Author Topic: Apostle of the Hague (Read 10681 times)

Rubiaco · « **on:** March 25, 2011, 03:35:20 PM »

What is the deal with this? Does anyone know how to go about it? Are there "Hague" notaries in most decent sized cities, or only in state capitals where the government offices are? My father is a lawyer for the Federal government, and he's never even heard of this haha.

I also heard that we have to have our background check translated? I suppose it's time to re-read the manual!

Enteren · « **Reply #1 on:** March 25, 2011, 03:47:18 PM »

Each consulate seems to have different rules. I think they almost all require apostilles, but some do not list the translation as necessary.

Actually, on one consulate's website, the Spanish version of the requirements mention needing a translation, but then the English requirements for the same consulate do not mention it at all. I am not going to have it translated, because honestly there is not a single person working at a Spanish consulate who does NOT speak English.

All documents that require an apostille must be sent to the State Department in Washington, D.C. If you choose to go in person, they are open from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. only, Monday through Friday. The ridiculousness of our governments knows no bounds.

Here's the website: http://www.state.gov/m/a/auth/index.htm

Rubiaco · « **Reply #2 on:** March 25, 2011, 03:53:35 PM »

You I agree with you on the ridiculousness. But this Apostle thing is really on Europe's end, as far as having to have it (i think). I'm going through Miami, so I'll check their site. What confuses me is that, for most notarized things, you have to be physically present while it's notarized. I guess this is different.

But you may want to check, because I know another girl from Georgia (my state) who went through this last year, and just went to Atlanta and got it done in a matter of minutes. May be quicker if you live close to a state capital.

valkotukka · « **Reply #3 on:** March 25, 2011, 10:43:45 PM »

I had to get a visa two years ago for a university study abroad program, so I needed to get the apostille of the hague (although if I remember correctly, at that time it wasn't a FBI check, merely a police statement from your home city).
I had to go to Albany (NY State capitol) for another reason, so I just stopped by the state offices, and it was fairly quick and easy to get the apostille. I think I called or emailed ahead of time so that I knew where/when to go.
So, that is to say, if you live in a state capitol, you're lucky. I think I'll just be mailing it this time. Also, I'll definitely be re-reading the manual/consulate website, because I think things have changed a bit. Hope this information is useful.

hallbena · « **Reply #4 on:** April 05, 2011, 04:04:03 AM »

I am trying to figure out this exact same process. I have my FBI report and I live in Washington State and called the capitol and asked about getting an Apostille and they said I need to make sure my FBI report has Kimberley Del Greco's signature as well as the official seal on it. Which it does not. They also said I need to obtain the Apostille of Hague stamp from whereever the FBI report originated.

So then I called the customer service number on my FBI report and they said I could mail back in my report to get the signature and the official seal, but the person I spoke with said that I probably needed to send it to the US department of State for the Apostille of Hague stamp. I called a number he gave me for the US dept of State to try and confirm all this information that I received but was not able to reach an actual person. I sent an email but am waiting for a response.

If anyone gets this Apostille of Hague thingy and the translation taken care of. Let me know so I can follow the same steps cause this is an annoying process. The last time I got a student visa for spain it was not near as complex.

Packback · « **Reply #5 on:** April 05, 2011, 06:07:50 AM »

Quote from: hallbena on April 05, 2011, 04:04:03 AM

I am trying to figure out this exact same process. I have my FBI report and I live in Washington State and called the capitol and asked about getting an Apostille and they said I need to make sure my FBI report has Kimberley Del Greco's signature as well as the official seal on it. Which it does not. They also said I need to obtain the Apostille of Hague stamp from whereever the FBI report originated.

So then I called the customer service number on my FBI report and they said I could mail back in my report to get the signature and the official seal, but the person I spoke with said that I probably needed to send it to the US department of State for the Apostille of Hague stamp. I called a number he gave me for the US dept of State to try and confirm all this information that I received but was not able to reach an actual person. I sent an email but am waiting for a response.

If anyone gets this Apostille of Hague thingy and the translation taken care of. Let me know so I can follow the same steps cause this is an annoying process. The last time I got a student visa for spain it was not near as complex.

Most of the forum consensus is that if you do not have her signature or seal, you should call your state's state department and see if they can notarize and apostille it for you. If they can't, you have to send it back to the FBI (within 90 days of the date in the upper right corner of the record) to get her signature and seal, then you have to send it to DC, because the federal State Department only can apostille it if it's authenticated by the FBI (a federal agency).

