Apostille Services
Need documents recognized in another country? We guide you through the apostille process — from notarization through Ohio Secretary of State authentication — so your documents are accepted internationally.
What Is an Apostille?
Official Authentication for Global Use
An apostille is a form of authentication issued to documents for use in countries that participate in the Hague Convention of 1961. It certifies the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the person signing acted, and the identity of any seal or stamp on the document.
In Ohio, apostilles are issued by the Secretary of State's office. We handle the notarization step and can guide you through the full process to get your documents properly authenticated.
- Accepted in 120+ Hague Convention member countries
- We notarize your document at your location
- Guidance on Ohio Secretary of State submission
- Efficient turnaround — we know the process
- All document types accepted
Documents We Authenticate
Don't see your document type? Call us — we can advise on whether an apostille applies to your situation.
The Process
How Apostille Authentication Works
Notarize Your Document
We notarize your original document or a certified copy at your location.
County Clerk Certification
The document is certified by the county clerk where the notary is commissioned.
Ohio Secretary of State
The apostille is issued by the Ohio Secretary of State, authenticating the notary's credentials.
Ready for International Use
Your document is now recognized in all Hague Convention member countries.
Common Questions
Apostille FAQs
How long does the apostille process take?
After notarization, the Ohio Secretary of State typically processes apostille requests within 5–10 business days for standard service, or 1–2 days for expedited service.
Do I need an apostille or a notarization?
If your document is being used in a Hague Convention country, you likely need an apostille. For domestic use only, a standard notarization is sufficient. Not sure? Call us and we'll help you figure it out.
Can you handle the full apostille process for me?
We handle the notarization step and provide guidance on submitting to the Ohio Secretary of State. For full-service apostille processing, we can recommend trusted document services.
Ready to Get Started?
We'll notarize your documents and walk you through the rest of the apostille process.