The apostille and authentication process can be complicated and time-consuming. Incorrect documentation may result in authentication requests being rejected, costing you time and money.
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What is an Apostille?
In 1961, many countries joined together to create a simplified method of “legalizing” documents for universal recognition. Members of the conference, referred to as The Hague Convention, adopted a document referred to as an Apostille that would be recognized by all member countries.
Simply put, the apostille is a specialized certification of public (including notarized) documents issued by the Secretary of State, to be used in countries that are members of The Hague Convention.
Is an Apostille the same as Authentication?
No. If the country your document is to be used in is not a member of The Hague Convention, there is a more involved process to have your documents authenticated and then legalized.
Authentication involves having your documents reviewed by state or county officials, then certified by State Department officials. From here, the process varies depending on whether you are legalizing public documents, such as certified copies of court documents, or private documents, such as corporate bylaws for a US company or a private contract.
Avoid costly, time-consuming mistakes and use a professional with experience in both obtaining apostilles and authentications.
What documents need an Apostille?
Common documents that may need an Apostille or Authentication in order to be used overseas include but are not limited to Certified Birth or Death certificates, Court orders, Marriage certificates, Diplomas, School transcripts, FBI reports, Criminal history, Power of Attorney, Wills, Car titles, Adoption dossier, Business documents, Certificates of Incorporation, Certificates of Origin, and Hiring documents.