What is an Apostille?

• ​An authentication or apostille certifies the authenticity of the signature, seal, and position of the official who has executed, issued or certified a copy of a public document. Apostilles are strictly for the use of public documents abroad!

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Why do I need an Apostille?

• The object of the Apostille is to "abolish the requirement of diplomatic or consular legalization for foreign public documents". The completed Apostille certifies the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the person signing the document has acted, and identifies the seal/stamp which the document bears.

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What does an Apostille do for me?

• An Apostille is required for legal transactions where a document from one country must be presented in another country as part of a legal process. This involves many business transactions and individual transactions. For example, situations to settle the estate of a deceased person with assets overseas, applying for visas, and positions for employment.. Some of the most common documents requiring legalization with an Apostille are Power of Attorney, Passports, Birth, Marriage and Death Certificates, criminal background checks, bank accounts, etc.. The requirement of an Apostille protects you, and the potential risk of being defrauded.

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Does an Apostille require a Language Translation?

• Unless otherwise specified, it is recommended you obtain both a translation of an apostilled document and a certified translation of the apostille certificate. Lisa's Atlanta Mobile Apostille & Notary provides translation for an Apostilled document and a certified translation of your Apostille certificates.

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Certified vs. Non-Certified Translation

• Not all languages have a certification exam, and not all countries or projects require translators to be certified. By contrast, a “certified translation” is the signed statement verifying translation accuracy.

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FBI Background Check

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What is an FBI Background Check?

• An FBI background check, also known as an Identity History Summary Check, is an official federal document issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It contains information about a person’s criminal history based on fingerprint records submitted to the FBI.

• Many foreign governments, employers, immigration offices, and educational institutions require this document to verify an individual’s identity and criminal background before approving applications or granting legal status abroad.

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​​Why Is an Apostille Needed for an FBI Background Check?

• If your FBI background check will be used in a foreign country that participates in the Hague Apostille Convention, the document must typically receive an apostille from the U.S. Department of State before it is considered valid internationally.

• An apostille certifies the authenticity of the federal document so it can be legally recognized in another country.

• Countries commonly requiring apostilled FBI background checks include:

  • Spain

  • Italy

  • Mexico

  • Colombia

  • France

  • Germany

  • South Korea

  • Portugal

  • Costa Rica

  • Dominican Republic

  • And many more

• If the destination country is not part of the Hague Convention, additional embassy or consulate legalization may be required.

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Common Reasons You May Need an FBI Background Check Apostille​

Individuals frequently request apostilled FBI background checks for:

• International employment opportunities

• Teaching English abroad

• Foreign residency or immigration applications

• Student visas

• International adoption

• Marriage abroad

• Dual citizenship applications

• Overseas business licensing

• Long-term travel or relocation

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Atlanta Mobile Notary & Apostille Service helps clients navigate the entire process quickly and accurately to avoid delays or rejected documents.

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