Apostille

We can process all types of Apostille documents that were originally recorded in California. Processing time could range from same day up to a maximum of five business days. Expedited processing is available for an extra fee.

Please contact me to discuss how I can help you with your Apostille needs. I look forward to working with you!

What is an Apostille?

An Apostille is a certification that a notary or other government officer’s signature, or seal is authentic on the document.

A document issued in the United States with a government officer's signature or seal may require an Apostille stamp. There are two types, State or Federal. We are able to process the paperwork for California State Apostille requests. This may include a notarized power of attorney or an original birth, marriage, divorce or death certificate. A Federal Apostille is required for Federal documents such as USA Passport or FBI Criminal Background check.

If requested, a document issued in the U.S. may require a state or federal apostille when it is going to be used in a foreign country that is part of the Hague Convention “Abolishing the Requirement of Consular Legalization for Foreign Public Documents of 1961”.

Who Needs a Apostille?

American citizens or foreign nationals, corporations and non-governmental organizations. 

What Kind of Documents Need an Apostille?

Apostilles are required for legal documents including (but not limited to) adoption papers, affidavits, birth certificates, contracts, death certificates, deeds, diplomas and degrees, divorce decrees, incorporation papers, marriage certificates, patent applications, powers of attorney, and school transcripts. 

Please note that I only process documents originally recorded in California.

What is the Process of Obtaining an Apostille?

The certification is a two step process where a notary public verifies the document signer’s identity and attaches their seal and signature. The Secretary of State certifies authenticity of the my signature, seal and the capacity in which I acted. The Office of the Secretary of State then attaches the Apostille stamped certificate to the document. The document and Apostille certificate is then returned to the notary public who sends the document to the foreign government, corporation, organization or individual.

Which Countries Participate in Apostille Certification?

Any member country of the Hague Convention “Abolishing the Requirement of Consular Legalization for Foreign Public Documents of 1961”. Under this Convention, member countries agree to facilitate the exchange and verification of documents, an apostille certification will be required for all member countries of the Hague convention.

Here is list countries that will accept an Apostille: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/status-table/?cid=41

What if the Country I Need an Authenticated Legal Document for is not on the Hague Convention List?

Countries that are not part of the Hague Convention can be provided a Federal Authentication Certificate. I do not provide services for Federal Authentication Certificates, but here is a link with more information: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/travel-legal-considerations/internl-judicial-asst/authentications-and-apostilles/authentication-certificate-requirements.html

What is the Cost of Obtaining an Apostille?

My Apostille processing fee is $55.00. The state fees and mailing and/or courier fees vary depending on how quickly the document is needed and the country to which the documents are being sent. I am happy to provide you a quote for these costs.

For a quote, please fill out the form below and mail it to: jmiller@lunalivescan.com.

Download Request an Apostille Quote Form