Whether you travel, study or do business overseas, proper document authentication is an essential step to ensure legal recognition abroad. Apostille service streamlines international document legalization, providing peace of mind and saving time and effort.

An document apostille service is an internationally recognized form of authentication that confirms the authenticity of a public document for use in countries that are parties to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (1961). An Apostille verifies the signature and capacity of the official who issued the document.

Apostille Documents: Everything You Need to Know

Not all documents require an apostille, but those that do should be carefully reviewed before sending them for authentication. It’s also important to know what to expect from your chosen apostille service, as not all offices will handle all document types.

For example, divorce decrees must be authenticated by the county Clerk of Court’s office in order to receive an apostille from the GSCCCA. In addition, certain federal documents need to be authenticated by the U.S. Department of State or by your state’s Secretary of State.

The GSCCCA offers walk-in apostille services in our New York City, Albany and Utica customer service centers. You can also request an apostille by mail. If you plan to submit your document by mail, please review the GSCCCA Apostille / Certificate of Authentication request form and include a copy of the document(s), a notarized letter specifying where and why it is being sent and a prepaid, self-addressed envelope or airbill for return.