If your destination country is part of the Hague Convention, you need an apostille. If it is not, you will need document authentication plus embassy or consulate legalization. If you’re not sure, send us the country name and a photo of your document and we’ll confirm the right path for you.

Most civil documents, such as birth, marriage, and divorce certificates, must be certified originals from the county or state. Some notarized documents can be apostilled from properly notarized copies. If you’re not sure, send us a photo and we’ll tell you whether your document is acceptable before you mail anything.

Yes. Many documents, such as powers of attorney, letters, and affidavits, are notarized first and then apostilled. The notary wording, seal, and location must meet Texas requirements. We review your notarized document before processing to avoid rejections.

Yes, as long as it is a certified copy from the correct government office (county clerk, state vital records, or similar). Hospital birth records and older “souvenir” style certificates are usually not acceptable. We can look at a photo and tell you if you have the right version.

Yes. Many educational documents can be apostilled, but some require notarization and possibly county clerk certification first. We guide you through each step so your diploma or transcript is accepted overseas the first time.

Processing time depends on the service level you choose (Standard, Expedited, or Rush) and whether consulate or embassy legalization is required. In general, Texas-only apostilles are much faster than multi-step legalization for non-Hague countries. See the “Choose Your Apostille Speed” section above for typical timelines.

Yes. Federal documents, such as FBI background checks, require a U.S. Department of State apostille instead of a state-level apostille. We coordinate the federal processing for you and return your documents by secure mail or courier.

Non-Hague countries (such as Iraq, Lebanon, UAE, Qatar, and others) do not use apostilles. Instead, you need document authentication plus embassy or consulate legalization. We handle the full chain for many Middle Eastern and international destinations.

You do not need to come in person. Most clients use our secure mail-in service. Local clients in the Houston area may also request pickup or drop-off by arrangement.

Yes. You can text or email clear photos of your documents and tell us the destination country. We will review them for free, confirm whether they are acceptable, and tell you exactly what the next step should be before you spend money on shipping.