FBI Apostille Explained: What It Is and Why You Need It

1. Introduction If you’re applying for a visa, working overseas, or seeking dual citizenship, chances are you’ll be asked for an FBI background check—and often, it must be apostilled to be valid in another country. But what exactly is an FBI apostille, and why is it essential for international document recognition? This guide explains what […]
How Long Does It Take to Get an FBI Apostille in 2025?

1. Introduction If you’re preparing documents for international use—like a visa, job offer, adoption, or citizenship—you may need an FBI background check with an apostille. But how long does the process take, especially in 2025? Processing times for FBI apostilles can vary depending on how you submit your documents, the method you choose, and whether […]
What Documents Require an FBI Apostille? Complete Guide for International Use

1. Introduction When preparing to live, work, or study abroad, one essential document often requested is your FBI background check. But providing this report alone is not always enough. Many countries require that it be validated for international use through an apostille. This blog breaks down which documents need an FBI apostille, why it’s important, […]
What’s the Difference Between an FBI Apostille and Authentication?

1. Introduction Whether you’re applying for a visa, foreign job, school, or adoption, you may be asked to submit an FBI background check. But what comes next can be confusing: do you need an apostille or authentication? While both processes verify your FBI background report for international use, they are not the same thing and […]
What Documents Require an FBI Apostille?

1. Introduction When dealing with legal procedures in a foreign country—such as immigration, employment, or adoption—you may be asked to submit certain official documents. If these include your criminal history, you’ll likely need an FBI background check. But to make that document valid for international use, you also need an apostille. But which documents require […]
How Long Does It Take to Get an FBI Apostille in 2025?

1. Introduction If you’re applying for a visa, job, or dual citizenship abroad, one essential step may be obtaining an FBI apostille. But how long does it take in 2025? With changes in processing times, digital documents, and agency backlogs, the timeline can vary significantly. This blog outlines exactly how long an FBI apostille takes, […]
How to Get an Apostille for an FBI Background Check

1. Introduction Whether you’re teaching English in South Korea, applying for permanent residency in Spain, or adopting a child from Colombia, you’ll likely need an apostille for your FBI background check. Unfortunately, many people get overwhelmed by the process — between navigating the FBI portal, working with the U.S. Department of State, and verifying if […]
FBI Apostille Explained: What It Is and Why You Need It

1. Introduction If you’re moving abroad, applying for dual citizenship, or starting a job in another country, you’ve probably heard the term “FBI Apostille.” But what is it, exactly? And why is it so important? In this guide, we’ll break down what an FBI Apostille is, why it matters in 2025, and how PDX Fingerprinting […]
Is FBI Fingerprinting Safe? Data Security and Privacy You Can Trust

Introduction In an age of growing data breaches and identity theft, the idea of sharing your biometric data—like fingerprints—can feel unsettling. When you see a fingerprint card or digital scan going to the FBI, you might wonder: “Is FBI fingerprinting safe? What safeguards are in place to protect my privacy?” At PDX Fingerprinting, safeguarding your […]
How to Read and Understand an FBI Fingerprint Report

Introduction Receiving your FBI fingerprint report can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the format, codes, and definitions. What does a “RAP sheet”, a “record hit,” or “no record” really mean? At PDX Fingerprinting, we help clients interpret their FBI background check results, clarifying what each component means for employment, licensing, or immigration purposes. […]