How To Get An Apostille

When told that you need a document legalized, your first question might be, "how do I get an apostille?" This article will explain what, exactly, is an apostille and also give you directions on how to get one for your documents.

First of all, what is an apostille?

An apostille is a form of legalizing documents for international use. You are required to get one if you're going to use a document in another country. An apostille verifies that your document originated from the proper authorities. The receiving country can know with certainty that your documents came from your home country. Note that an apostille or legalization does not authenticate the actual contents of the document.

The most common documents that need to be authenticated are birth certificates, marriage certificate, diplomas, police records and corporate papers. But in theory, any document can be apostilled.

What's the difference between an apostille and traditional legalization?

Both are forms of document authentication. The apostille is a special form that eliminates the need to contact the foreign embassy. Basically, with the Hague Convention, countries have agreed to use and recognize the apostille. If your country is not a member of the Hague Convention, then you will need to get an embassy legalization which requires two steps.

How to get an apostille:

1.       Determine if you need an apostille or embassy legalization. (Do a search for "Hague convention apostille countries" and you should find a list.)

2.       Locate the correct authorities. (Typically the secretary of state will handle apostilles and your local foreign embassy will take care of embassy legalizations.)

3.       Make sure your document qualifies. (It shouldn't be too old and it should have the proper notary or certification).

4.       Create a plan to get your authentication completed and returned within your preferred timeframe. (Many people need them back fast!)