Document Legalization Services in NYC
Legalization is the chain of steps that makes a New York document valid in another country. We handle the notarization and the New York filing, and we tell you what comes after for your destination.
Apostille from $199 · Notarization from $25 · Fully remote
For countries in the Hague Apostille Convention, legalization is one step: the apostille. For other countries the chain is longer and can include state authentication, federal authentication and then the embassy or consulate of the destination country. We handle the notarization and the New York State steps and explain what your country requires next, so nothing is rejected at the end.
When you need legalization
- The destination country is not in the Hague Apostille Convention
- An embassy or consulate has asked for legalization
- A court, employer or school abroad requires an authenticated document
- You were told to “legalize” a document and are not sure what that means
How it works with NotarEaseNYC
- Tell us the document and the country. We confirm whether it needs an apostille or full legalization.
- Notarize. We notarize your signature by live video, or the signature of the official who issued the document.
- New York State authentication. We file for the apostille or certificate of authentication.
- Next steps. If your country needs more, such as federal or embassy steps, we explain exactly what to do.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between legalization and an apostille?
An apostille is a single certificate accepted by countries in the Hague Convention. Legalization is the longer chain used for other countries, ending at the destination country’s embassy or consulate.
Can you legalize a document for me?
We handle the notarization and the New York State filing, and we explain the remaining steps for your destination country.
How long does legalization take?
The state step has its own processing time, see how long a New York apostille takes. Embassy steps add more.
Do I need a notary first?
For most private documents, yes. The notarized signature is what the state authenticates.
Related services and guides
Apostille ServiceDocument AuthenticationInternational DocumentsHow Long an Apostille TakesWhy Apostilles Get Rejected
NotarEaseNYC is a notary service, not a law firm. We cannot draft your document, give legal advice, explain its legal effect, or choose the right form or certificate for you. Your document must be complete before the session, and everything must be typed, not handwritten. Whether a receiving agency or company accepts a remote online notarization is up to them, so confirm before you book if you are unsure.