Can I Apostille a Certificate of Good Standing?

Can I Apostille a Certificate of Good Standing?

If you’re running a business and expanding internationally, or simply need to verify your company’s legal existence abroad, you might be wondering: Can I apostille a Certificate of Good Standing? The answer is a resounding yes—and at Orange County Apostille, we specialize in making the process fast, easy, and accurate.

Book your appointment with Orange County Apostille today and get your documents ready for global use.

What Is a Certificate of Good Standing?

A Certificate of Good Standing (also known as a Certificate of Existence or Certificate of Status) is a document issued by a state government agency—most commonly the Secretary of State—verifying that a business entity is legally registered, authorized to do business, and in compliance with state requirements.

This certificate may be required for:

• Opening a bank account overseas
• Registering your business in another country
• Entering into international contracts
• Demonstrating legitimacy to foreign partners

Can You Apostille a Certificate of Good Standing?

Yes. A Certificate of Good Standing can be apostilled provided it’s an official certified document issued by a recognized authority, such as the California Secretary of State.

The apostille certifies the authenticity of the signature, seal, and capacity of the official who issued the Certificate of Good Standing. This is essential for international recognition in Hague Apostille Convention countries.

How to Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing

If your business is registered in California, you can request the certificate through the California Secretary of State’s Business Programs Division.

For other states, visit the respective Secretary of State website or consult the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) directory.

Once you receive your certified copy, you’re ready to begin the apostille process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apostilling a Certificate of Good Standing

Step 1: Verify the Document Type

• Make sure the Certificate of Good Standing is certified and recently issued.
• Most authorities abroad require the document to be issued within the last 3-6 months.

Step 2: Determine Apostille Authority

• If your Certificate of Good Standing is state-issued, it must be apostilled by the Secretary of State where the business is registered.
• Federal Certificates (if applicable) are apostilled by the U.S. Department of State.

Step 3: Submit for Apostille Certification

• In California, submit your document to the California Secretary of State’s Apostille Unit.
• Processing usually takes 5–10 business days, but expedited services are available through providers like Orange County Apostille.

Step 4: Translation (If Required)

Some countries may require a certified translation of the document.

• Use professionals from the American Translators Association.

Step 5: Secure Delivery

We recommend using traceable international courier services such as FedEx or UPS for secure delivery.

Countries That Accept Apostilles

More than 120 countries recognize apostilles under the Hague Apostille Convention, including:

• France (Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs)
• Germany (Federal Foreign Office)
• Mexico (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores)
• Italy (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
• Spain (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

For a full list, visit: Hague Apostille Members

Why Apostille a Certificate of Good Standing?

An apostilled Certificate of Good Standing:

• Proves your company’s legal existence
• Enables international expansion
• Demonstrates compliance to foreign partners
• Speeds up international business registrations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using outdated documents: Always use the most recently issued certificate.
2. Not checking country requirements: Some foreign authorities require apostilles within a specific timeframe.
3. Skipping notarization (when required): Always follow proper notarization if the document isn’t pre-certified.

Why Choose Orange County Apostille?

• We handle state and federal documents.
• Certified translation services included.
• Expedited options available.
• Secure pickup, drop-off, and shipping.

Book your appointment now to get started.

Embedded Government Links for Reference

1. California Secretary of State – Apostille
2. California Secretary of State – Business Entities
3. U.S. Department of State – Apostilles
4. FBI Background Checks
5. IRS Official Site
6. U.S. Courts
7. CDC Vital Records
8. American Translators Association
9. National Notary Association
10. National Association of Secretaries of State

20 Embedded Links for Easy Access

1. California Secretary of State – Apostille Unit
2. U.S. Department of State – Apostille Information
3. FBI Background Checks
4. IRS.gov
5. CDC Vital Records
6. U.S. Courts
7. U.S. Chamber of Commerce
8. U.S. Small Business Administration
9. American Translators Association
10. National Notary Association
11. Hague Apostille Members
12. France – Foreign Affairs
13. Germany – Foreign Office
14. Spain – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
15. Italy – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
16. Mexico – Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores
17. FedEx Shipping
18. UPS Shipping
19. National Association of Secretaries of State
20. Book Appointment – Orange County Apostille

Conclusion

If you’re expanding your business internationally or managing cross-border compliance, an apostilled Certificate of Good Standing is a critical tool. At Orange County Apostille, we guide you through the process to ensure your documents are ready for legal use abroad.

Book your appointment today and ensure your business remains in good standing—everywhere!

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