Question 1

What is an apostille?

Accepted Answer

An apostille is a certificate issued by a designated government authority that authenticates the origin of a public document — such as the signature or seal on it — so it can be recognized in another country that participates in the Hague Apostille Convention.

Question 2

What documents can be apostilled?

Accepted Answer

Generally, public documents such as certified vital records, court records, and state-issued certificates, plus private documents that have been properly notarized. Some documents need certified copies or notarization first. See our Documents We Assist With page for common examples.

Question 3

How long does apostille processing take?

Accepted Answer

Timing depends on the issuing authority, document type, and delivery method, and government offices set their own processing schedules. We'll share what to expect for your document when we prepare your quote, but we cannot guarantee completion dates.

Question 4

Can you help with documents issued outside New York?

Accepted Answer

Yes. State-issued documents generally must be apostilled by the authority in the state that issued them, and federal documents follow a federal process. We coordinate submission to the correct authority through our nationwide service.

Question 5

Can I mail my documents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer mail-in assistance for clients throughout the United States. After you request a quote, we'll send instructions on how to send your documents.

Question 6

Can you pick up my documents?

Accepted Answer

Scheduled pickup is available in New York City and surrounding areas where available. Let us know your location when you request a quote.

Question 7

Do you offer expedited services?

Accepted Answer

Priority assistance may be available for eligible urgent requests. It is subject to document eligibility, government processing schedules, and courier availability, so completion dates cannot be guaranteed.

Question 8

Do educational documents need notarization?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Many diplomas and transcripts must first be notarized or certified by the school's registrar before an apostille can be requested. Requirements vary by state and institution.

Question 9

Can FBI background checks receive apostilles?

Accepted Answer

Yes, FBI Identity History Summaries can generally be apostilled. Because they are federal documents, they are processed by the U.S. Department of State rather than a state office.

Question 10

How much does an apostille cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing depends on the issuing authority, document type, processing requirements, and delivery method. Request a free quote and we'll provide a personalized price.

Question 11

Will my original documents be returned?

Accepted Answer

The apostille is typically attached to the document submitted, and we coordinate return delivery of your documents with their apostille certificates once processing is complete.

Question 12

What countries accept apostilles?

Accepted Answer

Apostilles are generally intended for use between countries that participate in the Hague Apostille Convention — over 120 countries. Confirm with the receiving authority in your destination country.

Question 13

Do you offer assistance in Spanish?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We proudly serve clients in both English and Spanish.

Question 14

What if my destination country does not accept apostilles?

Accepted Answer

Countries outside the Hague Convention may require authentication or legalization instead, which can involve additional steps such as embassy or consulate legalization. Contact us and we'll help you understand the next steps.

Question 15

Can you help with a document not listed on your website?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Tell us what your document is and where it will be used, and we'll let you know whether and how we can assist.

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