Getting Your Apostille Made Simple: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Your Apostille Made Simple: A Step-by-Step Guide

We know—it can be confusing trying to understand how to get an apostille. Between figuring out what documents you need, who to contact, where to send them, and how long everything takes, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created this simple, step-by-step guide to help you get your documents apostilled quickly, securely, and efficiently—through Orange County Apostille.

If you’re ready to begin, book your appointment with Orange County Apostille today.

What Is an Apostille?

An apostille is a type of certification that makes a U.S. document legally valid for use in any country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. This international treaty simplifies the process of document authentication across borders.

Documents Commonly Apostilled

Birth, death, marriage certificates (CDC Vital Records)
Educational transcripts and diplomas (U.S. Department of Education)
FBI background checks (FBI Identity History Summary)
Social Security letters (Social Security Administration)
IRS tax records (Internal Revenue Service)
Legal documents such as Power of Attorney (American Bar Association)
Business formation or incorporation certificates (California Secretary of State)

Why Choose Orange County Apostille?

We specialize in taking the confusion out of the process. Here’s what you can expect:

Fast and reliable turnaround
Local and federal document authentication
Secure handling of your personal paperwork
Same-day and 24-hour processing available

How the Apostille Process Works (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Identify What Document You Need Apostilled

First, determine the exact document you need authenticated. Some examples:

Birth certificate for dual citizenship
Diploma for working abroad
FBI background check for a visa

Check your destination country’s requirements using the Hague Members List.

Step 2: Make Sure It’s the Right Type of Document

Your document must be an original or a certified copy issued by the proper authority. For example:

Vital records must be issued by the California Department of Public Health or county recorder
Educational records must be signed by a school official and notarized

Step 3: Notarization (If Needed)

Some documents, like letters of authorization or business agreements, must be notarized by a California notary public before they can be apostilled.

Learn about proper notarization practices at the National Notary Association.

Step 4: Submit Your Document to Orange County Apostille

Once you have your documents ready, you can:

Drop them off in person
Mail them to us
Arrange for a courier pickup

We’ll take care of submission to the California Secretary of State for state-issued documents or send them to our D.C. office for federal apostilles through the U.S. Department of State.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

State documents typically take 1–5 business days
Federal documents, such as FBI reports, take about 2 weeks once submitted to D.C.

We offer expedited services for both state and federal requests.

Step 6: Receive Your Apostilled Document

Once your document is authenticated, we will:

Notify you via phone/email
Send it back via FedEx, UPS, or USPS
Offer international shipping options through DHL if needed

Pro Tips for Faster Apostille Processing

Avoid peak times like the holidays
Double-check all signatures and dates on your documents
Include a self-addressed, prepaid envelope if mailing on your own

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Much Does an Apostille Cost?

California charges $20 per document. Additional fees may apply for expedited services or overnight shipping.

Can You Apostille a Document from Another State?

Yes, but you must go through the Secretary of State for that state. We can help with nationwide apostille requests—ask us how!

What If My Destination Country Isn’t in the Hague Convention?

Then your documents require embassy legalization. We also provide that service. Contact us to learn more.

10 Useful Government Resources on Apostilles

Conclusion

Getting your apostille doesn’t have to be confusing. At Orange County Apostille, we walk you through every step of the process—from document preparation to final delivery. Let us handle the bureaucracy so you can focus on your plans abroad.

Book your appointment today and get started with confidence!

Hague Apostille Convention – HCCH

U.S. Department of State Apostille Services

California Secretary of State Apostille Unit

FBI Identity History Summary Checks

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

CDC Vital Records

Social Security Administration

U.S. Courts – Federal Records

IRS – Request Your Transcript

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)