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FBI Background Check Apostille vs. Embassy Legalization

When preparing documents for international use, one of the most common questions is whether you need an apostille or embassy legalization. Both processes authenticate your FBI background check, but the correct option depends on the country where you plan to use it. Understanding the difference will save you time, money, and stress.
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What Is an Apostille?

An apostille is a certification issued by the U.S. Department of State that validates your document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. If you’re moving abroad, applying for a visa, or pursuing work opportunities, an FBI background check apostille is usually sufficient if your destination country is part of the convention.

What Is Embassy Legalization?

Embassy legalization applies when your destination country is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention. In these cases, your FBI background check must first be authenticated by the U.S. Department of State, then further legalized at the foreign embassy or consulate.

Key Differences Between Apostille and Embassy Legalization

Aspect

Apostille

Embassy Legalization

Applicable Countries

Hague Convention members

Non-Hague countries

Authority Involved

U.S. Department of State

U.S. Department of State + Embassy

Processing Time

Faster (about 2–3 weeks)

Longer (3–6 weeks or more)

Cost

Lower

Higher

Steps Required

One-step authentication

Multi-step authentication

Which Do You Need for Your FBI Background Check?

Choosing between an apostille and embassy legalization depends entirely on your destination country. For example, if you’re preparing to teach abroad, you’ll often need an FBI background check as part of your application. Countries that belong to the Hague Convention accept apostilles, while others require legalization through their embassy. You can explore more about requirements for educators in our guide on FBI background checks for teaching English overseas.


Process for Embassy Legalization of FBI Background Check

  1. 1 Obtain your FBI background check.
  2. 2 Submit it to the U.S. Department of State for authentication.
  3. 3 Once authenticated, send the document to the embassy or consulate of your destination country.
  4. 4 Obtain your FBI background check.
  5. 5 Your FBI background check is now valid for use in that non-Hague country.

Apostille and Embassy Legalization Service Pricing

  • FBI Background Check Apostille (Hague countries): $99 total

  • Embassy Legalization (non-Hague countries): Custom pricing based on embassy fees

  • Return shipping options:

    • Upload your FedEx/UPS label: Free

    • FedEx 2-day: $20

    • FedEx next-day: $30

Why Choose FBI Express?

Whether you require an apostille or embassy legalization, accuracy and speed matter. Customers rely on our expertise because we minimize errors, reduce delays, and handle sensitive documents with care. It’s one of the many reasons why so many choose us when comparing options for document authentication, as explained in our article on why FBI Express is the best choice.


Apostille vs. Embassy Legalization: Making the Right Choice

If your destination country is a Hague member, an apostille is all you need. For non-Hague countries, embassy legalization is mandatory. Knowing the difference ensures your FBI background check is properly authenticated and accepted abroad.

With FBI Express, you’ll get a fast, secure, and reliable service—whether your journey requires a simple apostille or full embassy legalization.