with your own mailing time before you commit to a deadline. If your deadline is tight, contact us before you order.
How recent must the FBI report be? We did not find an official UAE source that sets one number for every authority, so check with the authority requesting your report (your employer’s PRO, DHA, DOH, KHDA, or the immigration authority). Many ask for a recent report, so avoid starting too early or too late.
Arabic Translation – UAE-Specific Guidance
The Arabic translation requirement for UAE FBI documents is not universal – and confirming this in advance will save you time and money. Here is the general pattern:
• Private sector employers – requirements vary widely. Some require Arabic translation, many do not. Ask your employer’s PRO or HR team before starting.
• Government and semi-government positions – Arabic translation more commonly required. Check with the specific authority.
• DHA applications – translation requirements vary by professional category. Confirm with DHA directly.
• DOH (Abu Dhabi) – similar to DHA. Confirm with DOH for your specific license type.
• KHDA – confirm with KHDA directly. Requirements can vary based on your institution type and role.
• Golden Visa – translation requirements vary by category and emirate (Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi). Confirm with GDRFA or ICP/TAMM.
MR Fingerprints advises you on translation requirements based on your specific situation before you begin, so you receive the complete package you need – no back-and-forth after submission.
How the UAE Compares to Hague Countries
- Hague countries (for example Mexico, Singapore, Spain, Australia): FBI report plus a federal apostille from the U.S. Department of State. Two steps.
- UAE (non-Hague): FBI report, then State Department authentication, then UAE Embassy attestation in Washington, DC. Three steps, so plan extra time. A $50 non-Hague fee applies to our price (see Pricing below).
- Translation: some UAE authorities ask for Arabic. Confirm with your specific authority.
Need documents for more than one country? Contact us and we will help you plan the order of the steps.
Common Mistakes for UAE Submissions
- Ordering an apostille instead of embassy legalization. Confirm what your UAE authority wants before you order.
- Skipping the UAE Embassy step. State Department authentication alone is not the full chain.
- Starting too late. The chain has several government steps. If your start date is close, contact us immediately.
- Not confirming translation requirements. Do not submit without Arabic if it is required, and do not pay for it if it is not.
- Calling DOH “HAAD.” HAAD was renamed DOH in 2017. Use DOH in your paperwork.
- Expecting the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to take your prints. U.S. embassies and consulates generally do not roll fingerprints for FBI Identity History Summary requests. Use a local fingerprinting provider, then mail the FD-258 card to us.
How MR Fingerprints Handles the UAE Process
- FBI fingerprinting: ink card mailed from the UAE (mailed), or in person at our Downtown Los Angeles office
- We work with an FBI-approved Channeler to submit your prints to the FBI
- U.S. Department of State authentication (not an apostille)
- UAE Embassy attestation in Washington, DC
- Certified Arabic translation on request (quote only)
- Service for U.S. citizens anywhere. You start online; our only office is 617 S Olive St, Ste 806 (Oviatt Building), Los Angeles.
Pricing
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| FBI Background Check | $150 |
| Authentication only (you already have your FBI report), non-Hague | $250 ($200 + $50 non-Hague fee) |
| FBI + Authentication Bundle, non-Hague | $375 ($325 + $50 non-Hague fee) |
| Certified Arabic translation | Quote only |
| Return shipping | USPS Priority included, Overnight $40 |
UAE Embassy fees and timing are set by the embassy. Ask us for the current details before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an apostille for my UAE / Dubai application?
The UAE is not listed in the Hague Conference status table for the Apostille Convention, so the usual route for UAE use is State Department authentication followed by UAE Embassy attestation in Washington, DC, together called embassy legalization. Confirm with your UAE authority before you order.
What is the UAE FBI legalization process?
Step 1: obtain your FBI Identity History Summary. Step 2: U.S. Department of State authentication certificate. Step 3: UAE Embassy attestation in Washington, DC. Step 4: Arabic translation if required. The steps are done in that order.
How long does UAE FBI legalization take?
FBI results usually take 7-9 business days after the FBI receives your fingerprint card, and State Department authentication takes 7-10 business days. UAE Embassy timing is set by the embassy. Add your own mailing time and any translation. Contact us if you have a deadline.
How much does it cost?
The FBI background check is $150. Because the UAE is not a Hague member, a $50 non-Hague fee applies: $250 for authentication only or $375 for the FBI + authentication bundle. Arabic translation is quote only. UAE Embassy fees are set by the embassy.
