Often, when public documents are used abroad, they require certification in order to be recognised internationally. This certification is called an apostille or certificate of authentication and it confirms the signature on the document, the capacity in which the person signed, and any seal or stamp which may be on the document. The apostille is an international standard that streamlines the process of authenticating a document for use in foreign countries and removes the need for further certification by a local notary or the embassy/ consulate of the country where the document is being used.

How to Apostille Any Type of Official U.S. Document

Apostilles for all documents are usually used for international business or immigration purposes. However, there are other documents which will need an apostille such as adoption paperwork, home study documents, and college transcripts. If you are unsure whether your document needs an apostille, please contact the country in which you wish to use it to find out what their requirements are.

The NDNY does not authenticate or apostille federal or FBI background checks, passports, or driver’s licenses. These need to be processed by the office or government entity that issued them. For more information about this process, visit the US Department of State website.

The NDNY only authenticates documents that are public and that were signed by a New York State official or county clerk. Private documents or those signed in a personal capacity cannot be authenticated by the NDNY and will require a local notary or the County Clerk to notarize them.