Also, at least for the Chicago consulate, the FBI record has to be dated sometime in 2011.

Hope this helps. Most of this info comes from other forums (check out the ones labeled "FBI") and from http://www.state.gov/m/a/auth/c16921.htm
and
http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/cjis/background-checks/faqs

Rubiaco · « **Reply #6 on:** April 05, 2011, 06:55:20 AM »

hey Packback, where did you send the Original FBI background check to get sealed and signed, and how did you go about it? I'm going to go the GA route, but also decided to cover my bases and get the seal and sig before the 90 days are up. Did you send a cover sheet explaining what you need?

Also, is anyone sure about getting these translated, and if we can request that from the FBI as well? With all the Spanish speakers in this country, I'd think that they SHOULD offer that as an option. Guess I'll call them tomorrow to ask.

Packback · « **Reply #7 on:** April 05, 2011, 05:08:44 PM »

Quote from: Rubiaco on April 05, 2011, 06:55:20 AM

hey Packback, where did you send the Original FBI background check to get sealed and signed, and how did you go about it? I'm going to go the GA route, but also decided to cover my bases and get the seal and sig before the 90 days are up. Did you send a cover sheet explaining what you need?

I called the FBI and got the address as:

FBI CJIS Correspondence Division
ATTN: Patty
1000 Custer Hollow Rd.
Clarksburg, WV 26306

I sent mine there just under the 90-day window to return it for signature and seal. As soon as I get it back I'm sending it to:

U.S. Department of State
Authentications Office
518 23rd Street NW.
SA-1
Washington, DC 20520

...to get the federal Apostille.

In both instances, there is a cover letter with all of my mailing information, phone and email, and a brief statement about what I need (the signature and authentication from FBI, and apostille from the State Dept.)

My state (MN) wasn't able to authenticate/apostille the unsigned FBI doc for me, so now I have to send it out again...twice. And wait.

That's my story. I hope it helps!

Packback · « **Reply #8 on:** April 05, 2011, 05:09:10 PM »

Quote from: Rubiaco on April 05, 2011, 06:55:20 AM

Also, is anyone sure about getting these translated, and if we can request that from the FBI as well? With all the Spanish speakers in this country, I'd think that they SHOULD offer that as an option. Guess I'll call them tomorrow to ask.

I haven't checked on translations--simply because it hasn't been listed as a req. by the Chicago consulate. The only point that worries me is having to apply for the NIE, etc. in Spain and having these documents only in English. I'll ask the consulate during my visa appt. about having them translated to take to España, but I don't think I'm going to have them translated for the appt.

pittel · « **Reply #9 on:** April 05, 2011, 07:06:47 PM »

Quote from: Packback on April 05, 2011, 05:09:10 PM

I haven't checked on translations--simply because it hasn't been listed as a req. by the Chicago consulate. The only point that worries me is having to apply for the NIE, etc. in Spain and having these documents only in English. I'll ask the consulate during my visa appt. about having them translated to take to España, but I don't think I'm going to have them translated for the appt.

I was in Chicago jurisdiction last year and I didn't have any problems once in Spain with untranslated documents, fyi.

Packback · « **Reply #10 on:** April 05, 2011, 07:08:24 PM »

Quote from: pittel on April 05, 2011, 07:06:47 PM

I was in Chicago jurisdiction last year and I didn't have any problems once in Spain with untranslated documents, fyi.

So good to know! Thanks, pittel!

Rubiaco · « **Reply #11 on:** April 05, 2011, 08:07:56 PM »

Great guys. Thanks for both responses.

WindyCity · « **Reply #12 on:** April 06, 2011, 04:24:41 AM »

@ Packback How were you able to get in contact with the Chicago consulate (usual questions about background check etc)? I've tried emailing and calling (i.e. leaving a message) but nothing yet. How long was the turn around on the email (I'd prefer an email answer, so I can print it out as proof when i apply for the visa)?

sweetest_strawberry · « **Reply #13 on:** April 06, 2011, 04:47:30 AM »

@WindyCity

I've been contacting the Chicago consulate through their visa email. About 2 weeks ago, they were returning e-mails within a day or so, if not within hours. However, I emailed them over a week ago but they still haven't responded. I've also tried calling them but it just goes straight to voicemail. So... pretty much the Chicago consulate is un-contactable right now

Grrrrrrr!

