An Apostille:

• Simplifies International Document Use: An Apostille is used to certify the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the person signing the document acted, and, if applicable, the identity of the stamp or seal the document bears. This process eliminates the need for further certification or legalization by the embassy or consulate of the foreign country where the document is to be used.

• Issued by Designated Authorities: In the United States, Apostilles are typically issued by the Secretary of State's office in the state where the document was notarized or issued. For federal documents, the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., is the issuing authority.

• Applicable to Member Countries: Apostilles are only recognized between countries that are signatories to the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961, an international treaty that simplifies the process of document authentication for cross-border use. If the country where the document will be used is not a member of this convention, a different process called legalization is required, which usually involves multiple steps through different government offices.

• Commonly Used Documents: Documents often requiring an Apostille include birth and marriage certificates, adoption papers, court orders, powers of attorney, diplomas, and business documents like articles of incorporation.