What is an apostille?

An apostille is a specific type of authentication certificate issued under 

 If you need to use a U.S. document in a foreign country that is a member of the Hague Convention, you will likely need an apostille.  

 The authority that issues the apostille depends on the type of document:

• State-issued documents (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates, notarized documents): The Secretary of State in the state where the document was issued handles apostilles, according to the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS). 
• Federal documents (e.g., FBI background checks, federal court records): The U.S. Department of State handles apostilles. 

1. Identify the issuing authority: Determine whether your document needs an apostille from a state or the federal government. 
2. Obtain a certified copy: You'll likely need the original or a certified copy of the document from the issuing agency. 
3. Submit the document: Send the document, along with any required application forms and fees, to the appropriate agency. 
4. Wait for processing: Processing times vary depending on the agency and the type of document. 

Fees and processing times for obtaining an Apostille vary by state and the urgency of the request. For example, in New Jersey, standard service for a non-adoption related Apostille costs $25, while expedited service costs $40. Normal processing times can range from several weeks, but expedited services may be available for a higher fee

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