Pennsylvania Apostille FAQ
Answers to common questions about the apostille process in Pennsylvania.
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document for international use under the Hague Apostille Convention. It verifies the signature, seal, or stamp on the document so it is recognized by foreign governments.
How do I get an apostille in Pennsylvania?
To get an apostille in Pennsylvania, submit your document to the Secretary of the Commonwealth in Harrisburg. The document must bear an original signature from a recognized Pennsylvania official or notary public. You can submit in person or by mail.
What documents can be apostilled in Pennsylvania?
Common documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, divorce decrees, FBI background checks, corporate documents (articles of incorporation, certificates of good standing), powers of attorney, diplomas, and transcripts.
How long does the Pennsylvania apostille process take?
In-person requests at the Secretary of the Commonwealth in Harrisburg can often be completed the same day. Mail-in requests typically take 5-10 business days, not including mailing time.
How much does an apostille cost in Pennsylvania?
The Secretary of the Commonwealth charges $15 per apostille. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing, shipping, or if you use a professional apostille service.
Can I get an apostille for a federal document in Pennsylvania?
No. Federal documents such as FBI background checks, patents, and federal court orders must be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., not by the Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth.
What is the difference between an apostille and authentication?
An apostille is used for countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. Authentication (or legalization) is required for non-Hague countries and involves a multi-step process through the Secretary of State and the destination country embassy or consulate.
Do I need to notarize my document before getting an apostille?
It depends on the document. Certified copies from government agencies generally do not need separate notarization. However, private documents such as powers of attorney or affidavits must be notarized by a Pennsylvania notary public before an apostille can be issued.
Can I apostille a photocopy of my document?
You cannot apostille a plain photocopy. However, you can have a notary public create a notarized copy of the original document, and then that notarized copy can receive an apostille from the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Which countries accept a Pennsylvania apostille?
Any country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention will accept a Pennsylvania apostille. This includes over 120 countries such as Mexico, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and many more.