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prepare for your appointment
An Apostille authenticates Illinois public officials’ signatures (like Notaries or County Clerks) so your documents are recognized in foreign countries. Please ensure your documents meet these requirements before your appointment.
1. Determine Your Document Type
The preparation depends on whether your document is a “Public Record” or a “Private Document.”
- Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage): Must be a certified copy issued by the County Clerk or the Illinois Department of Public Health. These cannot be notarized; they must have the official raised seal of the issuing registrar.
- Divorce Decrees: Must be a certified copy issued by the Circuit Clerk of the Court where the divorce was granted.
- Academic Records (Diplomas, Transcripts): Must be official copies issued by the school registrar, signed by a school official, and notarized by an Illinois Notary Public.
- Business/Legal (Contracts, Power of Attorney): Must be signed and notarized by a commissioned Illinois Notary Public.
2. Mandatory Document Checks
- Originals Only: The Secretary of State will not apostille a standard photocopy. You must provide the original certified or notarized document.
- Illinois Documents Only: We can only facilitate apostilles for documents issued or notarized within the State of Illinois.
- Destination Country: You must know the name of the country where the document will be used. (Requirements differ if the country is not a member of the Hague Convention).
3. Translation Requirements
If your document is written in a foreign language, it must be accompanied by a certified English translation. The translator’s signature must be notarized before the apostille process can begin.
4. Fees & Processing
- Service Fees: Our agency fee for facilitating the filing, courier service, and return shipping is $140 and includes fees to Secretary of State
- Timeline: * In-Person/Expedited: Often processed same-day or within 24–48 hours.
- Standard Mail: Typically takes 7–14 business days.
