An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates a US document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention (over 120 countries). It verifies the document's origin (the signature, seal, and capacity of the official who signed it) so foreign governments will accept it.
8 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Confirm the destination country accepts apostilles — Verify the country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention at hcch.net. Non-member countries require embassy or consular legalization inst...
- Determine the issuing authority — State-issued documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, court documents, notarized documents) receive apostilles from the Secretary of State of the stat...
- Obtain an original or certified copy — The document must be an original or certified copy with original seals and signatures. Photocopies are not acceptable unless they are notarized certified copies.
- Get notarization if needed — Some documents (like personal letters, translations, or corporate documents) must be notarized by a commissioned notary public before an apostille can be issued. The ap...
- Handle translations — If the destination country requires translation, have the document professionally translated and get the translation notarized. Do NOT notarize the original document — notariz...
- Submit to the correct office — For state documents, submit to the Secretary of State where the document was issued (in person or by mail). For federal documents, submit to the US Department of Stat...
- Pay the fee — Fees vary by state, typically $5-$25 per document. Federal apostilles cost $20. Include payment as specified (check, money order, or online payment).
- Receive your apostilled document — Processing time ranges from same-day (in person, some states) to several weeks (by mail). The apostille is attached to or stamped on your document.
Common Mistakes
- Submitting to the wrong state
- Using photocopies
- Not notarizing when required
- Confusing apostille with embassy legalization
- Expired documents
Pro Tips
- Many Secretary of State offices allow in-person same-day service
- Apostille expediting services can handle the process for you for an additiona...
- Federal apostilles (US Department of State) can be requested by mail with est...
- Birth certificates and marriage certificates are the most commonly apostilled...
- Some states (e.g., California) have online portals for requesting apostilles,...