What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate attached to an official document that confirms that the signature, seal or stamp on it is genuine, so that it can be accepted in another country. It comes from the 1961 Hague Convention, which simplified document legalization among its member countries. Instead of a chain of authentications by different offices and embassies, one apostille issued by the designated authority is enough.
When students need one
Universities, immigration authorities and employers abroad sometimes ask for apostilled documents, such as:
- Birth certificates and marriage certificates.
- Degree certificates and transcripts.
- Police clearance certificates.
- Court documents, adoption papers or powers of attorney.
- Notarized copies of documents.
Requirements vary by country and by purpose, so ask the institution or embassy which documents need an apostille and what format they accept.
How to get one
- Obtain the original document or a certified copy from the issuing office.
- Find the competent authority for apostilles in the country or state that issued it. This is often a foreign affairs ministry, a secretary of state office or a court.
- Submit the document with the application form and fee, in person, by mail or online.
- Receive the apostille, which is a stamp or certificate attached to the document.
- Translate if required, and check whether the translation also needs certification.
Processing times vary, so allow weeks.
Countries outside the convention
If the country that will receive the document is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, you may need a longer process called legalization, involving the foreign ministry and the receiving country's embassy.
Apostille versus other steps
An apostille does not verify that the document's contents are true. It confirms the authenticity of the official who signed it. It is different from notarization, which confirms a signature in front of a notary, though a notarized document may then be apostilled. It is also different from credential evaluation, which assesses how a qualification compares with another country's system.
Tips
- Check early, since delays could affect admission or visa deadlines.
- Get multiple copies if several institutions need them.
- Keep digital copies.
- Avoid unofficial agencies that charge high fees for simple services.
Related terms
See credential evaluation, letter of acceptance, transcript, diploma supplement and Bologna Process.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an apostille for my degree certificate?
Sometimes. Some countries or institutions ask for apostilled copies of certificates, transcripts or birth certificates. Check requirements in advance.
Who issues an apostille?
A designated authority in the country that issued the document, such as a foreign ministry or state office. Each country names its own.
Is an apostille a translation?
No. It verifies the signature and seal on the document. You may also need a certified translation.