Lmburel · « **Reply #14 on:** April 06, 2011, 05:10:48 AM »

Quote from: sweetest_strawberry on April 06, 2011, 04:47:30 AM

@WindyCity

I've been contacting the Chicago consulate through their visa email. About 2 weeks ago, they were returning e-mails within a day or so, if not within hours. However, I emailed them over a week ago but they still haven't responded. I've also tried calling them but it just goes straight to voicemail. So... pretty much the Chicago consulate is un-contactable right now Grrrrrrr!

Make sure you are contacting them with the correct e-mail. I got an email back saying I should contact directly to visas for related questions: cog.chicago.vis@maec.es

If you are already sending e-mails to that address...then disregard my post!

WindyCity · « **Reply #15 on:** April 06, 2011, 05:59:12 AM »

@ Lmburel and sweetest_strawberry I've used the cog.chicago.vis@maec.es email address with no success so far.

I'm mostly wondering about the FBI background check - mine is dated received in December 2010 but returned in January 2011, so I want to know if it's recent enough, or if I'll need to start the whole thing again. I've seen some posts saying that the background check just needs to be dated in 2011, but I want it in writing

sweetest_strawberry · « **Reply #16 on:** April 06, 2011, 06:08:55 AM »

This is the email I received from the consulate regarding this matter. You just need to make sure the date the background check was issued (on the upper right corner of the background check) was in 2011. Perhaps the below would be of some help to you:

You may apply for your student visa with the FBI background check issued in January 2011.

Sincerely,

-----Mensaje original-----
De: Megumi Iwasaki
Enviado el: mié 23/03/2011 17:36
Para: . Con. Chicago. Visados
Asunto: FBI Background Check and Medical Certificate for Student Visa (Over 180 days)

To Whom It May Concern:

I was recently accepted to be a Language & Cultural Assistant in Spain
during the next school year (2011-2012). This grant is offered throught the
Spanish Ministerio de Educación. In order to apply for the grant, I was
required to submit a copy of a medical certificate and a copy of an FBI
background check that I am to turn into the Chicago consulate when I
actually apply for my student visa. Because of the grant application
deadline, both documents were issued in January 2011. However, on your
website it states that both the medical certificate and the FBI background
check must be no older than 3 monthes at the time the visa application is
submitted. I will not be able to apply for a student visa until June or July
2011, when our official acceptance letter arrives and by then, over 3
monthes would have passed from the date the background check and the medical
certificate were issued. Especially because obtaining a FBI background check
is such a lengthy process, would you be willing to grant an exception for
the "3-month" rule for my situation? Or would I have to obtain a medical
certificate and a background check all over again?

I look forward to your response,

Megumi Iwasaki

Lmburel · « **Reply #17 on:** April 06, 2011, 03:41:26 PM »

Quote from: WindyCity on April 06, 2011, 05:59:12 AM

@ Lmburel and sweetest_strawberry I've used the cog.chicago.vis@maec.es email address with no success so far.
I'm mostly wondering about the FBI background check - mine is dated received in December 2010 but returned in January 2011, so I want to know if it's recent enough, or if I'll need to start the whole thing again. I've seen some posts saying that the background check just needs to be dated in 2011, but I want it in writing

Yes, I have the same problem. Mine says 23 Dec 2010! I mean, come on. It's almost 2011. But, I received an e-mail back form Chicago Consulate and they said that it needed to be dated in 2011...no matter the 3 month thing, just 2011! From the date it was received not returned...unfortunately. That includes the medical note.

So, I got an answer for your same question. I hope that helps.

Packback · « **Reply #18 on:** April 06, 2011, 05:51:02 PM »

Quote from: Lmburel on April 06, 2011, 03:41:26 PM

Yes, I have the same problem. Mine says 23 Dec 2010! I mean, come on. It's almost 2011. But, I received an e-mail back form Chicago Consulate and they said that it needed to be dated in 2011...no matter the 3 month thing, just 2011! From the date it was received not returned...unfortunately. That includes the medical note.

The email I received from the Chicago consulate said the same thing: med and FBI forms dated 2011. There's two dates on the FBI record, though--the date they received it and returned it (middle of the record, underlined column headings), and the date it was mailed back, which is in the upper right hand corner. The FBI's "90-day" rule is based off the mail-back date. My "Return-Received" dates are both Dec. 2010, but my mail-back date is 2011.

