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Can a Digital FBI Background Check Be Apostilled Without Printing It?
Yes. A digitally issued FBI Background Check can be submitted for apostille processing without printing it, provided the document meets the authentication requirements. Applicants who receive their FBI Identity History Summary electronically can use the digital file for FBI Express's submission process. The original PDF must be uploaded as received; printing and scanning the document can compromise the file's authenticity and make it unsuitable for this process.
For international use, the U.S. Department of State authenticates qualifying federal documents and issues apostilles when required. The correct procedure depends on the document format and the destination country's requirements.
Can You Apostille an FBI Background Check PDF?
Yes. FBI Express accepts digital FBI Background Check files obtained directly from the FBI or through an FBI-approved channeler. The original electronic file must be submitted without printing, scanning, or altering it.
It is important to distinguish a digital FBI report from an electronic apostille. A digital report is the background check received electronically, while an apostille is the authentication certificate issued by the competent authority. FBI Express's digital submission service processes qualifying reports for a physical apostille through the U.S. Department of State.
Why Use FBI Express for Digital FBI Apostille Processing?
Digital submission: Upload the original FBI report without printing or scanning it.
Expedited processing: Documents are submitted through FBI Express's expedited service.
Transparent pricing: The published processing cost is $99, excluding optional return shipping.
Document handling: The service coordinates submission to the U.S. Department of State and return delivery.
An apostille does not guarantee acceptance for every international application. Applicants should verify whether the destination authority requires an apostille, traditional legalization, a translation, or additional documentation.
The Digital FBI Background Check Apostille Process
- 1
Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check
Request your FBI Identity History Summary directly from the FBI or through an FBI-approved channeler. Select the electronic delivery option when available.
- 2
Step 2: Upload the Original PDF
Upload the exact digital file received from the FBI or approved channeler through the FBI Express website. Do not print, scan, or modify the original document.
- 3
Step 3: FBI Express Submits the Document
FBI Express submits the eligible report to the U.S. Department of State for apostille processing. The document must satisfy the applicable federal authentication requirements.
- 4
Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check
Request your FBI Identity History Summary directly from the FBI or through an FBI-approved channeler. Select the electronic delivery option when available.
Digital FBI Background Check Apostille Pricing
FBI Express provides a clear, flat-rate pricing structure with no hidden fees:
U.S. Department of State Fee: $20
Expedited Processing Fee: $79
Total Cost: $99 — no hidden fees, no surprises
Return Shipping Options:
Upload your own prepaid FedEx or UPS return label for free
2-Day FedEx Return: $20
Next-Day Priority FedEx Return: $30
Our expedited service ensures your apostilled document is processed and returned as quickly as possible, ideal for tight visa deadlines or urgent international requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upload my FBI Background Check as a PDF?
Yes. FBI Express accepts eligible digital FBI Background Check files. Upload the exact original PDF received from the FBI or an FBI-approved channeler without printing, scanning, or modifying it.
Can I print my digital FBI Background Check before submitting it?
Not for FBI Express's digital-file submission process. The service requires the original electronic file. Printing and scanning creates a different file that may not meet the submission requirements.
How much does a digital FBI Background Check apostille cost?
FBI Express lists a total processing cost of $99, comprising a $20 U.S. Department of State fee and a $79 expedited processing fee. Optional return shipping costs extra.
Is a digital FBI Background Check apostille the same as an electronic apostille?
No. A digital FBI Background Check is the electronically delivered report. An apostille is the authentication certificate issued by the competent authority. FBI Express's digital-file service uses the electronic report to obtain an apostille through the U.S. Department of State.
Can I use an apostilled FBI Background Check in any country?
Acceptance depends on the destination country's requirements and the purpose of the application. Countries covered by the Hague Apostille Convention generally use apostilles for qualifying public documents, while other destinations may require traditional authentication and embassy legalization.
Submitting the original digital FBI Background Check and confirming the destination country's authentication requirements can help prevent avoidable delays in preparing documents for international use.