Where Can I Get a Document Apostille? A Step-by-Step Guide to U.S. Apostille Services

What Is a Document Apostille?

Apostille vs. Notarization: What You Need to Know

An apostille is a government-issued certificate that verifies the authenticity of a public document so it can be used internationally. It confirms that the signature, seal, or stamp on the document is genuine. This process is used only for countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

People often confuse apostilles with notarization, but they serve different purposes. Notarization is a domestic process that verifies signatures, while an apostille authenticates the document for international recognition. In some cases, a document might need both notarization and an apostille, depending on the destination country.

Why Apostilles Matter for International Use

Apostilles are crucial when you need to use U.S. documents abroad. Whether it’s a birth certificate for a citizenship application or a business contract for an overseas deal, many foreign institutions won’t accept your documents unless they’re apostilled.

Without an apostille, your documents may be rejected or cause serious delays. It ensures your paperwork is legally valid and saves you from having to go through foreign embassy legalization procedures, which can be more complex. For a list of countries that accept apostilles, visit the HCCH official site.

Where Can I Get a Document Apostille?

Government Agencies That Issue Apostilles

In the United States, apostilles are issued by the Secretary of State in each state for state-level documents. For documents issued by federal agencies, the U.S. Department of State is responsible for issuing apostilles. Their process, requirements, and fees may vary depending on your document and jurisdiction.

More information about federal apostilles can be found on the U.S. State Department website. Make sure to follow their guidelines carefully, especially if your document was issued outside your home state.

The Complicated Way: Doing It Yourself

It is possible to get a document apostilled on your own, but it requires several steps and careful attention to detail. First, you’ll need to obtain a certified or original copy of your document. Then, submit it to the appropriate state or federal office with the correct forms and payment.

This process can be time-consuming, and mistakes—like using the wrong type of document or sending it to the wrong agency—can lead to delays. You’ll also need to deal with mailing logistics, wait times, and tracking. For those unfamiliar with government paperwork, the process can feel overwhelming.

The Easy Way: Using a Professional Apostille Service

Professional apostille services simplify the entire process by handling everything on your behalf. At EZ Apostille, we manage document checks, submissions, and delivery, ensuring your paperwork is done right the first time.

Our team has experience with all 50 states and federal apostille procedures. We work directly with issuing authorities and keep you informed at every stage. If you’re looking for fast, accurate, and nationwide support, check out our apostille services.

Types of Documents We Can Apostille

Personal Documents

We help apostille a wide range of personal records, including:

• Birth and death certificates
• Marriage and divorce documents
• Adoption records
• Powers of attorney

These documents are often required for visas, citizenship, overseas weddings, or legal proceedings abroad. We make sure your personal documents are properly certified and ready for international use.

Academic and Business Documents

In addition to personal records, we also process:

• Diplomas and school transcripts
• Corporate bylaws and meeting minutes
• Articles of incorporation
• Commercial invoices and contracts

Whether you’re studying overseas or expanding your business globally, these apostilles ensure your documents are legally recognized abroad.

Our Apostille Process: Simple and Secure

Step 1: Send Us Your Document

Getting started is easy. Just send us a scan or photo of your document for a free review. We’ll confirm what’s needed and guide you through the next steps. Once verified, you can mail or drop off the original document, depending on requirements.

We also provide translation services if the destination country requires it. Every document is handled with care and confidentiality.

Step 2: We Handle the Certification and Apostille

Once we receive your document, we manage all the necessary steps:

• Verify certification requirements
• Submit to the correct authority
• Monitor the process to avoid delays

We work directly with state and federal agencies, which helps speed things up and minimize errors. As one of our team members says, “You could spend hours navigating forms—or you could let us do it right the first time.”

Step 3: You Get It Back—Fast and Ready for Use

When the apostille is complete, we send it back securely to your preferred address. Most documents are processed within a few business days, depending on the issuing state or agency. Expedited options are available.

We also offer digital tracking, so you’re never in the dark about where your document is. Our goal is to make the process as quick and stress-free as possible.

Why Choose EZ Apostille

Nationwide Coverage, Expert Support

We work with all 50 states and Washington D.C., which means we can help regardless of where your document was issued. Our experts are trained in the unique apostille requirements of each jurisdiction.

We stay up to date on legal and regulatory changes to ensure your documents meet international standards. This means less worry and faster results for you.

Trackable, Reliable, and Error-Free

We double-check every submission for accuracy, which helps reduce rejections or delays. Each case is handled with personal attention, and you can track your order in real-time.

If you need help, our support team is just a phone call or email away. We’re here to answer questions and solve issues before they become problems.

Trusted by Thousands of Clients

Our clients include individuals, businesses, law firms, and academic institutions. We’ve successfully processed thousands of apostilles for a wide range of documents.

Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we’re committed to making it simple. With EZ Apostille, you’re in good hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take?

Most apostilles are completed within 3–5 business days once we receive your document. Some states offer expedited processing, which we can arrange if you’re in a rush.

Shipping times vary depending on your location and selected delivery method. We’ll provide estimated timelines before you commit.

What If My Document Is From a Different State?

No problem. We work with issuing authorities in every U.S. state. Just let us know where your document was issued, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Each state has slightly different rules, but we’ve streamlined the process so you don’t have to worry about it.

Can You Apostille Translations Too?

Yes, we can. If your document requires translation, we offer certified translation services. In many cases, the translation itself may also need to be apostilled separately, depending on the destination country.

We’ll guide you through every step so your translated documents are accepted without issue.

Get Started Today

If you’re wondering where to get a document apostille, the answer is simple: let us help. EZ Apostille takes the hassle out of international document authentication. Whether it’s personal, academic, or business paperwork, we’re ready to assist.

Start your apostille process today with our fast and secure apostille services.