FBI Background Check
for Turkey

Do I Need an FBI Background Check for Turkey?

U.S. citizens applying for certain visas, residency permits, or immigration processes in Turkey may be required to submit an FBI fingerprint-based background check, also known as an FBI Identity History Summary.

Turkish authorities may request this document to verify that the applicant does not have a criminal record in the United States. This is most common for individuals applying for residency permits, work authorization, or long-term stays in Turkey.

Short-term travel to Turkey for tourism typically does not require an FBI background check.

Applicants should confirm specific requirements with the Turkish consulate, immigration office, or sponsoring employer, as requirements may vary depending on the application type.

What Is Usually Required (Apostille, Translation, Validity)

When submitting an FBI background check for use in Turkey, additional authentication steps are typically required.

Turkey is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so the FBI background check usually needs to be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State in order to be accepted by Turkish authorities.

In many cases, a certified Turkish translation of the FBI background check may also be required.

Applicants are often required to submit a recently issued background check, typically within three to six months, although this can vary depending on the visa or residency category.

It is important to confirm document requirements with the appropriate Turkish authority or consulate before submission.

How to Apply

Certifix offers nationwide electronic enrollment for FBI fingerprint-based background checks used for Turkey visa and residency applications.

Applicants can enroll online in minutes and then visit a participating Certifix location for Live Scan digital fingerprinting. Your fingerprints are securely transmitted to the FBI, and your FBI Identity History Summary is generated electronically.

During enrollment, you may also select the apostille service add-on, allowing Certifix to coordinate authentication of your FBI background check with the U.S. Department of State.

Because requirements in Turkey may vary depending on the application, applicants should confirm whether apostille, translation, and document validity requirements apply.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Does Turkey require an FBI background check for visa or residency applications?

  Yes. U.S. citizens applying for certain residency permits or work-related visas in Turkey may be required to submit an FBI background check.

• Does Turkey require an apostille for an FBI background check?

  Yes. Turkey is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, so an apostille from the U.S. Department of State is typically required.

• Does Turkey require translation of the FBI background check?

  Yes, in many cases. A certified Turkish translation may be required for official use.

• How recent must the FBI background check be for Turkey?

  Most authorities require the document to be issued within three to six months, though this may vary.

• Is an FBI background check required for work visas in Turkey?

  Yes. Applicants applying for employment or long-term residency may need to provide a background check.

• Can I use a state background check instead of an FBI background check?

  No. Turkish authorities typically require a federal FBI background check.

• How long does it take to receive an FBI background check?

  Processing times vary, but Live Scan submissions are generally faster than fingerprint card submissions.

• Can I apply online?

  Yes. You can enroll online with Certifix and complete your fingerprinting at a participating location.

• Can Certifix handle the apostille for Turkey?

  Yes. Certifix offers an apostille service add-on during enrollment to handle authentication with the U.S. Department of State.