@Lmburel: did the chicago consulate state specifically which date on the FBI record they regard as "dated by"?

I emailed the Chicago consulate last week, via cog.chicago.vis@maec.es, and got a response within 24 hours. I haven't tried since then. Maybe I should just drop in and ask...

sweetest_strawberry · « **Reply #19 on:** April 06, 2011, 06:13:23 PM »

To add to what Packback said, for the Chicago consulate, your medical letters need to be dated within 3 months of the day that you apply for your visa.

Packback · « **Reply #20 on:** April 06, 2011, 06:21:08 PM »

Quote from: sweetest_strawberry on April 06, 2011, 06:13:23 PM

To add to what Packback said, for the Chicago consulate, your medical letters need to be dated within 3 months of the day that you apply for your visa.

Interestingly...that is definitely what it says in their online visa instructions: http://www.consulate-spain-chicago.com/student.htm

...but not what they said in their email. One more example of the process being a bit arbitrary. Their email stated that the medical form and the FBI doc have to be dated "not before 2011".
Nothing about 3 months.

I'm following the online instructions. And I'm having my doctor use this form exactly: http://www.consulate-spain-chicago.com/doctor.htm

sweetest_strawberry · « **Reply #21 on:** April 06, 2011, 06:51:26 PM »

I've contacted the Consulate regarding this matter too, to see if auxiliares could get an exception to this rule and they've told me that while the FBI background check may be one that was issued some time in 2011, the medical letters must be dated within 3 months from the date you apply for the visa. And because getting another letter from my doctor is an easy task for me, I'll be asking for another one, just to be safe. Below is the continuation of the email that I posted yesterday.

You will have to present a medical certificate dated within three month of de date you are planning to apply for the visa.

Sincerely,

De: Megumi Iwasaki
Enviado el: jue 24/03/2011 0:16
Para: . Con. Chicago. Visados
Asunto: Re: FBI Background Check and Medical Certificate for Student Visa (Over 180 days)

Thank you for your quick reply.

Would I be able to use the same (January 2011) medical certificate as well?

Sincerely,

Megumi Iwasaki

Packback · « **Reply #22 on:** April 06, 2011, 07:18:09 PM »

Quote from: sweetest_strawberry on April 06, 2011, 06:51:26 PM

I've contacted the Consulate regarding this matter too, to see if auxiliares could get an exception to this rule and they've told me that while the FBI background check may be one that was issued some time in 2011, the medical letters must be dated within 3 months from the date you apply for the visa. And because getting another letter from my doctor is an easy task for me, I'll be asking for another one, just to be safe. Below is the continuation of the email that I posted yesterday.

You will have to present a medical certificate dated within three month of de date you are planning to apply for the visa.

Sincerely,

De: Megumi Iwasaki
Enviado el: jue 24/03/2011 0:16
Para: . Con. Chicago. Visados
Asunto: Re: FBI Background Check and Medical Certificate for Student Visa (Over 180 days)

Thank you for your quick reply.

Would I be able to use the same (January 2011) medical certificate as well?

Sincerely,

Megumi Iwasaki

jajajaja, here's my email from them:

"The FBI background and medical form must be dated no before than 2011 and you can apply for an appointment whenever you want.

Sincerely,
"

Does that not read like a direct contradiction?

I'm doing the same thing to be safe, a within-3-months med certificate, because it's relatively easy to get.

Hooray, visas.

WindyCity · « **Reply #23 on:** April 06, 2011, 10:25:15 PM »

@ Lmburel I got a reply from the Chicago consulate about the visa thing and this what they said:
Dear Sir or Madam,
I was recently accepted into the North American Language and Culture Assistants program for the 2011-2012 school year and I have a couple of questions about the visa requirements. I got my FBI background check done at the end of December, so it is dated: Received 12/20/10, Returned 1/13/11 and, in the upper right hand corner, 1/20/11. Do I need to obtain a more recent background check? My medical certificate is dated December 10, 2010 - do I need to get a more recent one? Also, I used my university's student health center so the form is signed by an advanced practice nurse, not a doctor. Does the form need to be signed by a MD doctor?
Finally, do any of these documents needed to be translated into Spanish?
Thank-you for your time and answers.
Sincerely,
Christine O'Connor

Reply
|
. Con. Chicago. Visados
to me

show details 12:33 PM (2 hours ago)

