Documents used professional document legalization require an authentication or apostille for use in another country. The requirements for an apostille vary by country and the type of document. Consultation with an expert is crucial to determine the correct authentication process for your documents, and to avoid errors that could delay or even invalidate your apostille application.
The first step in determining whether your document requires an apostille is to identify the issuer of the document. Private (individual or corporate) documents and state/county-issued documents are authenticated by the designated authority, typically a Secretary of State office in the state where the document was issued. Federally-issued documents, such as FBI background checks and patent documents, are authenticated by the U.S. Department of State Authentication Office in Washington, DC. Their website lists their fees, requirements and address.
Federal Apostille for Adoption Papers
If your document is intended for use in a country that is not part of the 1961 Hague Convention, additional steps are required after obtaining an apostille. This includes embassy legalization at a foreign embassy or consulate. This process can be complicated and time consuming, but it is necessary to ensure that your document meets the requirements of the receiving jurisdiction.
When submitting a document for apostille, make sure that it is signed by a notary public and has a valid seal. Apostilles can be issued for notarized original and certified copies of documents. Additionally, certain documents must be notarized prior to apostilling, including tax documents and letters from the IRS.