Can my state apostille the FBI check?

No. The FBI check is a federal document; only the US Department of State can apostille it.

Do I need a state police check too?

Spanish consulates typically ask for the FBI check; some have asked for state checks in the past. Check your consulate's page.

Does my spouse need an FBI check?

Adult family members included in the application are generally asked for their own criminal record certificate.

How do I get an FBI background check apostilled for a Spanish visa?

Updated 2026-11-12 · Documents guide · Not legal advice

Request an FBI Identity History Summary, then send it to the US Department of State Office of Authentications for an apostille (it is a federal document, so a state Secretary of State cannot apostille it), and finally have it translated by a Spanish sworn translator. Spain asks for criminal records from every country you lived in during the last 2 years.

FBI check for Spain: step by step
Step	Who	Watch out for
1. Request the Identity History Summary	FBI (online or through an approved channeler)	Use your full legal name as on your passport
2. Apostille	US Department of State, Office of Authentications	Check the current submission method and fee on the State Department site
3. Sworn translation	Spanish sworn translator	Translate the check and the apostille
4. Submit	Consulate or UGE	Must still be within the validity window your consulate sets

Timing is the hard part

Consulates count validity from the date the certificate was issued, and the window differs by consulate and route. Check your consulate's page, then plan backwards from your appointment so the check, apostille and translation all fit inside it.

Lived somewhere else recently?

If you lived in another country in the last 2 years, you also need that country's criminal record certificate, legalised or apostilled under its own rules.

Quick answers

How long is an FBI background check valid for a Spanish visa?: It depends on the consulate and route. Check your consulate's page before ordering.
Can my state apostille the FBI check?: No. The FBI check is a federal document; only the US Department of State can apostille it.
Do I need a state police check too?: Spanish consulates typically ask for the FBI check; some have asked for state checks in the past. Check your consulate's page.
Does my spouse need an FBI check?: Adult family members included in the application are generally asked for their own criminal record certificate.

What to do next

Get a dated checklist so the FBI check doesn't expire before your appointment.

Generate my document checklist

Sources

Checked: 2026-11-12. Rules change; confirm current values on the official pages above before you file.