What is the difference between DHA and DOH in the UAE?
DHA is the Dubai Health Authority, which licenses healthcare professionals in Dubai. DOH is the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi, formerly called HAAD. Confirm with each authority what it requires from U.S. applicants.
Is a UAE police clearance the same as an FBI background check?
When a UAE employer asks for a U.S. police clearance certificate or Good Conduct Certificate, they generally mean the FBI Identity History Summary. Confirm with your employer or authority whether legalization is required.
Does the UAE require Arabic translation of the FBI report?
It depends on your emirate, employer and licensing body. Some require Arabic, others do not. Confirm with your authority. We can arrange certified translation on request.
Can I get fingerprinted in the UAE?
U.S. embassies and consulates generally do not roll fingerprints for FBI requests. Use a local fingerprinting provider or a police station that will roll ink prints on an FD-258 card, then mail the card to us. Bring two blank cards. Practice varies, so call ahead.
Ready to get started?
The UAE chain has several government steps, but it is manageable with one provider. Order online or book a 15-minute call. Call 213.761.5883 or email [email protected].
More help: FBI fingerprinting for U.S. citizens abroad | Nationwide FBI background check | FBI apostille in all 50 states
How to Get an FBI Background Check Apostille: Complete 2026 Guide
How to Get an FBI Background Check Apostille: Complete 2026 Guide
You applied for your visa, or you’re in the middle of a citizenship by descent application, or your new employer abroad just sent you a checklist — and somewhere on that list it says ‘FBI background check with apostille.’ Now you’re wondering what that means, who does it, how long it takes, and whether you’re going to miss your deadline.
This guide covers everything you need to know about apostilling an FBI background check in 2026 — what an apostille actually is, why you need a federal one specifically, the step-by-step process, realistic timelines, the 7 most common mistakes that cause rejections, and which countries also require a certified translation on top of the apostille.
What Is an Apostille — and Why Does Your FBI Document Need One?
An apostille is an internationally recognized certification that authenticates a document for use in a foreign country. It confirms that the document is genuine — that it was issued by a legitimate authority and that the signature and seal on it are real.
The apostille system was established under the Hague Convention of 1961, which is an international treaty now signed by 129 countries. When a document is apostilled by the issuing country, all 129 member countries agree to accept it without any further authentication. No embassy visits, no consulate stamps — just the apostille.
Your FBI background check — officially called an FBI Identity History Summary — needs an apostille because it is a US government document being used in a foreign country. The foreign consulate, immigration authority, or employer that receives it needs to verify that it is genuine before they accept it. The apostille is that verification.
Without an apostille, your FBI background check is just a piece of paper as far as foreign governments are concerned. Most will reject it outright.
Federal Apostille vs. State Apostille — Why This Distinction Is Critical
| ⚠️ The Single Most Common and Costly Mistake in This Entire Process A California apostille, a Texas apostille, a New York apostille — ANY state apostille on an FBI document is INVALID. Every foreign consulate that reviews a state-apostilled FBI document will reject it. You will lose weeks of processing time and have to start the apostille process over from scratch with the correct federal apostille. This mistake is extremely common because people search ‘apostille near me’ and go to their state Secretary of State office. The state Secretary of State has zero authority over FBI documents. The FBI is a federal agency. |
Here is why this rule exists and why it is absolute:
Apostilles must be issued by the government authority that has jurisdiction over the agency that issued the document. For state documents — birth certificates, marriage licenses, diplomas — that is the state Secretary of State. For federal documents — FBI background checks, IRS letters, USCIS certificates, federal court orders — that authority is the US Department of State in Washington DC.
The US Department of State Office of Authentications is the only office in the entire United States with the authority to apostille an FBI background check. There are no exceptions, no alternatives, and no workarounds.
MR Fingerprints coordinates only the correct US Department of State federal apostille for FBI documents. We never use state apostilles for FBI background checks.
Who Needs an FBI Background Check Apostille?
