When you need to get an apostille for your documents, it can be difficult to know where to start. An apostille is a special certification that verifies that a document has been legalized for use in another country. In Florida, there are several places where you can get an apostille, depending on your needs and preferences. In this article, we will explore the different options available to help you get started.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a special certificate that is attached to a document to verify its authenticity for use in another country. The Hague Convention of 1961 established the apostille system to simplify the legalization process for documents that need to be used abroad. The apostille is recognized in over 110 countries, including the United States.
When you need to use a document in another country, you may be required to get an apostille to ensure that it is accepted as valid. Some common documents that require an apostille include birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, transcripts, and power of attorney documents.
Where to Get an Apostille in Florida
There are several ways to get an apostille in Florida. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose the option that works best for you. Here are some of the most common ways to get an apostille in Florida:
1. The Florida Department of State
The Florida Department of State is the most common place to get an apostille in Florida. You can request an apostille in person or by mail. To request an apostille in person, you can visit the Department of State in Tallahassee or at one of their regional offices. If you prefer to request an apostille by mail, you can download the apostille request form from the Florida Department of State’s website and mail it in with your documents.
When requesting an apostille from the Florida Department of State, you will need to provide the original document that needs to be apostilled, a written request, and the appropriate fee. The fee for an apostille is $10 per document.
2. Private Apostille Services
There are many private companies that offer apostille services in Florida. These companies can provide faster turnaround times and may be more convenient for people who are unable to travel to the Department of State. Private apostille services can be found online or by contacting a local notary public.
When using a private apostille service, you will need to provide the original document, a written request, and the appropriate fee. The fee for an apostille through a private service can vary depending on the company and the type of document.
3. Local Notary Public
Sometimes, a local notary public may be able to provide an apostille for your documents. This option is less common, but it may be useful if you are unable to travel to the Department of State or find a private apostille service.
When using a notary public for an apostille, you will need to provide the original document, a written request, and the appropriate fee. The fee for an apostille through a notary public can vary depending on the notary.
Conclusion
Getting an apostille in Florida is a straightforward process that can be done in person or by mail. The Florida Department of State is the most common place to get an apostille, but there are also private companies and notary publics that can provide this service. When obtaining an apostille, be sure to provide the original document, a written request, and the appropriate fee. With these simple steps, you can ensure that your documents are recognized as valid in other countries.
