An apostille stamp is a long form certificate issued and attached by the Secretary of State that authenticated the official who has signed your document. The State will verify the originality of the document by searching for the signature, embossment, and key security features on the document to prevent fraud.
Documents issued by the County Clerk, State Registrar, Health Department, and Superior Court, will have an official seal of a public official who is authorized to sign the document. Court certified documents will have an original signature signed by the Deputy Clerk of the Court. A notarized document should contain the seal, signature, and notarial wording.
For example, if you are requesting an apostille on a birth certificate, the State will attach an apostille authenticating the official who has signed the birth certificate. The signature of the public official is usually from the County Clerk or the State Registrar. Keep in mind that the State will also examine the document for authenticity. If the State does not believe the document merits an apostille, it will be rejected. Also, there are a handful of States who have time restriction on documents. Both Virginia and Wisconsin will only apostille docments issued with the past twelve months.
The very first step is to contact our office. Our trained and knowledgeable staff are available Monday – Saturday from 8am to 7pm to answer your questions and to provide you easy to follow step by step instruction.
Obtaining an apostille can be complicated. Don’t leave this process to untrained employees or non-professionals who do not fully understand the Apostille process and the unique requirements of certain countries. Your paperwork could be rejected costing you time and money. Don’t let this happen to you!
Click to download our International Apostille Order Form. Our Apostille service is fast, convenient, and saves you time and money.
