Authentication and Legalization Resources
To learn more about how we can assist with your authentication, consular legalization or apostille needs, visit our Authentication, Legalization and Apostille Services page.
Countries and Territories that are Party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization
A memo listing countries that accept documents with apostilles.
National Notary Association
A great resource about the available options for remote notarization.
FAQ
How do I get an Apostille or Authentication and Legalization?
Your first step is going to be to know which type of certification you require.
You’ll need apostille services if your destination country is a part of the Hague Convention and document authentication and legalization services if the country is not.
Requirements for getting your certification, regardless of which type it is, are set by the destination country and vary from nation to nation.
How do I provide proof that my document’s certifications and seals are valid?
When you’re using an official US document overseas, you’ll need proof that the document’s certifications and seals are valid. There are 2 main ways to provide that proof:
- A Hague Convention Apostille, a certificate attached by a Competent Authority (often the Secretary of State) that states the signatures and stamps of the government officials on your documents are valid. This simpler method is currently accepted by more than 110 countries and was agreed upon in the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement.
- Authentication of the signatures on your documents by the originating jurisdiction, followed by document legalization at the consulate or embassy of the destination country. US Department of State Authentication is also often a necessary step in this process.
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