Notary & Apostille Services

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

General Questions

What is an Apostille?

An apostille is a form of authentication issued for documents that need to be recognized in foreign countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It certifies the authenticity of the document so it can be used internationally.

What types of documents require an Apostille?

Common documents that need an apostille include:

  • Birth, marriage, & death certificates

  • Divorce decrees

  • Power of attorney documents

  • Business & corporate documents

  • School transcripts & diplomas

  • Background checks (FBI, DOJ)

What countries commonly require Apostilles?

Many countries require apostilles for official documents. Some of the most common include:

Mexico

Spain

Colombia

Argentina

Brazil

Peru

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

Chile

Italy

France

Germany

These countries, among many others, require apostilles for documents related to immigration, marriage, dual citizenship, education, and business transactions. If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an apostille will be required instead of traditional embassy legalization.

If you need an apostille for a different country, feel free to contact me!

Apostille Services

When do I need an apostille?

You will need an apostille if you are sending official documents (such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, powers of attorney, or business records) to be recognized in another country.

How long does the apostille process take in Missouri?

Processing times depend on the document type and the state of issuance. In Missouri:

  • Standard processing: 7-10 business days by mail

  • Expedited service: 5-7 business days

  • Express service: Same-day submission available if received before cutoff time.

Can I apostille any document?

Only documents issued or notarized in Missouri can be apostilled in Missouri. If your document comes from another state, it must be apostilled by that state’s Secretary of State. I can guide you through the process, even if your document was issued outside of Missouri.

Do I need to have my document notarized before it can get an apostille?

It depends on the type of document. Some state-issued documents (like certified birth or marriage certificates) do not require notarization. Others, such as powers of attorney, affidavits, or business contracts, must be notarized before they can be apostilled. I’ll guide you through exactly what your document needs.

Can you handle the apostille process for me?

Yes! I provide full-service apostille processing, including document notarization (if needed), submission, and retrieval.

Do you handle translations?

Yes! if your documents require certified translations for the apostille process, I can connect with translation services and include them as part of your project quote.

Notary Services

What is a notary public?

A notary public is a state-commissioned official who verifies the identity of signers and witnesses the signing of important documents to help prevent fraud. I am not an attorney/ lawyer, I cannot give legal advice.

Do you offer mobile services?

Only documents issued or notarized in Missouri can be apostilled in Missouri. If your document comes from another state, it must be apostilled by that state’s Secretary of State. I can guide you through the process, even if your document was issued outside of Missouri.

Do I need to have my document notarized before it can get an apostille?

It depends on the type of document. Some state-issued documents (like certified birth or marriage certificates) do not require notarization. Others, such as powers of attorney, affidavits, or business contracts, must be notarized before they can be apostilled. I’ll guide you through exactly what your document needs.

My document is not in English, can you still notarize it?

No, as I am only fluent in the English language, I can not notarize a document that is written in another language. I do know other notaries that do speak different languages and will gladly try and connect you together.

I am not an attorney licensed to practice law and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.

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