You need an apostilled FBI background check if you are submitting it to any authority in a Hague Convention member country — which covers 129 countries worldwide. The most common situations include:
- Applying for a long-stay visa or residency permit abroad — Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Germany, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Greece, and 100+ others
- Applying for citizenship by descent — Italy, Ireland, Portugal, Croatia, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and others require an apostilled FBI check as part of the citizenship documentation package
- Citizenship by investment programs — Caribbean CBI programs including St Kitts, Dominica, Grenada, Antigua, and St Lucia all require apostilled FBI clearance
- Digital nomad visas — Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa, Portugal’s D8, Italy’s digital nomad visa, Colombia’s digital nomad visa, and others
- Australian visa applications — Australia requires police clearances from all countries of prior residence, and the FBI check must be apostilled
- Teaching abroad — international schools and government-sponsored teaching programs require apostilled US criminal clearance
- Healthcare and professional licensing abroad — UAE HAAD, KHDA, and other regulatory bodies require apostilled FBI clearance
- International adoption — USCIS I-800A and I-600A processes require apostilled FBI fingerprints from both parents
- Marriage abroad — Portugal, Brazil, and other countries require apostilled criminal clearance for foreign nationals marrying locally
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your FBI Background Check Apostilled
Step 1 — Get Your FBI Identity History Summary
Before you can apostille anything, you need the FBI document itself. There are two ways to obtain it:
- Through MR Fingerprints (recommended): Contact us, visit our Los Angeles location for Live Scan fingerprinting or use our process, and receive your FBI Identity History Summary the same day in most cases. The Channeler emails you a PDF copy directly.
- Directly through the FBI: Submit fingerprint cards and payment directly to the FBI’s CJIS Division. Standard processing is 6–8 weeks. You receive a hard copy by mail only.
The MR Fingerprints route is significantly faster and delivers a PDF — which is accepted by the US Department of State for apostille purposes and means you can start the apostille process the same day you receive your results.
Step 2 — Email Your FBI Document to MR Fingerprints
Email us your FBI Identity History Summary as a PDF. We begin processing your apostille submission the same day we receive it. If you only have a hard copy, mail it to us via any trackable courier — FedEx Express, UPS, or USPS Priority — and we will handle the rest.
Important: Do NOT notarize your FBI document before sending it to us. The US Department of State authenticates the signature of the FBI’s Section Chief of Biometric Services directly. If you notarize the document first, you break the authentication chain and the State Department will reject your submission.
Step 3 — We Prepare Your DS-4194 Form and Submission Package
The DS-4194 is the US Department of State’s Request for Authentication Services form. It must be completed correctly before your document can be processed. The most common errors on this form — and the most common reason apostille submissions are returned unprocessed — are:
- Leaving Section 4 (destination country) blank — the State Department will not process the apostille without knowing which country the document is going to
- Using the old fee amount — the DS-4194 form has technically expired but is still accepted. However the government fee changed to $20 per document. Submitting with the old $18 fee causes your submission to be returned
- Incorrect payment method — mail submissions require check or money order only, made payable to ‘U.S. Department of State.’ No cash, no credit cards by mail
MR Fingerprints prepares the DS-4194 and the complete submission package on your behalf, eliminating these error risks entirely.
Step 4 — Submission to the US Department of State
The State Department Office of Authentications is located in Sterling, Virginia (mailing address) with in-person drop-off in Washington DC. The walk-in counter is open Monday through Thursday, 7:30am–9:00am only — a narrow window that makes in-person submissions impractical for most individuals.
MR Fingerprints works with a DC-area partner who submits documents in person daily at the Office of Authentications. This is the fastest non-emergency submission method available and is how we achieve 7–10 business day processing for expedited orders. Standard mail-in submissions take 6–8 weeks.
Step 5 — State Department Processes Your Apostille
Once submitted, the State Department authenticates the signature of the FBI Section Chief on your document and attaches the apostille certificate — either directly on the document or on a separate page called an allonge. Processing times as of 2026:
- Standard (mail-in): 6–8 weeks from the date the State Department receives your package
- Expedited (in-person drop-off by our DC partner): 7–10 business days
- Emergency (life-or-death only): Same-day — requires documented proof and advance approval by the authentications office. Visa deadlines do not qualify.
Step 6 — We Deliver Your Apostilled Document
Once the State Department releases your apostilled document, we ship it to your address via FedEx or UPS. If your destination country requires a certified translation — Portugal, Brazil, Germany, France, Italy, Colombia, Costa Rica, Greece, and others — we can coordinate the translation simultaneously so both documents arrive together as a submission-ready package.
Realistic Timeline: How Long Does It All Take?
