Does my document need to be notarized before being apostilled?

Whether your document needs to be notarized before it can be apostilled depends on the type of document and the requirements of the issuing country. An Apostille is a form of authentication issued to documents for use in countries that participate in the Hague Convention of 1961. The process of obtaining an Apostille certifies the authenticity of the document's signature, the capacity in which the person signing the document acted, and the identity of any seal or stamp the document bears.

Here are some general guidelines:

1. Public Documents: Many public documents, such as birth certificates, court orders, or any other document issued by a public authority, can be apostilled without notarization. These documents must be certified by the competent authority in the country where the document was issued.

2. Private Documents: Private documents, such as power of attorney, company documents, or educational documents, often require notarization before they can be apostilled. The notarization process involves a notary public certifying the authenticity of the signatures on the document. After notarization, the document can then be submitted for the apostille.

3. Educational Documents: The process for educational documents can vary. Some countries require these documents to be notarized before they can be apostilled, while others may require a verification from the educational institution or a government authority before the apostille process.

4. Country-Specific Requirements: The requirements for an apostille can vary significantly from one country to another. It's essential to check the specific requirements of the country where the document was issued and the country where the document will be used.

If you need more specific information or assistance, it's advisable to contact the relevant authority in the country where the document was issued or contact us. We will be happy to help you!