Notarization vs. Apostille: Understanding the Differences

When it comes to legal documents, it's important to understand the process of notarization and apostille and how they differ. Both notarization and apostille are used to authenticate the signature of the person signing the document, but they serve different purposes and have different applications.

Notarization is the process of having a document signed and stamped by a notary public. A notary public is an official appointed by the state to witness the signing of legal documents and certify that the person signing the document is who they claim to be. Notarization is commonly used for legal documents such as deeds, powers of attorney, and loan documents.

Apostille, on the other hand, is a certification process used for documents that will be used in foreign countries. An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the seal and signature of the official who signed the document. The apostille is issued by the Secretary of State's office and is recognized in countries that are part of the Hague Convention of 1961.

It's important to note that not all documents require an apostille. Only certain types of documents such as birth, death, marriage certificates and others that are intended to be used in a country that is a member of the Hague Convention.

A common example of when you may need an apostille is when a US citizen is getting married abroad, they will need to get an apostille on their marriage certificate so it can be accepted as a legal document in the foreign country.

In summary, notarization and apostille serve different purposes and are required for different types of documents. Notarization is for domestic use, while apostille is for international use. If you're unsure about which process you need for your document, it's always best to consult with a notary public or an attorney who can advise you on the best course of action.

Our notary services can assist you with notarization and apostille services to ensure that your legal documents are properly authenticated and recognized both domestically and internationally. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.