Step 1 — Start an order and upload your document(s)

Use Order / Upload to send your files securely. Include every page (front/back) and any attachments. Incomplete uploads are one of the most common reasons international filings get delayed.

Step 2 — Tell us where the document will be used (destination country)

The destination determines the certificate type: Apostille for Hague countries and Authentication for Non-Hague countries. If your destination is Non-Hague, additional embassy/consulate legalization may be required. See Country Requirements.

Step 3 — We confirm whether your document is state-level or federal-level

This is critical because different authorities issue different apostilles/authentications: state-issued documents typically route through the issuing state, while federal documents route through federal processing. For example, FBI background checks are commonly federal-level. See Federal Apostille.

Step 4 — Document review for acceptance (quality + consistency)

We review for issues that frequently cause rejections: missing pages, unclear scans, inconsistent names, incorrect notarization wording, or improper certification. If corrections are needed, we notify you early so you don’t lose processing time.

Step 5 — Optional: notarization (if required before apostille/authentication)

Some documents (affidavits, sworn statements, authorization letters) require notarization before they can be apostilled/authenticated. If your document needs notarization or re-notarization, we guide you on the correct format for the receiving authority.

Step 6 — Optional: certified translation (if required by the destination)

Many countries require documents to be submitted in their official language. If needed, we provide Certified Translation (and sworn translation formats when required), including a signed certification statement and professional formatting that mirrors the original document.

Step 7 — Apostille or authentication processing

We route your documents to the correct authority for issuance of the appropriate certificate (apostille for Hague, authentication for Non-Hague). If you are processing federal documents, see Federal Authentication when applicable.

Step 8 — Optional: embassy/consulate legalization (Non-Hague destinations)

For certain Non-Hague countries, authentication is followed by embassy/consulate legalization. We coordinate that workflow when required. See Embassy / Consulate Legalization.

Step 9 — Quality control + scans

Before return shipping, we confirm the certificate is attached/issued correctly and that your package matches your order instructions. When included, we provide high-quality scans to help with digital submissions and recordkeeping.

Step 10 — Delivery + tracking

We return your completed documents with tracking. You can check your status at any time using your Order ID on Track My Order.