What Is An Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, notarized document, court order, or other legal documents, for use in other countries.
![A notary public stamping a document with their seal](assets/img/apostille2.jpg)
What is the Purpose of an Apostille?
The purpose of an apostille is to certify the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the person signing the document has acted, and the identity of any seal or stamp affixed to the document. Essentially, it verifies that the document is legitimate and can be recognized in other countries that are part of the Hague Convention, without further authentication.
![A notary public viewing the document before stamping](assets/img/apostille3.jpg)
Each country has its own designated authority responsible for issuing apostilles, typically a government office or department. Once attached to a document, an apostille ensures that the document will be accepted as valid in any other country that is a member of the Hague Convention, thus simplifying the process of international document verification.
Why Are Apostilles Necessary?
Apostilles are necessary for several reasons: International Recognition, Simplified Legalization Process, Legal Security and Trust, and Facilitation of International Transactions.
When is an Apostille Needed?
An apostille is typically needed when a document issued in one country needs to be used in another country. Example of documents that need an apostille:
Birth certificate apostille, marriage certificate apostille, diploma apostille, transcript apostille, power of attorney apostille, notarized document apostille, court judgement apostille, corporate document apostille, death certificate apostille, police clearance apostille, divorcee decree apostille, single status affidavit apostille, copy of U.S. Passport apostille, driving record apostille, social security apostille, high school transcripts apostille, college transcripts apostille, name change apostille, authorization of agent apostille, travel consent letter apostille, certificate of naturalization apostille, certificate of naturalization USCIS Form G-24 apostille, FBI background check apostille, US Coast Guard letters apostille, vehicle title registration apostille, car title apostille, us patent and trademarks apostille, articles of incorporation apostille, bylaws apostille, certificate of free sale apostille, certificate to foreign government apostille, federal aviation administration letters apostille, IRS form 6166 apostille, national archives apostille, certificate of origin and commercial invoice apostille, certificate of incumbency apostille, will and trust apostille, corporate power of attorney apostille.
Can A Notary Public Issue an Apostille?
No, however, they can facilitate the process of getting a document(s) apostilled by the secretary of state of California. If you need a document to be apostilled please book an appointment today. Mobile Notary Public & Apostille San Diego has same day service.
![A couple signing documents in front of a notary public](assets/img/apostille4.jpg)