How to Obtain Your FBI Background Check

Hi! I know, the FBI website is genuinely confusing, especially the first time you use it (and honestly, even after that).

This applies to anyone in the U.S. +18 years old, regardless of the state you’re in, because for Spanish immigration procedures the document that is required is the federal FBI background check (FBI Identity History Summary) — not a state or local criminal record certificate. That distinction is critical.

As a reminder, the main issue with the FBI background check is not the document itself, but getting the federal apostille. The apostille must be requested at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., which only processes these requests one day per week. After that, the document must also be officially translated into Spanish.

Timing really matters here. If the FBI background check expires, the apostille and the sworn translation expire with it, since both depend on the validity of the original document. This is why planning the sequence properly is essential.

Regarding validity, the law generally refers to a 3-month validity period, although in practice some immigration offices may accept up to 6 months in specific cases (for example, this sometimes happens with the Digital Nomad Visa). Even so, at the firm we always work on the basis of the 3-month rule to minimize risk and avoid delays or additional requests.

Step 1: Register Online with the FBI (Electronic Option)

Go to the official FBI portal for Identity History Summary Checks:
https://www.edo.cjis.gov

When you enter this page, you will see a section titled “Obtaining Your Identity History Summary”, with an explanation of what the report is and how it is used. On that page, click the “Learn More” button. This is the correct place to start the electronic application.

After clicking “Learn More,” you will be guided into the FBI’s Electronic Departmental Order (eDO) system. From there:

• Enter your email address to begin the process.

• The FBI will immediately send you an email containing:

  • A secure link

  • A PIN number

• Open that email and click the secure link.

• Use the PIN when prompted to access your application.

Once inside the application:

• Fill in your personal information exactly as it appears on your ID.

• Choose the electronic submission option.

• Pay the FBI processing fee of $18 online.

Important:
Please save the FBI email carefully. It contains your barcode and PIN, which you will need later to:

• Submit your fingerprints

• Access and download your final report.

Do not delete this email.

Step 2: Submit Your Fingerprints

You have two options to submit fingerprints. The most common and fastest option is through USPS.

After completing your FBI application, you will receive another email, this time from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).

This email includes a link to USPS Fingerprinting Services and allows you to locate participating Post Office locations that offer digital fingerprinting.

Fingerprinting is not available at all Post Offices, so be sure to select a participating location.

In most cases, you do not need an appointment, but you should check the specific location’s hours and requirements.

When you go to the Post Office, bring:

• A copy of the FBI confirmation email with the barcode

• A valid government-issued ID (passport or driver’s license)

At USPS:

• You will pay approximately $50 for the fingerprinting service.

• A USPS employee will scan all your fingerprints digitally.

• Your fingerprints will be submitted electronically and directly to the FBI.

Step 3: Receive and Download Your Report

Once your fingerprints are processed:

• You will receive an email from the FBI stating that your report is ready.

• Use the original secure link and PIN from Step 1 to log in.

• Download your Identity History Summary (rap sheet) directly online.

In most cases, this takes only a few days after fingerprint submission  :)