All-in-One Fingerprinting, FBI Background Check & Apostille

The FBI background check itself is generally considered valid for either 3 months or 6 months from the issue date.  Many receiving countries won't accept an older report as people's situations can change.  The apostille itself does not expire.  

It all depends on the receiving party.  If the requirements ask for "state of residence police clearance" then an FDLE background check should be sufficient.  If they ask for a "Federal background check" then an FBI background check should be done. Typically for visas, international adoptions, and citizenship applications, an FBI background check is needed.