Welcome to our Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining an Apostille

An Apostille (Pronounced "Ap-pos-steel" and "Ap-pos-stee") is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document, such as a birth certificate, Power of Attorney, diploma, or business contract, so that the document will be accepted in countries that are members of the Hague Convention of 1961. 

A Certificate of Authentication is similar to an Apostille but is used in non-Hague countries.

Common documents:

• Apostille Special Power of Attorney
• Apostille FBI Background Checks 
• Apostille Academic Certificates and Transcripts
• Apostille Birth Certificates
• Apostille Marriage Certificates
• Apostille Death Certificates
• Apostille Divorce Decrees
• Apostille Business Contracts
• Apostille Export Certificates
• Apostille Religious Documents
• Apostille many other types of documents

You can get an apostille from the designated competent authority in the state where the document was originally issued.

Each state has its own office that handles the apostille process. 

The requirements for getting an apostille can vary depending on the type of document and the issuing state or country.   

It's important to check the specific requirements for your state and the destination country, as they can differ. 

1. Document Verification: Before obtaining an apostille, ensure that your document has been properly notarized by a commissioned notary public in your state or signed by some other public official. This step is crucial as the apostille verifies the authenticity of the public official’s signature. Our team of experienced notaries provides complimentary local CA notarizations in the apostille process.
2. Choose the Right Service Provider: It is important to choose a reliable apostille service provider to facilitate a smooth apostille process. The Apostille & Notary Experts are an experienced team that has a deep understanding of the requirements and regulations ensuring your documents are processed correctly and efficiently.
3. Submit Your Documents for Review: Email us your documents to receive a complimentary review to ensure that your documents have everything they need to avoid rejection. Depending on the type of document(s), you may need to provide additional information. Our team can guide you through this step to avoid errors or delays in handling your apostille request.
4. Schedule your No-Commitment Consultation. Book an appointment with The Apostille & Notary Experts so that we can discuss your documents, arrange document pickup, and answer any questions you may have.
5. Fees for Services: There are fees associated with obtaining the apostille. Fees can vary depending on the type of document and the destination country. Our team will provide you with a clear breakdown of the costs involved.
6. Processing Time. Rest assured, our team will monitor the progress of your documents and keep you updated. Using our apostille service will provide considerable time savings over mailing.
7. Delivery:  The apostille will be issued by the designated competent authority and attached to your document(s). Your apostilled documents will be delivered according to your pre-arranged or agreed-upon instructions.

It is very important that you are able to provide the following information:

1. The destination country of your document.
2. The originating state of your document. For example, if you need an apostille for a birth certificate, the state that's listed on the birth certificate is the originating state, even though you may live in a different state.
3. The type of document that needs the apostille (Vital record, FBI background check, Special Power of Attorney, etc.).
4. Whether or not your document needs translating into another language, if you need witnesses, additional signers located in other cities/states, notarizations, supporting documents, etc.
5. The number of documents that need an apostille.
6. The turnaround time that you need the completed apostilled documents in your hands or delivered to the destination country.

There may be delays in document processing during peak seasons such as the Summer months (June through September) and Holidays (November through January).

Due to possible delays, it is highly advised that you do not book any travel or events, secure any property, etc. until your documents have the proper apostille and/or authentication approval.