Learn about Apostille
Apostille is a method of certifying that a document is authentic for use outside the United States. It's a product of the Hague Convention (Wikipedia) and is used for countries who are party to the Hague treaty (us.gov website). While primarily about adoption and human trafficking, the treaty also laid out s specific process for document verification which we call Apostille. The main thing to know is that it is verifying that the notarization was done by properly a commissioned notary, within the laws of that state.
Apostille Appointments
Apostille services can take up to 10 business days, but are usually completed much faster.
Your document must have originated in Michigan, and must be notarized by a Michigan notary (unless it's a vital record, in which case it doesn't get notarized at all).
Service starts at $150 and includes:
-
1-2 Notarizations, in-person or online
-
Travel to the notary appointment
-
Travel to the Secretary of State
-
Travel to the post office, or return drop-off of the document depending on location
-
Standard packaging of documents
Actual shipping and additional travel fees may apply.
Invoices are payable at the notarization appointment. If additional costs are incurred beyond the invoiced amounts, an additional invoice will be sent.
You will need:
-
The document you need apostilled
-
State- or Federally-issued government ID with photo and signature
-
The destination country