Let’s say your son is set to start college in Spain or you just got a new job offer in Italy. Suddenly, there are a lot of documents that all need to be officially checked. This is where the Apostille process comes in. If you’ve ever glanced at your pile of official papers and wondered how they’re supposed to become “Apostilled,” you’re not alone. More info about this page!

First, let me explain what an Apostille is in detail. It is basically a certificate that guarantees the validity of your public record for use in over 100 countries that have signed the Hague Convention. Think of it as a VIP backstage pass; without it, your paperwork won’t go in.

First, figure out which document you need to get verified. Is there a birth certificate involved? A degree? A powerful lawyer? The Apostille only applies to documents that have been signed by an official, like a notary public, a government office, or a court. If you bring Grandma’s lasagna recipe, be ready to be turned down (although the cashier might ask for more).

You should figure out where to take your paper for the magic stamp after you get it. In the US, this usually comes from the Secretary of State’s office in your state. Most questions are answered at the state level, not the national level. You should only go to the federal building if your documentation is for the federal government. Put a prepaid envelope in with your documentation if you want to send it by mail. Otherwise, your papers could stay at the state office for a long time.

There are fees. The cost is not too high, usually between $10 to $20 per document, although it can vary based on where you are and what it is. Getting information from your state’s website will help you prevent complications later on. Some places take up to two weeks, whereas others process everything on the same day. If you’re short on time, plan ahead of time or think about faster services, even though they cost more.