A single stamp can cost you a lot when you are planning to use your documents in a foreign country. Apostille Services are very important in the aspect of making your personal and business documents legally recognized in the other countries. However, to most people and companies, the apostille process is confusing, time consuming and daunting.

In Attest Astute, we make the Apostille Services easier by taking all the procedures accurately, transparently, and fast. Moving abroad, growing your company, or filing the paperwork to be used internationally, this guide will take you through all the things you need to know- clearly and confidently.

What Are Apostille Services and What Is Their relevance?

The Apostille Services are the official verification of documents to be used in the countries that are signatories of the Hague Apostille Convention. An apostille authenticates the signature, seal or stamp on any given document and renders it legally binding in a foreign member country.

Your documents can be rejected by:

• Foreign governments
• Higher learning institutions.
• Employers and immigration departments.
• Foreign business associates.

In simple terms, Apostille Services eliminate legal obstacles and make sure that your documents are accepted worldwide.

Knowing the Hague Apostille Convention

The Hague Convention of 1961 came up with the apostille system that was used to remove the long procedures of legalizing the embassy. Member countries to this convention receive apostilled documents without further embassy certification.

Apostille attestation suffices in case your country of destination is a member of the Hague Convention. Otherwise, legalization of embassies or consulates can be necessary. This early knowledge will save you time and unwarranted expenses.

Documents under the Apostille Services

Apostille Services are applicable to a large list of personal and business documents. All categories require their own requirements and steps to process.

Personal Documents Apostille Services

Individual document apostille is usually needed in immigration, education and family matters. These include:

• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Divorce decrees
• Death certificates
• Police clearance certificates (PCC)
• Educational certificates

All documents should be of a particular format and be issued by an authority before submission to apostille.

Educational Certificate Apostille Services

Educational certificates are usually apostilled in case of employment abroad or advanced studies. Types of commonly apostle certificates are:

• Degree certificates
• Diplomas
• Transcripts
• School leaving certificates.

Educational apostille services typically involve confirmation of the issuing institution prior to the ultimate apostille approval. 

Apostille Services of Commercial Documents

Companies that are going global are dependent on commercial Apostille Services to conduct business on a legal basis in other countries. These documents may include:

• Power of Attorney
• Memorandum of Association
• Articles of Incorporation
• Commercial invoices
• Board resolutions

Commercial apostille will provide you with the assurance that your business papers will be accepted without any legal challenges by the foreign authorities.

Description of the Apostille Process Step by Step

Although the requirements can be different in the countries, the process of the apostille is usually structured.

Step 1: Document Verification

To ensure authenticity the issuing authority or concerned department validates the document.

Step 2: Government Authentication

Authentication can be performed by a state or central authority depending on the type of document.

Step 3: Apostille Issuance

The apostille stamp or certificate is issued by the designated authority and the document is therefore valid internationally.

Professional Apostille Services make sure that this is done the first time.

What is the Turnaround Time of Apostille?

Processing time is determined by a number of factors such as the type of document and country of origin. Typical timelines include:

• Personal documents: 3-7 working days.
• Educational certificates: 5-10 working days.
• Commercial papers: 7-12 working days.

In Attest Astute, Apostille Services can be expedited in case of urgent need.

Issues that are likely to arise during Apostille Attestation

Most people will go and apostille themselves and encounter unnecessary complications, including:

• Filing inappropriate document forms.
• Lacking the verification processes.
• Selecting an inappropriate apostille authority.
• Lag time caused by incomplete paper work.

The cooperation with the professional Apostille Services provider reduces all these risks and saves time.

What is the reason to use Attest Astute to get Apostille?

The providers of Apostille Services are not equally competent and trustworthy. In Attest Astute, we pay attention to being precise, compliant, and client-satisfied.

What Makes Us Different

• Personal and commercial document apostille services.
• End-to-End Apostille Services.
• Qualified attestation specialists.
• Clearly defined schedules and costs.
• Secure document handling
• Several destination countries.

FAQs