Understanding Apostille Services

If you’ve ever needed to send official documents abroad—for a job, study program, adoption, or marriage—you may have been asked to get an apostille. While the word may sound unfamiliar, an apostille is simply a type of international certification that proves your document is authentic and legally recognized in another country.

What Is an Apostille?

An apostille is a certificate issued by a government authority that validates the origin of a public document, such as a birth certificate, diploma, or notarized legal form. It’s used specifically for countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961.

Why Would You Need One?

You might need an apostille if you're:

• Studying abroad

• Getting married in another country

• Applying for dual citizenship

• Conducting international business

• Completing an overseas adoption

In each of these cases, the receiving country wants assurance that your document is legitimate and properly certified.

What Types of Documents Can Be Apostilled?

• Birth and death certificates

• Marriage certificates

• Divorce decrees

• Academic transcripts and diplomas

• Powers of attorney

• Notarized legal agreements

  
  

How Do You Get an Apostille?

In the U.S., apostilles are typically issued by the Secretary of State’s office in the state where the document was issued or notarized. You may need to:

1. Get your document notarized (if it’s not already official).

2. Submit it to the appropriate government agency.

3. Pay a fee and wait for processing (often 1–3 weeks or faster with expedited services).

Some states allow walk-in services, while others require mail-in submissions.

Apostille vs. Authentication

If your document is going to a country not part of the Hague Convention, you’ll likely need authentication and legalization instead of an apostille. This is a more complex process involving the U.S. Department of State and the foreign country’s consulate.

Understanding apostille services helps ensure your documents are accepted and recognized internationally—saving you time, stress, and the risk of rejection abroad.