An apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of a public document so it can be used in another country. Apostilles are required for documents that will be used in countries that are part of the 1961 Hague Convention.
How does apostille service work?
- The state or federal agency that issued the document issues the apostille.
- The apostille is attached to the original document.
- The apostille verifies the signature, seal, and position of the official who issued the document.
When is an apostille needed?
- To apply for a visa
- To enroll in a school
- To get married in a foreign country
- To adopt a child in a foreign country
Examples of documents that may need an apostille:
birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, court orders, contracts, and educational diplomas.
In Texas
- The Texas Secretary of State’s Office issues apostilles for Texas public records.
- The Office of Authentications at the US State Department may need to further authenticate documents for countries that are not part of the Hague Convention.
