United States
North America
The US joined the Hague Convention in 1981. US federal documents are apostilled by the US Department of State. State documents are apostilled by each state's Secretary of State office.
Why people process documents for United States
Americans relocating abroad need apostilled FBI background checks, birth certificates, and educational credentials for visa and work permit applications.
Many countries require an apostilled Certificate of No Impediment or single status affidavit before allowing foreign nationals to marry.
Corporate documents such as Articles of Incorporation and Good Standing certificates must be apostilled for international business operations.
Most commonly processed documents
These are the document types most often processed for use in United States — documents issued abroad that need an apostille or legalization. Documents issued in United States are apostilled in United States itself, by the authorities described above. Each guide link goes to a full guide; document types without a guide yet are listed for reference.
Requirements at a glance
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending a state document to the US Dept. of State instead of the correct Secretary of State.
- Using a notarized copy when the destination country requires the original certified document.
- Not checking if the receiving country requires a certified translation of the apostilled document.
Relevant services
Frequently asked questions
Who apostilles US federal documents like FBI background checks?
The US Department of State in Washington, DC apostilles federal documents including FBI Identity History Summary checks, federal court records, and documents from federal agencies.
Which Secretary of State do I use for my document?
You use the Secretary of State of the state where the document was issued. A California birth certificate goes to the California Secretary of State; a New York court order to the New York Secretary of State.
Can I get an apostille for a US document while living abroad?
Yes — we handle the entire process remotely. You scan and send the document; we manage the submission and return delivery to your address worldwide.
Reviewed by
Laura ChenLegal Document Expert
Specialist in documents for the English-speaking market with a focus on fast and secure processing.
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