Steps to Apostille Federal Documents
When a document requires verification for use in another country, it may require an authentication or apostille. This process is designed to simplify the authenticating chain and streamline international business transactions. Authentication and apostilles are not interchangeable processes and cater to different needs. This article explores the steps to apostille federal documents and offers helpful tips to get yours processed.
Identify the Correct Issuing Authority
The type of document determines which authority is designated to authenticate it. Private documents (individual or corporate) can be authenticated by an office, typically the Secretary of State’s office. State/county-issued public documents are usually authenticated by a department, the same one that issued it. Federally-issued documents are authenticated by the U.S. Department of State’s Authentication Office.
Prepare the Document (Notarize If Required)
Before submitting a document for apostille, it is essential to ensure that it is the final signed version. It is also important to have the document notarized to avoid any rejections due to incorrect notarization or signatures. Incorrect submissions can delay processing and increase the chance of rejection.
Submit to Authorities
The document should be submitted for apostille to the authorities designated by the issuing authority, either the Secretary of State or the U.S. Department of State for a federal apostille or the department that issued the document for a state/county-level apostille. Once the apostille has been approved, the document is ready for use in foreign jurisdictions. If full legalization is required, the document can then be sent to the foreign country’s embassy for that process. For more information about the apostille process, visit the Hague Apostille Convention website.
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