Top 10 list of things to know about the apostille process

1. What Is an Apostille?

An apostille is a certification that authenticates documents for use in foreign countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It verifies the document’s origin and seals it for international recognition.

2. International Use of Apostilles

Apostilles are used when a document needs to be presented in another country. The process ensures that a document, like a birth certificate or diploma, is recognized internationally without needing further legal verification.

3. Apostille vs. Notarization

While notarization certifies that a document is legitimate within the country where it was issued, an apostille is used for international recognition. Notarization is often a first step before an apostille can be obtained.

4. Countries That Use Apostilles

The apostille process is part of the Hague Convention, which has over 100 member countries. These countries accept apostilled documents without further authentication, unlike non-member countries.

5. Documents That Can Be Apostilled

Common documents that can be apostilled include birth and marriage certificates, powers of attorney, legal contracts, educational diplomas, and court judgments. Each country has its specific rules for what types of documents are eligible.

6. Who Issues Apostilles?

Apostilles are issued by government authorities, typically the Secretary of State, in the U.S., or a designated authority in other countries. It’s important to apply to the right office for the process to be valid.

7. Apostille Requirements Vary by Country

While the process is standardized for Hague Convention countries, specific requirements and fees may vary. It’s crucial to check the requirements of the destination country before submitting a document for apostille.

8. Processing Time for Apostilles

The time it takes to get an apostille can vary. It can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the jurisdiction and whether you apply in person, by mail, or through a third-party service.

9. Apostille Fees

Apostille fees are typically modest, but they can vary by state or country. In some places, the fee is a flat rate per document, while in others, it may depend on the type of document.

10. When Apostilles Are Not Needed

If the country where the document will be used is not part of the Hague Convention, an apostille will not be recognized. In such cases, the document may require additional legalization through the embassy or consulate.