If you're planning to use your documents outside of the United States, chances are you'll need an apostille. An apostille is an official certification that verifies the authenticity of a document, making it valid in other countries. But how do you get an apostille in California? In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of getting an apostille in California, including what documents you need, where to go, and how long it takes.
What documents can be apostilled in California?
California apostilles can be applied to a range of documents, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce certificates, diplomas, transcripts, power of attorney documents, and more. Keep in mind that not all documents can be apostilled. For instance, California does not apostille federal documents, such as FBI background checks or Social Security cards. Additionally, the document must be an original or a certified copy issued by the appropriate authority.
How to get an apostille in California?
The first step to getting an apostille in California is to ensure that you have the correct documentation. Additionally, you must have a signed and notarized affidavit or a signed cover letter stating the intended use of the document. Then, you can submit your documents in person or by mail to the California Secretary of State's office. The fee for a standard apostille is $20 per document, and the processing time is typically 5-7 business days.
Apostille in-person: If you prefer to deliver the documents in person, you can personally submit them to the Secretary of State's office in Sacramento or by visiting a regional office in Los Angeles or San Francisco. Be prepared to pay the necessary fees in cash, check, money order, or credit card. Additionally, you'll need a valid government-issued ID to complete the process.
Apostille by mail: If you prefer to submit your documents by mail, you'll need to send in the original document, the signed cover letter, a prepaid return envelope, and payment by check, money order, or credit card. The processing time for a mail-in apostille is 3-4 weeks. Be sure to double-check the required information before submitting.
In conclusion, getting a California Secretary of State Apostille is a simple process. Start by gathering your documents, signing a cover letter or affidavit, and submitting them to the California Secretary of State's office. The process can be done in person or by mail, and the fees are quite reasonable. Keep in mind that the processing time may vary depending on the method, so be sure to plan ahead. By following this guide, you can be sure that your documents will be apostilled and ready for use abroad in no time.
Comments