What is an Apostille, and why do I need one?

An Apostille is how a public legal document is certified for international use; it means that a notary has verified that the signatures and seals from the document are from competent authorities.

It may be required for administrative documents, birth, marriage and death certificates, patents, court rulings, academic diplomas, etc.

Apostilles may ONLY be issued by a COMPETENT AUTHORITY DESIGNATED BY THE STATE on whose territory the public document has been executed.

For more information on this subject visit: www.hcch.net Specialized Sections or Authories.

For information on how to get an Apostille visit www.sdcounty.ca.gov and look for Noraty Public Services.