Mississippi Background Check & Apostille Guide

Issuing agency

Mississippi Department of Public Safety — Bureau of Investigation

Steps to request and apostille your record

1. STEP 1Request Your Background Check

   • Mississippi criminal background checks are handled by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation's Criminal Information Center.
   • Complete a Release Background Authorization Form. The form must be signed before a notary public.
   • Submit the notarized form along with a $32 money order payable to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety and a copy of your state ID or driver's license.
   • Mail to: Criminal Information Center, 3891 Highway 468 West, Pearl, MS 39208.
   • Fingerprint-based checks are also available through local law enforcement agencies for an additional fee.

2. STEP 2Receive Your Results

   • Processing typically takes 3 to 7 business days after receipt of your request.
   • Results are mailed to the address provided on your request form.
   • Your report will detail any Mississippi criminal history or confirm no record found.

3. STEP 3Apostille Your Background Check

   • Submit your background check to the Mississippi Secretary of State for an apostille.
   • Contact the Notary Division at (601) 359-1615 for current submission instructions.
   • The apostille fee is $5 per document. Processing takes approximately 2 business days.
   • Documents must be notarized by a Mississippi notary public or bear the signature of a Mississippi public official to qualify for an apostille.

4. STEP 4Translate via EcuadorTranslations.com

   • Upload your apostilled background check to EcuadorTranslations.com for certified Spanish translation.
   • Cost: $150 per document ($130 each for 3 or more documents).
   • Turnaround: 3 business days. Your translation is certified and notarized, ready for submission to Ecuador immigration.

Apostille authority

Key notes

• The Release Background Authorization Form must be notarized before submission — plan a notary visit before mailing.
• A copy of your state ID or driver's license is required with your request.
• Only money orders are accepted for the $32 background check fee — personal checks and cash are not accepted by mail.
• If you no longer live in Mississippi, contact the Criminal Information Center at (601) 933-2600 for guidance on out-of-state requests.

Sources and verification