Apostille FAQ

An apostille is a certificate issued by a Secretary of State or other designated authority that verifies the authenticity of a public document so it can be used in another country that participates in the Hague Apostille Convention. The apostille confirms that the signature, seal, or stamp on the document is legitimate so the document will be recognized internationally. Apostilles are commonly required when documents will be used abroad for matters such as immigration, marriage, education, business transactions, or dual citizenship applications.

Apostille services allow documents from one country to be legally recognized in another. They simplify what would otherwise be a complex process, making it easier for people and businesses to live, work, study and operate internationally.

Notarization and apostilles serve different purposes. A notarization verifies the identity of the person signing a document and confirms that the signature was made willingly. It is performed by a notary public. An apostille is issued by a Secretary of State or other designated authority and verifies that the notarization or public official’s signature on a document is authentic so the document can be recognized in another country. In many cases, a document must first be notarized before it can receive an apostille.

Many different documents may require an apostille depending on how they will be used internationally. Common examples include: • Birth, marriage, and death certificates • Divorce decrees • Powers of attorney • School transcripts and diplomas • Background checks (including FBI background checks) • Corporate or business documents • Adoption paperwork If you are unsure whether your document requires an apostille, I am happy to review it and help determine the correct process.

Countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention require an apostille. If your document will be used in a country that is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, a different process called embassy or consular legalization may be required. The full list of countries participating in the Hague Apostille Convention can be found here: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/status-table/?cid=41(https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/status-table/?cid=41)