Medical certificate (for stays over 180 days only): A doctor’s recent statement (not older than three months) in doctor’s or medical center’s letterhead, indicating that “the student has been examined and found free of any contagious diseases according to the International Health Regulation 2005”. Must be signed by a M.D. (original + 1 copy) Example: www.consulate-spain-chicago.com/doctor.htm

The date of the FBI checkground is ok

Sincerely,

So it looks like as long as the returned date, or the date in the upper right hand corner is 2011, then you're ok. I'm definitely bringing the email in when I apply for the visa though

Footbagm · « **Reply #24 on:** April 07, 2011, 04:21:19 PM »

Here's the reply I got. Also contradictory to y'all's information

Quote

To whom it may concern,

The program manual for North American Language and Cultural Assistants indicates that to obtain a Visa we need to bring a certificate of mental and physical health as well as an FBI background check.

1) Can you please tell me the specific requirements for the background check and the medical certificate? Do they need to be translated into Spanish? Do they both need the Apostille of the Hague?

2) I have heard conflicting information about whether the documents need to be less than 90 days old at the time of Visa application. Can you clarify this for me? I received my original FBI check and medical certificate in February 2011, but my Visa appointment won't be until June/July. Do I need to obtain new copies of these?

Thank you,
Matthew Mueller
----
. Con. Chicago. Visados to Matt
You don't need to obtain new certificates. You may apply with the FBI and medical certificates dated February 2011.

Sincerely

-----Mensaje original-----
De: matt.footbagm@gmail.com en nombre de Matt Mueller
Enviado el: jue 31/03/2011 16:51
Para: . Con. Chicago. Visados
Asunto: Auxiliares norteamericanos del Ministerio de Educación de España (documentos )- Show quoted text -

What concerned me here is that the person I was talking to never gave me their name, just signed "sincerely [blank]". If they had, it would make it a lot easier to take in a printout of the e-mail as proof of this conversation. I even asked them to reply again and sign their name on the e-mail, but they never did reply.

So now I'm not sure what to do... I think I'm going to reapply for the background check and get a new medical certificate just to be safe. I've already got enough working against me and I don't want to risk getting turned away at the last minute just to save some time and $30

mjwjjj · « **Reply #25 on:** April 07, 2011, 06:18:41 PM »

This is so crazy/confusing it's almost funny to me! I read what everyone else wrote about Chicago... and it's completely different from what they told me! I got my FBI results back mid-December, as well as my medical check, I e-mailed to ask about it. They replied, and I quote, "If the results are from december it is ok, will be enough.

Sincerely,"

With no signature. Then I wrote back, "Thanks! Does the same apply for medical/health certificates? Will it be OK if it is dated mid-December 2010?"

And the response was "Yes it will be."

Sooo........... based on what everyone else is saying, I will probably play it safe and apply again?!

Lmburel · « **Reply #26 on:** April 07, 2011, 07:54:41 PM »

Quote from: mjwjjj on April 07, 2011, 06:18:41 PM

This is so crazy/confusing it's almost funny to me! I read what everyone else wrote about Chicago... and it's completely different from what they told me! I got my FBI results back mid-December, as well as my medical check, I e-mailed to ask about it. They replied, and I quote, "If the results are from december it is ok, will be enough.

Sincerely,"

With no signature. Then I wrote back, "Thanks! Does the same apply for medical/health certificates? Will it be OK if it is dated mid-December 2010?"

And the response was "Yes it will be."

Sooo........... based on what everyone else is saying, I will probably play it safe and apply again?!

Yeah. There was another e-mail from someone that said it must be dated within a year of applying. Another that says 3 months, another that says dated in 2011.

They seriously need to make up their minds.

I just sent another e-mail to double confirm. And, also ask for a name, bc I got the same response with "Sincerely, " and nothing after it.

Packback · « **Reply #27 on:** April 10, 2011, 09:03:21 AM »

Interesting thought--to go through all of the hoops and dating and stamping and mailing and firewalking only to stroll into your visa appointment, mention "auxiliar" and watch them hand over the visa without even looking at your docs. Ha.

May we be so lucky.

...here's to cañas at Cien Montaditos in six months!

jess.d.rob · « **Reply #28 on:** April 11, 2011, 06:07:15 PM »

Hey y'all! I think this thread took a turn towards the 3 month rule, but I am sending in my FBI check either today or tomorrow to get the Apostile. Does anyone know if we for sure need this? Because it doesn't say anything about it in the manuel. Or does it?

