What Is an Apostille and How Do I Get One in Florida?

An apostille is a certificate that makes a document valid in another country. It's used by countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

People often need one for birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, and notarized documents being sent overseas.

In Florida, the Florida Department of State issues the apostille. The document has to be the right kind first. For example, a vital record usually needs to be a certified copy, and other documents may need to be notarized.

I help by checking your document, notarizing it if needed, and submitting it to the state for you. I don't issue the apostille myself.