Criminal Background Check Apostille for United States

Korean criminal background checks apostilled for the United States are required for US immigration applications (green card, naturalization), employment-based visa applications (H-1B, EB-1, EB-2), adoption, and professional licensing in certain US states. Korean criminal background checks are issued by the National Police Agency (경찰청).

How to apostille a Korean criminal background check for United States

1Request the Korean criminal background check (범죄경력조회서 or 범죄수사경력조회서) from the Korean National Police Agency or via the Government24 portal
2MOFA apostille — standard 3–5 business days, express 1–2 business days
3Certified English translation with USCIS-compliant certification
4Submit to USCIS, the US embassy, or the relevant US authority

Requirements for United States

Criminal background check must be issued by the Korean National Police Agency with an official seal
Two types: 범죄경력조회서 (conviction record) and 범죄수사경력조회서 (investigation record) — USCIS typically requires both
MOFA apostille required
Certified English translation
USCIS immigration applications typically require background checks covering the entire period lived in Korea from age 16+
Check validity period — many US consulates require the document to be issued within 6 months of submission

What to look for in a specialist

Knowledge of which Korean background check type USCIS requires (범죄경력 vs 범죄수사경력)

Experience with USCIS Form I-485 and US consulate background check requirements

Certified English translation with correct USCIS certification format

Ability to obtain background checks remotely via Government24 or with power of attorney

Awareness of document validity windows — typically must be issued within 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 범죄경력조회서 and 범죄수사경력조회서?

The 범죄경력조회서 shows conviction records (확정된 범죄 경력). The 범죄수사경력조회서 shows investigation records including cases that may not have resulted in conviction. USCIS typically requires the 범죄수사경력조회서 as it is more comprehensive, but exact requirements depend on your application type.

How long is a Korean criminal background check valid for US immigration?

US consulates and USCIS typically require criminal background checks to have been issued within the past 6 months at the time of submission. If your processing takes longer than 6 months, you may need to obtain a fresh document.

Can I get a Korean criminal background check apostilled if I'm currently in the US?

Yes. You can apply for the background check online via the Government24 portal (if eligible) or via the Korean embassy/consulate in the US for consular apostille. Alternatively, our specialists in Korea can obtain and apostille the document with a power of attorney.

Does USCIS require a certified translation of the Korean criminal background check?

Yes. USCIS requires a certified English translation of all foreign-language documents, including the Korean criminal background check. The translator must certify accuracy and language competency.