How to Apostille a Document for International Use

 

 

Guide on How to Apostille a Document

An apostille is an official government seal that authenticates documents for international use, making them valid in other countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Common documents that require apostilles include birth certificates, marriage certificates, court documents, school records, and other official certificates.

If you’re preparing to apostille a document, follow these steps to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

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Step 1: Obtain the Original Document

For state-issued documents such as birth, marriage, or death certificates, you must use an original certified copy obtained from the issuing authority, such as the state vital records office. For documents such as diplomas or transcripts, ensure you have the official version from the institution.

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Step 2: Ensure Documents Are Notarized

If your document requires notarization, ensure it is signed and notarized in the same state where it was issued. For instance, a document issued in California must be notarized by a California notary. This step ensures the document is ready for authentication.

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Step 3: Identify the Destination Country

The destination country determines the process:

• Hague Apostille Convention Member Countries: Documents only require an apostille from the Secretary of State in the issuing state.
• Non-Hague Countries: Additional steps, such as authentication by the U.S. Department of State and legalization by the destination country’s embassy, may be required.

Knowing the destination country helps ensure compliance with specific requirements.

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Step 4: Submit Documents to the Secretary of State

For documents being sent to Hague member countries:

• Submit your notarized or certified documents to the Secretary of State in the state where the document was issued.
• Include the completed application form and required fee (usually around $15 per document, though this may vary by state).
• Processing times are typically up to seven business days, so plan accordingly.

For Non-Hague countries, proceed to Step 5.

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Step 5: Authentication by the U.S. Department of State (Non-Hague Countries)

If your document is destined for a Non-Hague country, after certification by the state, send it to the U.S. Department of State for authentication. This step certifies the document at the federal level.

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Step 6: Legalization by the Embassy

Finally, for Non-Hague countries, the document must be legalized at the embassy or consulate of the destination country. Contact the embassy to confirm their specific requirements and fees.

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Costs for an Apostille

The costs for obtaining an apostille depend on several factors:

1. Certified Copies: Vital records, such as birth or marriage certificates, cost $10 and up per copy from the vital records office.
2. Apostille Fee: The Secretary of State charges approximately $15 per document (or $10 for adoption-related documents).
3. Translation Fees (if needed): Documents not in English must be translated and notarized, incurring additional costs for translation and notary services.

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What About Foreign Language Documents?

Documents written in a foreign language must be translated into English by a certified translator. Both the original document and the translated version must be notarized and submitted together. This ensures the apostille applies to both the original and the translation.

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Key Benefits of an Apostille

• Once a document is apostilled, no further certification is needed for use in Hague Convention countries.
• Apostilled documents are automatically recognized by participating countries, eliminating the need for embassy or customs certification.

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How Hague Apostille Services Can Help

At Hague Apostille Services, we simplify the entire apostille process with a 100% online system, ensuring your documents are processed quickly and accurately. Our services include:

• Free Document Review: We verify your documents for compliance before submission.
• Fast Turnaround: Standard processing takes 2–7 business days, with expedited options available.
• Transparent Pricing: Flat fees include government and notary charges—no hidden costs.

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Get Started Today!

Don’t let the apostille process overwhelm you. Trust Hague Apostille Services to handle your documents with care and efficiency.

Contact us today for expert assistance and fast, reliable apostille services.

Hague Apostille Services – Fast, Reliable, and Affordable.

Contact Us:
Go to Hague Apostille Services now!
https://hagueapostilleservices.org/
E-Mail: info@hagueapostilleservices.com

 

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