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Notarization for Apostille Documents

Some private documents must be notarized before they can receive an apostille. A notary does not issue the apostille; the notarization creates the official notarial act that the apostille authority can authenticate.

Documents that often need notarization

Private documents such as powers of attorney, affidavits, consent letters, passport copies, corporate authorizations, and single status affidavits often need notarization before apostille processing.

Documents that usually need certified copies instead

Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates usually need a certified copy from the proper government agency, not a notarized photocopy.

Avoiding rejection

Do not notarize a document that should be submitted as a certified copy. Reviewing the document first helps prevent unnecessary notarization and apostille rejection.

Frequently asked questions

Notarization for Apostille Documents refers to the apostille process for this specific document or service need. The correct process depends on the document source, destination country, and whether notarization, certification, translation, or legalization is required.

Some private documents need notarization first, but vital records and many government-issued records usually need certified copies instead. The safest approach is to review the document before notarizing or mailing it.

Many apostille requests can be handled by mail when the document is properly prepared and eligible for the requested destination country.

Make sure the document is the correct version, properly certified or notarized, connected to the correct state or federal authority, and submitted for the correct destination country.

Translation requirements depend on the receiving country and agency. Some want the original document apostilled first, while others may require a notarized translation certification.

No. Apostilles are generally used for Hague countries. Non-Hague countries may require authentication and embassy or consulate legalization instead.

Need help with an apostille or legalization?

Send the document type, issuing state or federal agency, destination country, and deadline. We can help you identify the correct apostille, authentication, notarization, translation, or legalization path.

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Frequently Asked Questions