Looks like I am going to be on the safe side and send it just in case. It shouldn't take as long as the FBI check did. Thanks for any input!

Packback · « **Reply #29 on:** April 11, 2011, 07:06:59 PM »

Quote from: jess.d.rob on April 11, 2011, 06:07:15 PM

Hey y'all! I think this thread took a turn towards the 3 month rule, but I am sending in my FBI check either today or tomorrow to get the Apostile. Does anyone know if we for sure need this? Because it doesn't say anything about it in the manuel. Or does it?

Looks like I am going to be on the safe side and send it just in case. It shouldn't take as long as the FBI check did. Thanks for any input!

Check with your consulate. It's definitely in the manual, and several different consulates have told people across the boards that it is required. I think you're definitely doing the smart thing!

I'm still waiting to get my authenticated copy back so I can send it off to be apostilled...nail-bitingly fun times.

jess.d.rob · « **Reply #30 on:** April 11, 2011, 07:18:49 PM »

Thank you! Sending today!

Lmburel · « **Reply #31 on:** April 20, 2011, 04:02:31 PM »

Okay---here goes again.

I am just looking at my FBI background check. The date was returned to me on 1/20/2011. Unfortunately, I waited a little too long, seeing as today is my 3 month mark, if that is the date I am using.

I need to get this apostilled. Do I send it in to get apostilled? More importantly, where do I send it to get apostilled?

I am just so confused...and the more I am reading about it...the more confused I am getting. I just want to send it in and see what happens. If it doesn't work, I will just end up getting a new one.

Rubiaco · « **Reply #32 on:** April 20, 2011, 05:12:38 PM »

Quote from: Lmburel on April 20, 2011, 04:02:31 PM

Okay---here goes again.

I am just looking at my FBI background check. The date was returned to me on 1/20/2011. Unfortunately, I waited a little too long, seeing as today is my 3 month mark, if that is the date I am using.

I need to get this apostilled. Do I send it in to get apostilled? More importantly, where do I send it to get apostilled?

I am just so confused...and the more I am reading about it...the more confused I am getting. I just want to send it in and see what happens. If it doesn't work, I will just end up getting a new one.

What's your state? My FBI report was without the "seal and signature" from the FBI, and I called my State Department (Georgia) and they said I could get a copy of the report notarized locally and then get the Apostille. Now I have an "Apostillized" FBI background check sitting in my room with the med records and whatnot.

sweetest_strawberry · « **Reply #33 on:** April 20, 2011, 05:13:23 PM »

@Lmburel

The apostille thing varies from state-to-state, but the sure way to do it is by doing it through the federal government. So, as long as your FBI background check has been authenticated (signed and has a seal of the FBI on it), even if it has been over 90 days from the date the background check was issued, you can still send it off to get it apostilled.

http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/cjis/background-checks/faqs

So you if you have an authenticated background check, you can just send it off to the Office of Authentications. But you also have to send $8.00 and a cover letter to explain why you need your document apostilled.

http://www.state.gov/m/a/auth/index.htm

The address is:

U.S. Department of State
Authentications Office
518 23rd Street NW.
SA-1
Washington, DC 20520

Andrepdx · « **Reply #34 on:** April 20, 2011, 05:35:09 PM »

I have my background check that does not have a signature or a seal. It is dated February 8^th 2011. I am going to the SF Consulate. I am so lost.

Do I need to reapply for a new background then get it signed and sealed then ship it to get the Apostle of Hague?

Can I use the old background check, send it to get the signature and seal?

Please help –

Andre

sweetest_strawberry · « **Reply #35 on:** April 20, 2011, 05:47:33 PM »

@ Andrepdx

If you're planning on getting the apostille from the Office of Authentications, you still have time!

As soon as possible (you have until May 9), mail your background check with a note asking them to sign and place a seal on it so that you can get it apostilled back to the FBI (the same address as when you applied for it).

After you get your authenticated background check back, you can send it off to the Office of Authentications

Just make sure the FBI gets it by May 9 (90 days after your background check was issued)!! Or else they won't authenticate it.

Andrepdx · « **Reply #36 on:** April 20, 2011, 05:56:42 PM »

I have to two weeks to have this thing shipped back to DC, then shipped him, then i have to ship it back to get the Apostle? I think i might just have to apply for another one and ask them to sign and seal it.

