Authenticate an official document for use outside the U.S.

An apostille or an authentication certificate verifies signatures, stamps, or seals on important documents. These documents can include court orders, contracts, vital records, educational diplomas, and more.

The country you will use the document in determines whether you will need an apostille or an authentication certificate.

When you need an apostille

If the country where you want to use your document is on the 1961 Hague Convention member list, you will need an apostille.

• Documents such as vital records issued by a U.S. state will need an apostille from that state's secretary of state.
• Federal documents will need an apostille from the U.S. Department of State.

Learn the steps to take to get an apostille.

When you need an authentication certificate

If the country where you want to use your document is not on the 1961 Hague Convention member list, you will need an authentication certificate.

Learn about authentication certificates, including:

• Types of state and federal documents requiring authentication
• The process of getting an authentication certificate
• Checking the status of your document