Here is an honest breakdown from start to finish:
| Step | Standard Timeline | Expedited Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Get your FBI document | Same day in most cases (via MR Fingerprints) | Same day in most cases (via MR Fingerprints) |
| Email PDF to MR Fingerprints | Same day | Same day |
| We prepare & submit to State Dept. | Same day we receive your PDF | Same day we receive your PDF |
| State Dept. apostille processing | 6–8 weeks (mail-in) | 7–10 business days (in-person DC drop-off) |
| Return delivery to you | 3–5 business days via courier | 3–5 business days via FedEx/UPS |
| TOTAL | ~8–10 weeks | ~2–3 weeks |
| ???? The 90-Day Rule — Why Timing Matters More Than Most People Realize Most countries require your FBI background check to be issued within 90 days of your visa or immigration application submission date. The 90-day clock starts when the FBI issues your document — not when you get the apostille, not when you submit your application. This means if you get your FBI document and then wait 6–8 weeks for a standard apostille, you may have only a few weeks of valid window left by the time you’re ready to apply. Plan backwards from your consulate appointment or application deadline. If your timeline is tight — contact us and ask about the expedited option. 2–3 weeks total is achievable. |
The 7 Most Common Mistakes That Cause Rejections and Delays
These are not theoretical — they are the actual reasons apostille submissions get returned or applications get rejected at consulates. Every one of them is avoidable.
| Mistake | Why It Matters |
| Using a state apostille | The most expensive mistake. California, Texas, New York — no state has authority over FBI documents. Every consulate rejects it. You lose weeks and must start over with a federal apostille. |
| Not specifying the destination country on DS-4194 | The State Department will not process your apostille without the destination country listed in Section 4 of the DS-4194 form. Your entire submission gets returned, unprocessed. |
| Sending cash by mail | The State Department only accepts checks or money orders by mail, made out to ‘U.S. Department of State.’ Cash submissions are rejected and returned. |
| Submitting a notarized FBI document | Do NOT notarize your FBI background check before submitting for apostille. The State Department authenticates the FBI Section Chief’s signature directly — notarizing it first invalidates the chain of authority. |
| Waiting too long — the 90-day rule | Most countries require the FBI document to be issued within 90 days of your application. If you get your apostille but your FBI document has aged past 90 days, it’s invalid. Plan your timing carefully. |
| Using an expired DS-4194 fee amount | The DS-4194 form itself has technically expired but is still used. However the fee changed to $20 per document. Using the old $18 fee causes your submission to be returned. |
| Mailing via FedEx Ground or Home | The State Department does not accept FedEx Ground or FedEx Home for returns. Use FedEx Express, UPS, or USPS Priority only. |
Do You Also Need a Certified Translation?
The apostille authenticates your document — it confirms it is genuine. But many non-English-speaking countries also require the document to be translated into their official language before it can be reviewed by their immigration authorities. This is a separate requirement from the apostille, and missing it is just as likely to get your application rejected.
Here is a quick reference for the most common destination countries:
| Country | Language | Translation Required | Notes |
| Portugal | Portuguese | ✅ Always required | AIMA and all consulates require it |
| Brazil | Portuguese | ✅ Always required | Required for all visa and residency types |
| Germany | German | ✅ Always required | Ausländerbehörde requires certified translation |
| France | French | ✅ Always required | Required for long-stay visa and residency |
| Italy | Italian | ✅ Always required | Required for citizenship by descent and residency |
| Spain | Spanish | ⚠️ Check your consulate | Some consulates require it, some do not |
| Colombia | Spanish | ✅ Always required | Required for all migrant visa categories |
| Costa Rica | Spanish | ✅ Always required | One of the strictest enforcement countries |
| Greece | Greek | ✅ Always required | Required for Digital Nomad and Golden Visa |
| Mexico | Spanish | ✅ Always required | INM requires certified Spanish translation |
| UK | — | ❌ Not required | English document accepted directly |
| Australia | — | ❌ Not required | English document accepted directly |
| Canada | — | ❌ Not required | English/French document accepted directly |
MR Fingerprints provides certified translations in Portuguese, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Greek, and other languages — delivered alongside your apostilled document as a complete, submission-ready package. You deal with one provider for the entire chain: fingerprinting, FBI submission, apostille, and translation.
What If Your Country Is Not a Hague Member?
