The process of authenticating documents for use abroad is often complex and time-consuming. A key step in this process is obtaining an apostille, a form of verification that guarantees a document’s authenticity and legality for use in countries that are members of the Hague Convention of 1961. The NDNY is proud to offer robust apostille services to residents and businesses in New York, including walk-in options and reasonable processing times. This article will cover what you need to know about federal document apostille services, including what is included in an apostille, processing times and associated costs.

An Apostille Verifies the Signature and Seal or Stamp of a Document

An apostille is a form of authentication that guarantees a document’s authenticity and legally recognizes it in countries that are part of the Hague Convention of 1961. An apostille certifies the authenticity of a signature, confirming the capacity in which the signatory acted and verifying the identity of any seal or stamp that appears on the document.

The apostille may be affixed to the document itself or on a separate page known as an allonge. The apostille must bear the official seal and have a clear impression. The seal should contain the notary’s name, the name of the county in which the notary was commissioned, the words “Notary Public,” and the state where the notary is licensed to practice. The apostille may be affixed with glue, rubber stamps, (multi-colored) ribbons, a grommet, or self-adhesive stickers.