When a document needs to be used internationally, it may need an apostille or certificate of authentication in addition to a notary. This is a separate process that verifies signatures on public documents for use in foreign countries that are members of the 1961 Hague Convention. A Notary and apostille are legally binding in foreign countries and verify the authenticity of official signatures, the capacity in which they signed, and any seal or stamp on the document. It is not the same as a notarization and is more involved.

Notary and Apostille Services: What You Need to Know

A notarization is a process where a notary public, an official commissioned by the state government, witnesses a document signing. The notary public will verify the identity of the signers and witness their signatures. They will then add a notary seal or stamp to the document to show that they verified the signatures and witnessed the signing. This is commonly done for documents that will be used in the United States. The notary is also responsible for making sure the signers were aware that they were signing a document and that they were freely and willingly doing so.

An apostille, on the other hand, is a higher level of authentication that can only be done by the Secretary of State in the country where the document originated or by the US Department of State for federal documents. The process is more detailed than a notarization and can be more time-consuming. Documents that need an apostille are usually more important and will be used internationally. These include international diplomas, official transcripts and graduation verification letters, affidavits and other court documents, and FBI background checks.

Freedom Mobile Notary & Colorado Apostille Services LLC
Phone: +17206693136