An apostille USA federal is a form of authentication that reduces the time and expense required to legalize documents for use abroad. It identifies the issuing authority and certifies that the signature appearing on the public document is genuine. It also identifies the capacity in which the person signed and the seal/stamp that appears on the document. Apostilles are used for countries that are party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (1961).

The process is much simpler than other forms of authentication. There are still some requirements, however. For example, documents that are notarized or certified by an official need to be authenticated by the US Department of State before an apostille can be issued. Additionally, some documents such as background checks require a full legalization process before they are acceptable for presentation in the country of destination.

Your Guide to Apostille for U.S. Federal-Level Documents

We handle a variety of document authentication services, including apostilles and full legalizations for both commercial and personal documents. Please contact Malakouti Law for a consultation and let us help you with your next steps!

Walk-in apostille/certificate of authentication service has resumed at the New York City, Albany and Utica customer service locations. Please visit the Walk-in Apostille/Certificate of Authentication page for more information.

Documents submitted for apostille or authentication must meet the requirements of The Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (1961). If you are not sure whether your documents require an apostille or full legalization, check with the country to which they will be presented to determine their requirements.