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FBI Background Check vs. State Criminal Background Check for International Use
An FBI Background Check and a state criminal background check are different types of criminal history records. The correct document for international use depends on the requirements of the foreign embassy, immigration authority, employer, or other organization receiving it. Some applications require a federal FBI Identity History Summary, while others request a state-issued record or additional documentation.
Before requesting an apostille, applicants should confirm which background check is required and whether the destination country requires an apostille or embassy legalization.
What Is the Difference Between an FBI and a State Background Check?
An FBI Background Check is issued through the FBI's Identity History Summary process and is based on fingerprint submissions. A state criminal background check is obtained from a state agency or other authorized state-level source and generally focuses on records maintained or reported within that state's system.
Feature | FBI Background Check | State Background Check |
|---|---|---|
Issuing authority | Federal Bureau of Investigation | State police or designated state agency |
Record scope | Federal and participating state criminal history information | Records available through the relevant state system |
Common use | International visa, residency, and other applications when an FBI report is required | Applications specifically requiring a state-level record |
Authentication route | U.S. Department of State for qualifying federal documents | Usually the relevant state authentication authority, depending on the document |
International acceptance | Depends on the receiving authority's requirements | Depends on the receiving authority's requirements |
Which Background Check Do You Need for International Use?
The receiving authority determines which background check is acceptable. An FBI report should not automatically be substituted for a state record, or vice versa.
Before ordering a background check, confirm:
Whether the application requires an FBI Identity History Summary, a state criminal record, or both.
Whether the document must be issued within a specified period.
Whether an apostille or traditional embassy legalization is required.
Whether the report needs a certified translation or additional documentation.
The U.S. Department of State provides guidance on criminal record checks for international use.
FBI Background Check Apostille Process with FBI Express
- 1
Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check
Request your FBI Identity History Summary directly from the FBI or through an FBI-approved channeler.
- 2
Step 2: Upload Your Original Digital Report
Submit the exact digital file received from the FBI or approved channeler through FBI Express. Do not print or scan the original PDF for this digital submission process.
- 3
Step 3: Submit the Report for Apostille Processing
FBI Express submits the eligible federal document to the U.S. Department of State for apostille processing.
- 4
Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check
Request your FBI Identity History Summary directly from the FBI or through an FBI-approved channeler.
Expedited 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
Is an FBI Background Check the same as a state criminal background check?
No. An FBI Identity History Summary is a federal record based on fingerprint submissions, while a state background check is obtained through a state-level agency or authorized source. Their scope and intended uses can differ.
Is an FBI Background Check better than a state background check for international use?
Neither is universally preferable. The correct document depends on the requirements of the embassy, immigration authority, employer, or other receiving organization.
Can a state background check receive an apostille?
A state-issued criminal record may qualify for authentication, but the required procedure depends on the issuing authority and document format. The relevant state authentication office should confirm the requirements.
Does an FBI Background Check require a U.S. Department of State apostille?
When an apostille is required for a qualifying FBI background check intended for use in a country covered by the Hague Apostille Convention, the U.S. Department of State is the competent authority for federal-document apostilles. Other destinations may require traditional authentication and embassy legalization.
How much does an FBI Background Check apostille cost through FBI Express?
The published expedited processing price is $99, consisting of a $20 U.S. Department of State fee and a $79 FBI Express processing fee. Optional return shipping costs extra.
Confirming the required background check and authentication route before beginning the process helps ensure that the final document is prepared for its intended international use.