If someone told you a document needs an apostille, you probably had two questions: what is that, and how do I get one? Here is the plain-English answer for anyone dealing with paperwork headed overseas from New York.
1 What an apostille actually is
An apostille is an official certificate that verifies a document, and the notarization or signature on it, is genuine. It was created by an international treaty (the Hague Convention) so that a document issued in one member country is accepted in another without extra red tape. If the destination country is part of that treaty, an apostille is usually all you need.
2 When you need one
You typically need an apostille when you are sending an official document abroad for things like:
- Working or getting licensed in another country
- Studying overseas or transferring school records
- Getting married abroad
- Handling property, business, or legal matters in another country
- Adoption, dual citizenship, or immigration paperwork
3 Documents that can be apostilled
Common ones include diplomas and transcripts, birth and marriage certificates, powers of attorney, business documents, and legal agreements. Many of these must be notarized first before they qualify.
4 How to get an apostille in NYC
The process has a few steps, and getting the order wrong is the most common reason documents get rejected:
- The document is notarized (if it is not already an official certificate).
- If required, the County Clerk authenticates the notary.
- The New York Department of State issues the apostille.
- The finished document is returned to you.
5 How long it takes
Processing time depends entirely on the government agencies involved, and it can range from a few business days to a few weeks depending on volume and the type of document. Any timeline you see is an estimate, never a guarantee, because the state controls its own schedule. Priority handling can speed up the parts that are within our control.
6 Common questions
If the destination country is part of the Hague Convention, you need an apostille. If it is not, the document may need embassy or consular legalization instead. We can help you figure out which.
Does my document need to be notarized first?
Often, yes. Many documents must be notarized before they can be apostilled, which is why our process starts with notarization.
Can the whole thing be done remotely?
Yes. We notarize online and handle the filing and shipping, so you do not need to visit an office.
Do you guarantee acceptance?
No one can guarantee a government agency or foreign country will accept a document, but we make sure it is prepared and filed correctly to give it the best chance.
Need a document apostilled in NYC?
Skip the confusion. We notarize, file with the state, and ship your apostilled document back to you, from $199 plus government fees.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Apostille and legalization requirements vary by country and document type. Confirm your specific requirements before filing.