What is an Apostille?
An Apostille (pronounced “ah-po-steel”) is a French word meaning certification.
An Apostille is simply the name for a specialized certificate, issued by the Secretary of State. The Apostille is attached to your original document to verify it is legitimate and authentic so it will be accepted in one of the other countries who are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.
In the United States, all 50 states and the Federal Government (US Department of State – Office of Authentication) can issue an Apostille.
Why do I need to obtain an Apostille?
When a document is to be used in a foreign country, it may be necessary to have the document authenticated. An authentication certifies the signature and the capacity of the official who has executed the document. The authentication may also authenticate the seal of the official. Most member countries agree that a document which has been legalized with an Apostille Certificate in its country of origin will be accepted in any other member country. This removes the need for further evidence to be obtained to prove the documents authenticity.
The Secretary of State’s office provides authentication of public official signatures on documents to be used outside the United States of America. The country of destination determines whether the authentication is an Apostille or Certification.
The US Department of State – Office of Authentication authenticates signatures on all Federal Documents including documents which have received a certificate from their respective state.
Apostilles and Certifications only certify to the authenticity of the signature of the official who signed the document, the capacity in which that official acted, and when appropriate, the identity of the seal or stamp which the document bears. The Apostille or Certification does not validate the contents of the document.
Does my document require notarization?
Yes, On the Go Notary NJ will notarize the document *free of charge. (Must be local in-person notarization.)
If the document is already notarized, it must be properly notarized by a New Jersey notary. The original document is needed to present to the office of the Secretary of State.
What countries are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention?
Not all countries accept apostilles. Here is a list of countries that accept apostilles according to the Hague Convention.
What if the country I need to send my documents to are not parties to the Hague Apostille Convention?
If the country where the document will be used is NOT a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, the document will be sent to the U.S. Department of State to issue a Authentication Certificate in addition to the office of the Secretary of State. This process will take approximately 15 – 21 days, not including weekends or federal holidays.
**At this time, we are only processing Apostilles for countries apart of the Hague Convention.
How can On the Go Notary NJ help me obtain Apostilles?
We make the process easy by offering personalized Apostille Services, ensuring your certificate request is complete accurately and processed in the most timely manner. We can come to you to notarize your documents at your home, business or any other location convenient for you if the document(s) require notarization. You can also mail your documents directly to us if you are located outside of Morris County.
We can then take your documents and complete the entire process of obtaining the apostille. This includes all required forms and government fees required by the Secretary of State. We can have your apostilled documents back to you as soon as 72 hours during regular business days. Call us Now at 973-657-2898
Common documents that may need an apostille are:
Turn Around Time: 7-14 Days (3-5 Days Expedited) Timing can vary based on special situations.
- Academic Transcripts
- Adoption Documents
- Baptism and Confirmation Certificates
- Background checks
- Bills of Sale
- Certificate of Origin
- Certificates of Incorporation
- Certificates of Good Standing, Certified Copies
- Court Judgments
- Deeds and Titles
- Diplomas
- Identity Documents
- Letters of Invitation
- Naturalization Documents
- Passports
- Power of Attorney
- Trademarks and Patents
- Vital Records including Birth
- Divorce and Marriage Certificates
- Paternity Certificates
- Death Certificates
- Travel Consent Forms
- Articles of Incorporation
- Wills
