Apostilles and Document Legalization: International Authentication
We facilitate apostille and document legalization services needed for immigration procedures and international use.
5.0★★★★★21 Google reviews125+
Hague Convention Countries
Member countries of the Hague Convention.
5-10
Days in Mexico
Processing through SRE.
5-15
Days in the US
Secretary of State per state.
7+
Document Types
Certificates, powers, academic and more.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certification that authenticates public documents for use in countries that are members of the Hague Convention. At APM, we facilitate the apostille and legalization process for documents needed for immigration matters, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, powers of attorney, and academic documents.
- ✓Without an apostille, foreign documents have no legal validity in the other country.
- ✓Each country only apostilles documents issued within its territory.
- ✓Most documents submitted to USCIS must be apostilled.
- ✓A certified translation is usually required alongside the apostille.
Documents We Apostille
- Birth certificates: For visa, residency, and citizenship applications
- Marriage certificates: For family petitions and adjustment of status
- Divorce decrees: To demonstrate eligibility for remarriage
- Powers of attorney: For legal representation in another country
- Academic documents: Diplomas, certificates, and transcripts
- Criminal records: No criminal record letters
- Corporate documents: Articles of incorporation and commercial powers
Apostille Process
- 1Submit documentsOriginal or certified copies as applicable
- 2VerificationConfirm that documents meet formal requirements
- 3ApostilleProcessing through the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs or US Secretary of State
- 4DeliveryReturn of apostilled documents
US vs Mexico Apostille
- USA: Apostilles are issued by the Secretary of State office in each state. Processing time is 5-15 business days.
- Mexico: Apostilles are issued by the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE). They are processed at SRE offices or online. Processing time varies by office, generally 5-10 business days.
- Key difference: Each country only apostilles documents issued within its territory. A Mexican birth certificate is apostilled in Mexico; a US document is apostilled in the US.
Most Common Documents
Ready to take the next step?
We facilitate apostille and legalization of all your documents for immigration procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a seal or certification that authenticates the signature and title of the official who issued a public document, so it is valid in any country that is a member of the Hague Convention.
How long does the apostille process take?
The timeline varies: in Mexico with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs it takes 5-10 business days. In the US with the Secretary of State, 5-15 business days. Expedited services may be available.
Do I need apostilles for my immigration application?
Yes, most foreign documents submitted to USCIS or consulates must be apostilled and, in some cases, translated by a certified translator.
Do I need a translation in addition to the apostille?
Yes, for use in another country a certified translation is usually required alongside the apostille. The translation must be done by a certified translator and in some cases must be notarized.