Apostille (ah-po-steel) is a form of authentication recognized internationally. It ensures that a signed document is valid in countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. In other words, it guarantees that the signature and any notarial stamps or seals on a document are genuine.

While the process of getting a legalized document varies widely by country, in most cases you can get an apostille in the USA by following the appropriate steps for the state in which the documents originate. The process takes between 4-14 business days based on the processing time of the apostille office in your state.

How to get an apostille in the USA

Generally, any official government document with an original signature/stamp/seal that is going to a country that is party to the Apostille Convention requires an apostille or authentication. This includes civil registration documents such as birth, marriage and death certificates; notarial documents; certifications of level of study and university degrees; patents; court orders and judgments; or any other document issued by a public authority. Documents that are not notarized or certified by a notary public may require additional county certification prior to obtaining an apostille.

If you need a document apostilled, please complete the Apostille Pop-Up Shop Request Cover Sheet and submit it to the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State’s office will partner with local counties to provide in-person Apostille services throughout the year. To find out when an Apostille Pop-Up Shop will be near you, visit this page often or subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates.