How to Obtain an FBI Apostille for Spain Residency

If you're planning to move to Spain, whether for work, a non-lucrative visa, or dual citizenship, an FBI background check with an apostille is an essential requirement. This guide explains the step-by-step process to secure an apostille for your FBI background check and other key documents needed for Spain residency.

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What is an Apostille?

An apostille authenticates the seals and signatures on public documents, making them legally valid in foreign countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, including Spain. For U.S. documents, the U.S. Department of State issues apostilles for federally certified records like FBI background checks.

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Why Do You Need an FBI Apostille for Spain?

Spain requires an FBI criminal background check with a federal apostille for residency applications. The FBI report must:

• Be issued within 90 days of your visa application date.
• Include a federal apostille to verify authenticity.

Without the apostille, the document will not be recognized by Spanish authorities.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an FBI Apostille for Spain

1. Request Your FBI Background Check

• Fingerprinting: Visit an FBI-approved channeler to have your fingerprints taken. For a list of approved channelers, visit the FBI’s official site.
• Submit Your Request: Apply for your FBI background check through the approved channeler or directly via the FBI’s Identity History Summary Checks page. Learn more on how to obtain an FBI report from our detailed guide at DC Mobile Blog.
• Receive Results: The FBI will send the background check via email (PDF) and postal mail (hard copy).

2. Obtain the Apostille

• Send Your Background Check: Submit the FBI-issued background check to the U.S. Department of State for apostille processing.
• Processing Time: Federal apostille requests may take several weeks, so plan accordingly.

3. Translate Documents into Spanish

All documents, including the FBI background check, must be officially translated into Spanish. Consider using a certified translator to avoid delays.

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Additional Documents Needed for Spain Residency

Apart from the FBI background check, you’ll need the following:

1. Visa Application Form: Obtainable online or at the Spanish Consulate.
2. Valid Passport: Must be unexpired with at least one year of validity.
3. Passport Photos: Three recent, color photos with a white background.
4. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, pension documents, or proof of regular income.
5. Medical Certificate: Issued within 90 days, confirming no public health risks.
6. Health Insurance: Private health insurance valid in Spain with no copay.
7. Marriage Certificate: If applicable, with an apostille and translation.
8. Birth Certificate for Minors: With an apostille and translation.

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Benefits of Professional Apostille Services

Navigating the apostille process can be overwhelming. DC Mobile Notary simplifies the process by:

• Ensuring your FBI background check is properly apostilled.
• Offering translation services for all required documents.
• Providing fast, reliable service to meet visa deadlines.

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Why Choose DC Mobile Notary?

With years of experience, DC Mobile Notary specializes in:

• Apostille services for FBI background checks and state-issued documents.
• Translation services for Spanish visa applications.
• Reliable and timely document handling.

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Get Started Today

Don’t let paperwork slow you down. Let DC Mobile Notary handle your apostille needs for Spain residency. Visit our Apostille Services Page, or contact us at 202-247-0837 or support@dcmobilenotary.com for expert assistance.

With DC Mobile Notary, you can focus on your move while we handle the rest!

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