If you are planning to live, work, or spend an extended period abroad, you may be asked to provide an FBI background check at some point in the process. It is one of those documents that surprises many travelers the first time they encounter it, yet it plays a critical role in visas, long-term stays, and international applications.
Understanding what it is and why it is required can save time and prevent last-minute delays.
What Is an FBI Background Check?
An FBI background check, officially called an Identity History Summary, is a federal record based on fingerprint data. It reflects any criminal history associated with an individual in the FBI’s national database, including arrests and case outcomes reported by law enforcement agencies across the United States.
Unlike name-based checks, which can return incomplete or inaccurate results, an FBI background check is fingerprint-based. That is why it is considered one of the most reliable forms of criminal record verification and why foreign governments and international institutions often require it.
Why Is It Required for International Travel and Living Abroad?
For short trips, an FBI background check is rarely necessary. The document usually comes into play when travel crosses into residency, employment, or long-term relocation.
Common situations include:
Visa and residency applications
Many countries require a criminal background check as part of long-term visa or residency applications. This is especially common for work visas, digital nomad visas, retirement visas, and permanent residency programs.
Employment overseas
Teaching, healthcare, government contracting, and other regulated professions often require background checks before employment contracts are finalized.
International adoption
Prospective adoptive parents are typically required to submit FBI background checks as part of the adoption dossier and home study process.
Professional licensing
Certain licenses, both domestic and international, require background verification as a condition of approval.
In short, the more official and long-term your plans abroad become, the more likely this document will be requested.
How Do You Obtain an FBI Background Check?
The process starts with submitting fingerprints to the FBI. This can be done either by mailing fingerprint cards directly to the FBI or by using an FBI-approved channeler that submits prints electronically.
Direct submissions are often slower, with processing times that can stretch into several weeks or longer depending on volume. Travelers working against visa deadlines often find this timeline challenging.
Because of that, many people choose to work with experienced service providers who handle fingerprint submission and follow-up on their behalf.
When Does an Apostille Come Into Play?
In many cases, the FBI background check alone is not sufficient. Most countries require the document to be apostilled, which is a form of international certification that confirms the document is authentic and issued by the appropriate authority.
The apostille for an FBI background check is issued by the U.S. Department of State, not a state-level office. This distinction is important and often misunderstood by first-time applicants.
Countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention accept apostilled documents directly. Non-Hague countries may require additional embassy or consular legalization instead.
Common Issues Travelers Encounter
Based on reports from apostille and document authentication professionals, the most frequent problems include:
• Submitting fingerprints that are rejected for poor quality
• Using the wrong apostille authority
• Not allowing enough time for processing
• Assuming all countries have the same requirements
These issues can lead to delays that impact visa appointments, job start dates, or relocation plans.
Working With Specialized Providers
For travelers on tight timelines, some choose to work with specialists who regularly handle FBI background checks and apostilles. Providers such as Federal Apostille assist with fingerprint submission through approved channelers and coordinate the apostille or authentication process for international use.
While not required, working with experienced professionals can reduce administrative errors and help ensure documents meet the specific requirements of the destination country.
Final Thoughts
An FBI background check is a routine document in international travel and relocation, but it is often unfamiliar to first-time applicants. Knowing when it is required, how it is obtained, and whether an apostille is needed can make the process far less stressful.
If your travel plans involve long-term stays, overseas employment, or residency applications, understanding this document early can prevent delays and keep your plans on track.
