Frequently Asked Questions – Orange County Apostille
At Orange County Apostille, we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions from individuals, businesses, notaries, and those needing documents authenticated for international use. Below are 10 detailed answers with direct references and high-quality government links to help guide you.
For professional assistance, book your appointment with Orange County Apostille today.
🔹 Individual Document Questions
1. How do I apostille a birth certificate in California?
To apostille a California birth certificate, it must be an original certified copy issued by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) or the county recorder’s office. The certificate must be signed by an authorized official whose signature is on file with the California Secretary of State. Submit the document with a cover sheet to the Secretary of State’s office in Sacramento or Los Angeles. Hospital-issued records and photocopies are not accepted. We assist with document review and offer same-day apostille processing.
2. Can I apostille a marriage certificate issued in California?
Yes, California marriage certificates are eligible for apostille if they are certified copies issued by a county clerk or recorder. The official’s signature must be verifiable by the Secretary of State. You’ll need to submit an Apostille Request Cover Sheet, available on the Secretary of State’s website. Keepsake or decorative certificates are not acceptable. We can help newlyweds get their certificates apostilled for use overseas.
3. What documents are needed to apostille a death certificate?
To apostille a death certificate, obtain a certified copy from the CDPH or your local county health office. The record must bear an official signature that the Secretary of State can authenticate. Photocopies, scans, or funeral home records are not acceptable. Include the apostille request form when submitting the document. We provide local pickup and delivery assistance for family members managing affairs abroad.
4. Can I apostille divorce papers?
Yes, divorce decrees issued by a California court can be apostilled if they are certified copies from the court clerk’s office. These must have the court’s seal and signature. Photocopies or attorney-supplied documents won’t be accepted. Court-issued copies can be submitted to the Secretary of State. We can help locate certified court records if you don’t already have them.
5. How do I apostille my diploma or transcript?
Academic records must be notarized before apostille. Typically, your school issues a notarized letter confirming the diploma or transcript’s authenticity. Then, the notarized document can be apostilled through the California Secretary of State. These are commonly required for international employment or admissions. We offer notarization and apostille in a single step.
🔹 Business Document Questions
6. How do I apostille articles of incorporation in California?
Obtain a certified copy of your Articles of Incorporation from the California Secretary of State – Business Programs Division. It must include an authorized signature and seal. Once obtained, submit the certified copy for apostille to the Notary & Apostille Unit. Apostilled articles are often required for foreign registration. We streamline the process to ensure proper compliance.
7. Can I apostille a certificate of good standing?
Yes. A Certificate of Status (Good Standing) from the California Secretary of State is eligible for apostille. This document proves your business is legally compliant and active. It’s often required for international contracts and partnerships. We can obtain and apostille the document within 24 hours.
8. How do I apostille a commercial invoice or shipping document?
These documents must be notarized before apostille. A notary will complete a proper acknowledgment for the invoice or bill of lading. Once notarized, submit the original to the California Secretary of State. In some cases, a certificate of origin may be required. We help ensure your shipping documents meet international trade requirements.
9. What business documents require an apostille for international use?
Common business documents needing apostille include Articles of Incorporation, Good Standing Certificates, board resolutions, bylaws, contracts, and commercial invoices. The documents must be notarized or issued by a California agency. Apostille is required for use in Hague Convention countries. We specialize in preparing all business documentation.
10. Do corporate resolutions need to be notarized before apostille?
Yes. Corporate resolutions must be signed in front of a notary unless certified by a state agency. After notarization, the document can be submitted for apostille. We provide mobile notary services and ensure documents are prepared correctly for submission.
🔹 Embedded Government Links
- California Secretary of State – Apostille Services
- California Secretary of State – Business Entities
- California Certificate of Status Request
- FBI Background Check Requests
- CDC Vital Records – Birth, Death Certificates
- National Center for Health Statistics
- U.S. Department of Education
- U.S. Courts
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- American Bar Association – Notarization
