To apostille a document in California, follow these steps:
- Determine the type of document needing an apostille (commonly birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or notarized documents).
- Ensure the document is an original or certified copy with the signature of a California public official or a notarized certificate.
- You can request an apostille either in person or by mail:
- In person: Visit the California Secretary of State office in Sacramento or Los Angeles with the document, a $20 payment, and a $6 handling fee per signature to be authenticated. Fill out an apostille request cover letter and submit your document. The process usually takes 10-20 minutes.
- By mail: Send the original or certified copy of the document, a completed apostille request cover sheet, a $20 payment by check or money order made payable to the Secretary of State, and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the Secretary of State’s Sacramento office.
- Wait for the apostilled document to be returned if using mail service.
Key things to avoid:
- Sending unofficial copies (only originals or certified copies are accepted).
- Incorrect payment amounts or payee.
The apostille authenticates the signature of the public official on your document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.