Packback · « **Reply #37 on:** April 20, 2011, 09:01:48 PM »

Quote from: Andrepdx on April 20, 2011, 05:56:42 PM

I have to two weeks to have this thing shipped back to DC, then shipped him, then i have to ship it back to get the Apostle? I think i might just have to apply for another one and ask them to sign and seal it.

You have to send it back to the FBI CJIS Division in West Virginia (where it originated from) within 90 days of receiving it the first time to get the signature and seal--so you have until May 9th to get it to the FBI. Once you get the signed and sealed copy back from them, you send it to the State Dept. in DC to get apostilled--it takes a couple weeks to get it back. Then you take that to the visa appointment.

HOWEVER:
Call your state of residence's state department right now and see if they can notarize and apostille the unsigned, unsealed FBI record. Some states will notarize the unsigned document and apostille it (Example: GA) Some states will not allow you to notarize, and thus not allow you to get an apostille, of an unsigned document (Example: MN)

If your state's state department will not notarize and apostille the unsigned, non-seal FBI record, send it off immediately to the FBI in Clarksburg, WV with a letter saying that you need it authenticated with a signature and seal--they have to receive it by May 9th, in your case. They'll get it back to you pretty quickly if you include a self-addressed overnight return envelope.

Andrepdx · « **Reply #38 on:** April 20, 2011, 10:33:05 PM »

Ok i will ship it off tomorrow - FEDEX if i have to. This background check will be okay - even though its not 90 days before the Visa, if i am going to SF consulate. (they sure make this visa process difficult)

Andre

Packback · « **Reply #39 on:** April 20, 2011, 10:39:03 PM »

Quote from: Andrepdx on April 20, 2011, 10:33:05 PM

Ok i will ship it off tomorrow - FEDEX if i have to. This background check will be okay - even though its not 90 days before the Visa, if i am going to SF consulate. (they sure make this visa process difficult)

Andre

Good luck!

rsandre22 · « **Reply #40 on:** May 01, 2011, 08:46:25 PM »

Is the signature an actual signature ? My background check is more than 90 days old, it does not have a seal on it (what does the seal look like?) and it does not have an actual pen-written signature on it. Do I FOR SURE need to send in for a new background check?

Packback · « **Reply #41 on:** May 02, 2011, 01:55:26 AM »

Quote from: rsandre22 on May 01, 2011, 08:46:25 PM

Is the signature an actual signature ? My background check is more than 90 days old, it does not have a seal on it (what does the seal look like?) and it does not have an actual pen-written signature on it. Do I FOR SURE need to send in for a new background check?

Unless your state's state department will notarize and apostille it for you... I'd say you probably need a new background check (the U.S. state department apostilles federally-authenticated docs: http://www.state.gov/m/a/auth/c16921.htm...which means seal and signature) When you send off for it, make sure you include a cover letter that says you need it authenticated with a signature and seal!

Tenga suerte.

rsandre22 · « **Reply #42 on:** May 02, 2011, 02:45:40 AM »

Quote from: Packback on May 02, 2011, 01:55:26 AM

Unless your state's state department will notarize and apostille it for you... I'd say you probably need a new background check (the U.S. state department apostilles federally-authenticated docs: http://www.state.gov/m/a/auth/c16921.htm...which means seal and signature) When you send off for it, make sure you include a cover letter that says you need it authenticated with a signature and seal!

Tenga suerte.

Will there be enough time? It will take them 12 weeks to send me back the updated background check, 2 more for the apostille and then 4-6 more for the visa, assuming everything goes as planned. I'm starting to wonder how many people are going to put this stuff off and not be able to go period.. : /

Thanks for your help though Packback. I'll get some new fingerprints soon.

sweetest_strawberry · « **Reply #43 on:** May 02, 2011, 02:53:06 AM »

I doubt it will take 12 weeks to get a new background check. I'm sure you'd get it back in maybe 4 to 6 weeks, especially if you send a prepaid return envelope when you apply. I remember when I applied for my background check in early December, I had my results back by the second week of January and I didn't even send a return envelope

Packback · « **Reply #44 on:** May 02, 2011, 06:17:15 AM »

Quote from: sweetest_strawberry on May 02, 2011, 02:53:06 AM

I doubt it will take 12 weeks to get a new background check. I'm sure you'd get it back in maybe 4 to 6 weeks, especially if you send a prepaid return envelope when you apply. I remember when I applied for my background check in early December, I had my results back by the second week of January and I didn't even send a return envelope

I second this.

