What Is an Apostille? Complete Definition and FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How Do I Get an Apostille?

To get an apostille, submit a certified copy of your document to the Secretary of the Commonwealth in your state, and they will apply the apostille to authenticate it for international use

What Is the Difference Between Apostille and Embassy Legalization?

Apostille is used for documents intended for countries in the Hague Apostille Convention, while embassy legalization is required for countries outside the convention.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Apostille?

It typically takes 5-10 business days for standard apostille processing. Expedited services are available for faster turnaround

Can I Apostille Documents from Other States?

Yes, you can apostille documents from other states by submitting them to the appropriate state office or using apostille services.

Do I Need Notarization for an Apostille?

Some documents, such as affidavits or powers of attorney, may require notarization before they can be apostilled, while others like birth certificates do not.

Can I Apostille a Copy of a Document?

Generally, only a certified copy of the document can be apostilled. The copy must be issued by an authorized government body, such as a city clerk or state office.

What Is an Apostille Stamp?

The apostille stamp is the official certification placed on a document to authenticate its validity for international use. It verifies that the document has been legally verified by an authorized government body.

Which Countries Accept Apostilles?

Countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention (1961) accept apostilles. Most countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia, and parts of Africa accept apostilles.

How do I get an apostille in Massachusetts?

You need to submit the original certified or notarized document to the office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth at One Ashburton Place, Room 1719, Boston, MA

Can Business Documents Be Apostilled?

Yes, you can apostille business documents such as certificates of good standing, articles of incorporation, and powers of attorney for international use. (Source: Harbor Compliance)

What if the Country Doesn’t Accept Apostilles?

If the country is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, you will need embassy legalization, which involves submitting your documents to the relevant embassy or consulate. (Source: U.S. Department of State)

Do I Need a Translation for Apostilled Documents?

Yes, many countries require a certified translation of apostilled documents, especially if the document is in English and the destination country speaks a different language. (Source: MiddlesexNotary.com)

What Are the Key Benefits of Apostille Authentication?

The main benefit of an apostille is that it simplifies the process of document authentication for international use, allowing your public documents (like birth certificates or marriage certificates) to be legally recognized by foreign countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. This avoids the need for embassy verification, making the process faster and more affordable.
Source: ApostilleMA.com

Can I Apostille Documents for Use in Non-Hague Convention Countries?

No, apostilles are only accepted in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. For countries outside the Convention, you will need to go through embassy legalization, where the document must be verified by the respective embassy or consulate.
Source: U.S. Department of State

Can I Apostille a Document That Has Already Been Notarized?

Yes, if the document has been notarized, it may be eligible for an apostille, provided it is a public document and properly certified. Affidavits, powers of attorney, and other private documents that are notarized typically require an apostille to confirm their authenticity for use abroad.
Source: MiddlesexNotary.com

What Types of Documents Cannot Be Apostilled?

Private documents such as personal letters or handwritten notes cannot be apostilled. Only public documents, such as birth certificates, court documents, and certified records, are eligible for apostille processing.
Source: U.S. Department of State

If my document is already translated, do I still need an apostille?

Yes, if your document is in English and needs to be used in a country that does not speak English, it may require a certified translation. While the translation itself may need notarization, the original document will still require an apostille to verify its authenticity for international use.
Source: Harbor Compliance

What documents do I need to apostille for immigration purposes?

For immigration, you may need an apostille on documents such as your birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption papers, and academic transcripts. The apostille ensures these documents are recognized by the immigration authorities of the country you are applying to.
Source: U.S. Department of State

What should I do if my apostille request is rejected?

If your apostille is rejected, check if the document meets the necessary signature or seal requirements. In some cases, the document may need to be reissued or corrected. It's best to contact the relevant office to understand the exact reason for the rejection and make any necessary changes before resubmitting.
Source: Harbor Compliance

What happens if a document is uncertified or lacks a proper seal/signature?

Such a document cannot be apostilled. Massachusetts requires original certified or notarized documents with proper seals or signatures. If the document lacks these, you must get a certified copy or proper notarization before submission.

Do I need an apostille for personal use documents?

Yes, if you're using a personal document like a birth certificate or marriage certificate abroad, you will need an apostille to ensure it’s recognized for immigration, legal, or business purposes.
Source: Travel.state.gov