How to Obtain and Apostille an FBI Background Check for a Portuguese Visa
Complete step-by-step guide for 2025. Expert insights and practical guidance on obtaining and apostilling FBI background checks for Portuguese visa applications from experienced visa professionals.
🏛️ Why You Need an FBI Background Check
If you're applying for a Portuguese residence visa, you must provide a Criminal Record Certificate. Portuguese authorities require an Apostilled FBI background check to be valid internationally for your visa application.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every step of obtaining your FBI Background Check and securing the Hague apostille stamp in the USA to streamline your Portuguese visa application process. While this process typically takes 8-11 weeks, we'll also show you how to optimize your timeline.
🔍 Step 1: Obtain Your FBI Background Check
The first step in your Portuguese visa application is securing your FBI background check. This official document verifies your criminal history (or lack thereof) and is required by Portuguese immigration authorities.
Submit Your Application to the FBI
Begin by visiting the FBI's Identity History Summary Check webpage. You have two options for submitting your application:
- Online application: Complete the digital form on the FBI website
- Mail submission: Download and mail the physical application form
Provide Your Fingerprints
Your fingerprints are required for the background check process. You can submit them through:
- Electronic fingerprinting service: Use an authorized location near you
- Fingerprint card: Submit a physical card by mail
Detailed instructions on submitting fingerprints can be found on the FBI's official website.
Receive Your Background Check
The FBI will send your Identity History Summary report either electronically (PDF format) or by mail, depending on your submission method and preferences.
📄 Step 2: Prepare the Document for Apostille
Once you receive your FBI background check, it must be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State to be recognized by Portuguese authorities.
Print the Background Check
If you received your background check electronically, you must print a physical copy for the apostille process.
⚠️ Important: The U.S. Department of State requires a physical document for apostille purposes. Electronic copies cannot be apostilled.
Complete the Application for Apostille
Download and complete Form DS-4194 from the U.S. Department of State. This form is required for all apostille requests.
📋 You can find the DS-4194 Form on the official U.S. Department of State website.
Prepare Your Submission Package
Your apostille submission package must include:
- The printed FBI background check
- The completed DS-4194 form
- Payment for the apostille fee (check current fee structure on the State Department website)
💡 Pro Tip: Ensure all documents are complete and legible before mailing. Incomplete submissions will delay your processing time.
📮 Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Mail Your Package
Send your complete package to the Office of Authentications at the U.S. Department of State:
Mailing Address:
U.S. Department of StateOffice of Authentications
CA/PPT/S/TO/AUT
44132 Mercure Circle
PO Box 1206
Sterling, VA 20166-1206
Track Your Submission
Use tracking services when mailing your documents for peace of mind. Processing times can take several weeks, so tracking helps you monitor the progress of your submission.
✅ Step 4: Receive Your Apostille
After processing, the U.S. Department of State will mail back your apostilled FBI background check. This document is now officially recognized by Portuguese authorities for your visa application.
⏱️ Processing Time: The apostille process typically takes 8-11 weeks. Plan accordingly for your Portuguese visa application timeline.
💡 Through our trusted partners, we can recommend official expedited services to help fast-track your application when time is critical.
🔗 Official Resources
For the most current information and official forms, refer to these government resources:
- FBI Background Check Application Guide
- U.S. Department of State Apostille Requirements Overview
- DS-4194 Form (Official PDF)
🆘 Need Professional Assistance?
Navigating the Portuguese visa application process can be complex. If you need assistance with your Portuguese visa application, don't hesitate to contact us.
At GetFastVisa, we have hundreds of successful Portuguese visa cases and can guide you through every step of the visa process, including document preparation and apostille requirements. Our experienced team ensures your application is properly prepared and submitted efficiently.
⚖️ Non-Clean FBI History? We can help with that too.
Even if your FBI background check shows entries, this doesn't automatically disqualify you. We've successfully helped clients navigate these situations with Portuguese authorities, providing proper context and documentation support.
🌍 Outside the U.S.? No problem.
Not currently in the United States? We can help coordinate your FBI background check process remotely, guiding you through alternative methods and trusted service providers to ensure you get the documents you need for your Portuguese visa application.
Ready to Start Your Portuguese Visa Application?
Our comprehensive visa services include:
- Document preparation and review
- Apostille guidance and assistance
- Expedited processing through trusted partners
- FBI history documentation support
- Visa application submission
- Timeline management and tracking
About This Guide
This comprehensive guide examines the process of obtaining and apostilling FBI background checks for Portuguese visa applications in 2025. Information is current as of July 2025. For personalized assistance with your specific case, contact our experienced visa team at GetFastVisa.
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Guilherme Lima
Founder & CEO
Guilherme is the founder and CEO of GetFastVisa, with extensive experience helping thousands of clients navigate the Portuguese visa application process. Through his company, he has streamlined visa services and appointment booking, making Portugal relocation more accessible for digital nomads and entrepreneurs worldwide.