If your destination country is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention — for example the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, or Egypt — a standard apostille is not accepted. These countries require a more complex process called embassy legalization, where the FBI document must first be authenticated by the US Department of State and then additionally stamped by the relevant foreign embassy in Washington DC.
Two important 2026 updates to be aware of: Vietnam and Thailand are both scheduled to join the Hague Convention in September 2026. If you are submitting to either of those countries, confirm the current status with your consulate before proceeding — the requirements may have changed by the time you read this.
China joined the Hague Convention in November 2023 and now accepts federal apostilles. Many older guides and competitor websites still incorrectly list China as requiring embassy legalization — it does not.
Contact MR Fingerprints directly if your destination country is not on the Hague member list. We can confirm the specific requirements and help coordinate the full legalization process.
How MR Fingerprints Handles the Complete Process
Most apostille services require you to already have your FBI document before they can help you. MR Fingerprints is one of the very few providers in the US that handles the entire chain under one roof:
- ✅ Fingerprinting — Live Scan in-person at our downtown Los Angeles location, or our mail-in process (visit your local police station, mail your ink card to us)
- ✅ FBI Identity History Summary — results the same day in most cases
- ✅ Federal apostille coordination — 7-10 business days
- ✅ Certified translation — Portuguese, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Greek, and more
- ✅ All 50 states served — email us your PDF from anywhere in the US
- ✅ Nationwide service — no need to be in Los Angeles for the apostille step
You contact one provider. One process. No coordinating between a fingerprinting service, an apostille company, and a translation agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apostille a PDF copy of my FBI background check, or do I need the original hard copy?
For the US Department of State apostille process, a PDF is fully accepted — and this is actually the fastest and most practical approach. Email MR Fingerprints your PDF and we begin the apostille submission the same day. If you only received a hard copy by mail from the FBI and do not have a digital version, mail it to us via any trackable courier and we will scan and submit on your behalf.
My FBI document says ‘No Record’ — can it still be apostilled?
Yes — and this is actually the most common outcome. A ‘No Record’ result means the FBI found no criminal history associated with your fingerprints. This is a valid, legitimate FBI Identity History Summary and is fully eligible for apostille. Most visa and residency applications specifically require this no-record result, apostilled. The apostille process is identical whether your document shows a record or not.
Can I get the apostille myself without using a service?
Yes — you can submit directly to the US Department of State by mail. Download and complete the DS-4194 form, include a check or money order for $20 per document payable to ‘U.S. Department of State,’ include a prepaid return envelope via FedEx Express or UPS (not FedEx Ground), and mail everything to: Office of Authentications, US Department of State, 44132 Mercure Circle, PO Box 1206, Sterling, VA 20166-1206. Standard processing is 6–8 weeks. Using a service like MR Fingerprints eliminates the form preparation errors that commonly delay self-submissions and enables expedited processing through our DC partner.
I need apostilles for both myself and my spouse — do we each need separate documents?
Yes. Each applicant needs their own separate FBI Identity History Summary, their own apostille, and if required, their own certified translation. Apostilles are issued per document per individual — there is no combined or family apostille. If both of you need the complete package, contact MR Fingerprints and we will process both simultaneously to save time.
How do I know if my country needs an apostille or embassy legalization?
If your destination country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention — which covers 129 countries as of 2026 including almost all of Europe, Latin America, and much of Asia-Pacific — you need an apostille. If it is not a Hague member — UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, and others — you need embassy legalization. MR Fingerprints’ apostille service landing page has a full breakdown of which countries require which process. When in doubt, contact us and we will confirm for your specific destination.
Does MR Fingerprints serve clients outside of California?
Yes — all 50 states. You start the apostille coordination online. Email us your FBI document as a PDF from anywhere in the United States and we handle the submission to the State Department, the return delivery, and the certified translation if needed. You never need to come to Los Angeles for the apostille step. Our downtown Los Angeles location is available for in-person Live Scan fingerprinting if you need that step as well.
Ready to Get Your FBI Apostille?
The apostille process is completely manageable when you have the right information — and significantly faster when you have a provider handling the State Department submission for you. MR Fingerprints processes apostilles for clients in all 50 states in 7-10 business days.
If you already have your FBI document: email it to us as a PDF and we begin your apostille the same day.
If you still need your FBI document: contact us and we handle everything from fingerprinting through apostille delivery.
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