Every D8 visa requires an FBI background check with federal apostille. We coordinate the entire process so you get it right the first time - no delays, no mistakes.
Most people get a state-level apostille (wrong). Portugal requires federal State Department apostille for FBI checks. Getting it wrong means starting over.
Low-quality fingerprints get rejected by FBI. Using wrong ink type, poor pressure, or smudges means restarting the 4-8 week FBI processing time.
FBI has multiple background check types (employment, adoption, immigration). Using the wrong channel or form means your check won't be accepted for D8 visa.
FBI checks are only valid for 6 months from issue date. If you get it too early or apostille takes too long, it expires before submission.
We connect you with approved fingerprinting locations near you and ensure prints are taken correctly.
We coordinate submission to FBI with correct forms and payment for Identity History Summary Check.
Once FBI check arrives, we coordinate federal apostille through U.S. State Department - the only type Portugal accepts.
Final apostilled FBI check delivered to you with validation that it meets all D8 requirements.
Complete coordination from fingerprints to apostilled FBI check
+ FBI fee ($18) + State Dept apostille fee ($20)
Fast-track FBI processing + expedited apostille
+ FBI fee ($18) + State Dept expedited fee ($50)
Issued by: Your state's Secretary of State office
Used for: Birth certificates, marriage licenses, state-issued documents
Portugal accepts for FBI check? NO
Issued by: U.S. Department of State
Used for: FBI background checks, federal documents
Portugal accepts for FBI check? YES
Why this matters: Getting a state apostille instead of federal is the #1 most common mistake. If you submit with the wrong apostille type, your application will be rejected and you'll need to start the 8-14 week process over. We ensure you get the correct federal apostille every time.
Yes, but most DIY applicants make costly mistakes: wrong apostille type (state vs. federal), poor fingerprints requiring resubmission, or wrong FBI check type. Our service eliminates these risks and often saves time despite the coordination fee.
6 months from the date the FBI issues it (not the apostille date). We help you time the process so your check is fresh when you submit but doesn't expire before approval.
Minor offenses often don't disqualify you. We connect you with immigration lawyers from our network who can assess your situation and advise on disclosure strategy. Serious crimes may be disqualifying - we'll be honest about your options.
Yes - electronic fingerprinting is faster (24-48 hour FBI processing vs. 4-8 weeks for mail). We coordinate with approved channelers who submit electronically. This is included in our expedited service.
No - we coordinate with vetted providers in our network: FBI-approved fingerprinting locations near you and apostille specialists who work directly with the State Department. We manage the process but don't perform these services ourselves.
Our fee covers: finding approved fingerprinting near you, providing correct FBI forms, coordinating submission with correct payment, managing State Department apostille process, tracking throughout, verification that final document meets Portugal's requirements, and delivery to you. Government fees (FBI $18, State Dept $20-50) are additional.
Don't waste months on mistakes - let us coordinate your FBI background check and federal apostille
Free consultation • Standard & expedited options available