Ensuring that your FBI Criminal Record Check (CRC)—also referred to as an FBI Identity History Summary (RAP Sheet)—is properly translated and apostilled (or otherwise authenticated) can be pivotal when applying for international visas, residencies, employment, or study opportunities. Each country enforces its own regulations regarding document acceptance, and failing to comply can lead to delays or denials of your application.
This guide explains which countries commonly require FBI CRC translations, why these translations matter, and how to verify your documents for international use. Our aim is to help you navigate the often confusing world of global document requirements with clarity and confidence.
An FBI Criminal Record Check is an official document issued by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that verifies an individual’s criminal history (or absence of one) within the United States. Although valid in the U.S., foreign authorities typically insist on translated and apostilled versions to ensure legal acceptance in their jurisdictions.
Below is an overview of countries/regions where an FBI CRC—translated into the local language and often apostilled—is frequently requested as part of visa, residence, or work-related applications.
Required for work visas, residency, and citizenship applications.
Essential for permanent residency.
Often requested for employment and long-term residency permits.
Needed for work visas and citizenship.
Important for long-term visas and certain business permits.
Required for residency and work visa applications.
Used in work, student, and residency visa processes.
Key requirement for residency and immigration proceedings.
Required for foreign workers and residency applications.
Often necessary for work and business visas.
Essential for residency permits.
Required for work permits and immigration.
Needed for visa and certain employment processes.
Often required for employment and visa applications.
Used for work permits, residency, and even citizenship.
Mandatory for work, student, and business visas.
Required for long-term stays and employment.
Necessary for work visas and permanent residency.
A must for Golden Visa programs and general immigration applications.
Often needed for residence and work permits.
Common for visa applications and employment background checks.
Required for work permits (Z visas) and residency.
Key for long-term visas and employment.
Necessary for visa and work verification.
Required for employment permits and extended stays.
Often requested for work visas and business purposes.
Used for employment and long-term visa applications.
Required for residency and long-term employment permits.
Often mandatory for work-related documentation.
Essential for work visas and business permits.
A must for residency and employment applications.
Frequently requested for work, residence, and business permits.
Required for certain work visas and residency.
Needed for work permits, visa applications, and even citizenship processes.
Follow these four steps to ensure your FBI CRC meets international compliance:
1. Request an FBI CRC online or through an FBI-approved Channeler. 2. Make sure you receive a certified copy before moving on to translation.
1. Translate the document into the official language of the country where it will be submitted. 2. Many countries require certified translations, meaning the translator or translation agency must be officially accredited.
In most cases, the translated version must be notarized before it’s eligible for apostille certification.
1. Since the FBI CRC is a federal document, it must generally be authenticated by the U.S. Department of State. 2. An apostille certifies the document’s authenticity for use in Hague Convention countries. 3. For non-Hague countries, additional steps (such as embassy or consulate legalization) may be required.
Official Reference: For detailed guidance on apostilles and authentications, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Apostille Requirements page.
Most countries demand certified translations from professional, accredited translators or agencies.
Yes. You can request multiple translations into different languages. However, each translation generally must be separately notarized and apostilled.
Ensuring your FBI Criminal Record Check is correctly translated and apostilled is critical for visa, employment, and residency applications worldwide. At My Visa and Apostille, we provide fast, reliable, certified translations that meet international standards—giving you peace of mind and a smooth path toward your global goals.
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Don’t let document requirements hold up your international plans. My Visa and Apostille stands ready to guide you, ensuring your FBI Criminal Record Check is correctly translated and apostilled—a critical step for work permits, visa applications, and residency procedures abroad. Trust us to remove the guesswork, so you can focus on what matters most: Your next adventure.