I think the 12-week claim is so they can take that long without anyone pointing fingers. Send a prepaid envelope and you should be fine within a few weeks of them receiving it. The issue comes with the apostille from DC---that's taking three weeks at least, according to the forums (I'm still waiting on mine and this is week 3). Make sure you include that cover letter asking for authentication, though. Because if you have to send it back to get authenticated, you may be short on time.

rsandre22 · « **Reply #45 on:** May 02, 2011, 06:59:44 AM »

Hey I e-mailed Carmen Fernandez Santas, who can be defined by her e-mail signature:

Carmen Fernández Santás
Asesora Técnica Docente / Education Advisor
Agregaduría de Educación / Education Office
Consulado General de España / Consulate General of Spain
ADDRESS 1: 6300 Wilshire Boulevard, suite 830, Los Angeles, CA, 90048.
Phone : 323 852 6997 Ext 2 - FAX: 323 852 0759
carmen.santas@educacion.es

This is what I e-mailed her yesterday (May 1st):

Carmen,

Do you know if I need to re-apply for my FBI background check if it does not have the official seal or the signature on it? I have heard that the FBI will not put the Apostille of the Hague on the background check if it does not already have the official seal and a signature on it.

I am worried because it would take 12 weeks to get my new FBI background check WITH the official seal/signature and that would not allow me much time to finish the visa application.

Thanks,

Ryan

This is how she answered today (May 2nd):

Language and culture assistants can use the same FBI and medical certificates for the whole process. Please check the instructions for Western applicants through the Consulates of LA and San Francisco which were updated last Friday:

http://www.educacion.gob.es/exterior/centros/losangeles/es/normativa/visado.shtml

Best

..Thoughts?

Packback · « **Reply #46 on:** May 02, 2011, 07:59:17 PM »

Quote from: rsandre22 on May 02, 2011, 06:59:44 AM

This is how she answered today (May 2nd):

Language and culture assistants can use the same FBI and medical certificates for the whole process. Please check the instructions for Western applicants through the Consulates of LA and San Francisco which were updated last Friday:

http://www.educacion.gob.es/exterior/centros/losangeles/es/normativa/visado.shtml

..Thoughts?

That's similar to the answer I got from the Chicago consulate; however, it doesn't really affect the apostille process. I read her email (and I read mine from the consulate), as to say that the dating of the documents (i.e. the medical and FBI documents) is not as crucial as having them. Meaning that you can use a background check as long as it is from 2011. BUT the rules for the state dept. and FBI don't change--the FBI won't authenticate an unsigned, unsealed background check over 90 days old, and the U.S. State Dept. issues apostilles for federally-authenticated documents. This whole process is confusing and time-consuming...

Keep posting--and remember that the consulate has the final say on your visa. Keep in touch with them about your situation--perhaps they'll overlook the apostille if you have everything else together.

In any case, keep a copy of your background check that you have now in hand, and expedite the new background check however you can: meaning cover letters and prepaid envelopes all the way.

Vaya con Dios.

LB331 · « **Reply #47 on:** May 03, 2011, 03:50:46 AM »

Are you guys getting the apostille on your medical letter too, or just the FBI report? And this has to be done within 3 months, right?

Also, has anyone who lives near DC gone in person to get the apostille? Is this even a possibility, or is that only if your state govt will issue it on the FBI report? If I can, I'd prefer to go to DC to speed up the process a bit.

LB331 · « **Reply #48 on:** May 03, 2011, 03:53:18 AM »

Another thought- from what I understand, the apostille is only needed once we're in Spain (not for our visa app). my med. letter is just barely within the 3 month rule. I might go ahead & apply for my visa, then get a new letter to get apostilled, since we only leave copies w/ the consulate & take our originals home. does this sound like it would work? (my consulate already told me its not too early to apply, so that shouldnt be an issue for me)

El Venado · « **Reply #49 on:** May 04, 2011, 09:28:53 AM »

This Apostille business seems like madness. I've been worried about it, but recently looked at my FBI Background check which I received in early March. It says at the top/middle on the right side "Date Requested: 2011/03/16"

Also, just below that is a a box with Kimberley Del Greco's signature (not a hand signed one) and down on the bottom part of the page is a stamped seal. My question is, would this be considered the actual Apostille, or do I still need to go about this particularly confusing process? Are y'alls looking the same way?

Thanks for any info,
El Venado!

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Author Topic: Apostle of the Hague (Read 10681 times)