3 minute read
You’d be surprised how often life takes people overseas. One week you’re teaching in Atlanta, the next you’re offered a contract in Dubai. Or maybe your child just got accepted into a university in Spain. That’s when the request comes: “We need your FBI background check, apostilled.”
Why Families and Professionals Call Us
In Duluth, I recently helped a father whose son landed a job teaching English in South Korea. He had the FBI background check in hand, but no idea what an apostille even was. Another client in Marietta was rushing to meet a deadline after her employer in Canada gave her 10 days to submit legalized paperwork. These are everyday people, not attorneys or government workers. They just need their paperwork handled quickly and correctly.
What an Apostille Really Does
Think of an apostille as the passport for your FBI background check. Without it, foreign embassies and employers simply won’t recognize the document. With it, doors open. It’s not about red tape, it’s about making sure you can start that job, enroll in that program, or secure that visa without being turned away. Just like marriage certificates in Georgia require an apostille through the GSCCCA, FBI background checks require federal authentication through the U.S. Department of State.
How We Step In
At Elite Notary Signing, families across Atlanta, Alpharetta, Decatur, and Buckhead lean on us to take care of the details:
-
Reviewing your background check (paper or digital copy).
-
Preparing the paperwork for the U.S. Department of State.
-
Ensuring the apostille is accepted abroad.
Real People, Real Results
One mom in Decatur told me, “I had no clue where to start. You not only explained it, you made sure I didn’t miss my son’s first day of school overseas.” That’s why we do this work.
FAQ: Common Questions About FBI Background Check Apostilles
How do I get my FBI background check apostilled in Atlanta?
Start by requesting your background check directly from the FBI. Once you receive it, the apostille must be issued by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. Elite Notary Signing helps Atlanta families and professionals prepare and submit documents correctly so nothing is delayed.
Do I need to get my FBI background check notarized before sending it in?
No. Since it is a federal document, it goes directly to the U.S. Department of State for apostille. You do not need a local notary.
Can I use the PDF version that was emailed to me?
Yes. The printed PDF is valid, but make sure the watermark is clearly visible. Some printers may fade it, which can cause issues.
Who issues the apostille for an FBI background check?
The apostille is issued by the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Authentications in Washington, D.C. State offices, like GSCCCA in Georgia, only handle vital records such as birth or marriage certificates.
How long does the apostille process take?
Standard processing through the U.S. Department of State can take up to 3 weeks. Expedited services, including walk-ins, can shorten the timeline.
Ready When You Are
If you’ve been told to get your FBI background check apostilled, don’t panic. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Call 464-333-1638 from notary support or 470-315-9908 for apostille services.
We’ll handle the details so you can focus on the opportunity in front of you.
Add comment
Comments