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Our Apostille Service Includes:

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✔ Document Notarization (if required)
✔ Review for Accuracy to ensure smooth processing
✔ Submission to the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth
✔ Secure Return of Your Apostilled Document

A Complete Guide to Apostilles

01

What is an Apostille?

An apostille is an official certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It simplifies international document verification, eliminating the need for embassy legalization.

03

What Types of Documents Require Apostilles?

Some of the most common documents include:
✔ Birth, death, and marriage certificates
✔ Divorce decrees
✔ Notarized affidavits and powers of attorney
✔ Educational diplomas and transcripts
✔ Corporate documents (articles of incorporation, business agreements)

02

When Do You Need an Apostille?

You may need an apostille if you are dealing with international business, legal, or personal matters. Common situations include:

  • Studying abroad – Diplomas, transcripts

  • International adoption – Birth certificates, medical records

  • Marriage overseas – Marriage certificates, single status affidavits

  • Business transactions – Corporate documents, contracts

  • Legal matters – Power of attorney, court orders

04

Apostille Process in Virginia

  • Notarization (if required) – Documents like affidavits and powers of attorney must be notarized before apostille certification.

  • Submission to the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth – The apostille is issued based on the notary’s authentication.

  • Processing & Return – The state processes the request, and the document is returned with the official apostille.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does an apostille cost in Virginia?

What types of documents need an apostille?

Can I get an apostille without notarizing my document?

Do I need to notarize my document before getting an apostille?

​How long does the process take?

Do I need to go to Richmond to get an apostille?

What if the country I need the document for isn’t part of the Hague Convention?

The state fee is $10 for the first document and $5 for additional documents signed by the same official on the same date.

Common documents include:
✔ Birth, marriage, and death certificates
✔ Powers of attorney
✔ Diplomas and transcripts
✔ Business contracts
✔ Adoption papers

It depends. Some documents, like birth certificates and marriage certificates, come from government agencies and don’t require notarization. Others, like powers of attorney and affidavits, must be notarized first.

Some documents must be notarized before apostille processing. We’ll guide you through the requirements!

  • Mail-in submissions: About 7 business days

  • Expedited options: Same-day (for in-person appointments) or 2-3 days by mail

No! We handle everything for you—from notarization to submitting your documents to the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.

If the country is not a Hague Apostille Convention member, you will likely need embassy legalization instead of an apostille. We can help guide you through the process

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