What Is an Apostille and Why Do People Need One?

What Is an Apostille and Why Do People Need One?

Category: Apostille Basics

Author: Cristian Munguia

Estimated Read Time: 2–3 minutes

Most people don’t know what an apostille is—until they’re told they need one. Here’s a simple breakdown.

If your client is trying to use a U.S. document in another country, whether it’s for marriage, school, adoption, or business, there’s a good chance that country will ask for something called an apostille.

So what is it?

📝 What’s an Apostille?

An apostille is a certificate issued by the Secretary of State that confirms a public document is legitimate and authentic. It’s internationally recognized by any country that’s part of the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention.

The apostille doesn’t change or validate the document’s content—it simply verifies the signature, seal, or stamp on it, making it legally acceptable overseas.

🌍 Who Uses Apostilles?

Apostilles are used when someone needs to submit a U.S. document abroad. Common situations include:

Studying abroad (diplomas, transcripts)

Marriage in another country (birth certificates, divorce decrees)

Starting a business overseas (corporate documents, powers of attorney)

Immigration or dual citizenship applications

International adoptions

Foreign property purchases

If the receiving country is a member of the Hague Convention, an apostille is the only thing needed. If it’s not a member, additional steps like embassy legalization are required.

🔑 How Do You Get One?

There are 3 steps:

1. Notarize the document (if needed)

2. Submit it to the Secretary of State in the state where it was issued or notarized

3. Receive the apostille (either by mail, in person, or through an apostille agent like you)

Some states now offer digital apostilles, and others allow walk-in or mail-in options.

💼 Why This Matters for Notaries & Apostille Agents

Here’s the part most people don’t realize:

A simple notarization can turn into four services:

✅ Notary

✅ Apostille

✅ Translation

✅ Shipping

That’s how one signature becomes a $300+ job when handled correctly. Helping someone get their apostille isn’t just a favor, it’s a premium, in-demand service.

Want to start offering apostille services the right way?

👉 [Enroll in our Apostille Class](https://www.apostilleclass.com) and learn how to do it legally, efficiently, and profitably.