California Apostille Services & Requirements Guide

An apostille is a certificate issued by the California Secretary of State that verifies the authenticity of a public official's signature on documents intended for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.

For documents being used in countries that are not members of the Hague Convention, an apostille is not sufficient. These documents typically require authentication and embassy or consular legalization. Federal documents, such as FBI Background Checks, are processed through the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., and may require additional authentication steps depending on the destination country.

Because requirements vary by document type and receiving country, it is important to verify the correct process before submitting your documents.

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This guide explains:

• Which documents can be apostilled in California
• Apostille requirements for birth certificates, marriage certificates, powers of attorney, diplomas, FBI background checks, and corporate records
• Hague Convention countries and non-Hague legalization requirements
• California apostille processing times and fees
• Federal authentication and embassy legalization

If you need assistance, I also provide California apostille facilitation services throughout San Mateo County and Santa Clara County.