Apostilles / Authentications

As a result of the Hague Convention held in the Netherlands (1961), there is an internationally accepted method to legitimize documents between countries by the use of “Apostilles” also referred to as “Authentications” or “Legalizations.” This method involves the attaching of an apostille to a notarized or certified document, thus giving the document authentication and legitimacy that is recognized by over 100 countries and related-territories that participated in the convention. Some countries may require authentication with a gold seal or recognized stamp in addition to or in place of the apostille attachment.

Corporate documents such as Certificates of Good Standings and Articles of Incorporation must be certified by the Secretary of State prior to getting an apostille. Non-certified documents often require the use of a notary prior to receiving an apostille. Not all documents can be apostilled; the most common types include corporate charter documents, birth certificates, marriage certificates, and educational institutionally-based documents.

Whether you need an apostille to open an international bank account or for international corporate transactions, Registered Agent Solutions, inc. (RASi) has the experience and methods to get your document(s) apostilled. Contact a representative in our Client Services Department for more information or to get your document(s) apostilled expediently.