State Background Check
How to obtain your state criminal background check for an Ecuador visa application.
In addition to the FBI background check, Ecuador requires a state-level background check. The state should correspond to the address you use on your visa application.
Choosing Your State
Ecuador will not send you any mail, so you can use any address — a family member's address, a previous address, or any address in a state that offers background checks. Pick a state where the process is straightforward.
How to Get It
Each state has its own process. Contact the state police or department of public safety in your chosen state to request a criminal history record. Some states offer online requests; others require a mailed request with fingerprints.
If Your State Does Not Offer Background Checks
Some states do not provide state-level background checks to individuals. In that case, obtain a clearance letter from your local police department. The letter must be:
- Notarized in the state where the police department is located.
- Apostilled in that state.
- Certified translated into Spanish by a translator licensed by Ecuador's judiciary.
- The translation notarized by an Ecuadorian notary.
Validity
The background check is valid for 180 days from issuance.