If You’re Sending Your Documents to Mexico, Make Sure You Read This – You May Need an Apostille Seal!
Whether you’re applying for Mexican citizenship, getting married abroad, working internationally, or handling business matters in Mexico, there’s one crucial step you can’t skip: obtaining an apostille seal. This little-known certification can make or break the acceptance of your U.S. documents in Mexico.
We’re here to help make it easy. Book your appointment online anytime at Orange County Apostille and let us take care of the rest!
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document. It confirms that a U.S.-issued document (like a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or power of attorney) is genuine and can be accepted in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Fortunately, both the United States and Mexico are member countries. This means any document sent from the U.S. to Mexico must include an apostille seal to be considered valid.
When Do You Need an Apostille for Mexico?
Here are some common reasons why individuals and businesses need apostille-certified documents for use in Mexico:
- Dual citizenship applications (especially for those of Mexican descent)
- Marriage or divorce in Mexico
- Birth certificate validation for immigration
- Adoption processes
- Starting or expanding a business in Mexico
- Property purchases
- Power of attorney submissions
- School and university enrollment
Common Documents That Require an Apostille for Mexico
1. Birth Certificates
Needed for dual citizenship, marriage, and visa applications. Get yours from the CDC Vital Records Office.
2. Marriage Certificates
Required if you’re validating a marital relationship in Mexico. Obtain certified copies from the California Department of Public Health or your local county clerk.
3. FBI Background Checks
Often required for visa and work permit applications. Request yours through the FBI’s Identity History Summary.
4. Educational Transcripts & Diplomas
Needed for school enrollment, employment, or immigration purposes. Contact your institution and ensure the document is notarized before apostille submission.
5. Naturalization or Citizenship Documents
Vital for those applying for dual citizenship. Retrieve records from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
6. Power of Attorney (POA)
Common for managing property, finances, or legal matters from abroad. Must be notarized and apostilled.
How to Get an Apostille for Mexico in California
Step 1: Get a Certified Copy of Your Document
Make sure your documents are original or certified copies. For state-issued documents, you’ll need to request them from the issuing agency (like the California Secretary of State).
Step 2: Notarize the Document (If Required)
Some documents (like power of attorney or affidavits) must be notarized before an apostille can be issued. Use a licensed notary from the National Notary Association.
Step 3: Submit to the Apostille Authority
- California documents go to the California Secretary of State Apostille Unit.
- Federal documents (like FBI background checks) are apostilled by the U.S. Department of State.
Step 4: Translate the Document (If Needed)
Most Mexican authorities require your documents in Spanish. Work with a certified translator accredited by the American Translators Association (ATA).
Step 5: Submit to Mexican Authorities
Once your document has been apostilled and translated, you can submit it to:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting photocopies instead of certified originals
- Not checking expiration rules (some documents must be recently issued)
- Failing to notarize documents that require it
- Applying for an apostille through the wrong state
- Not translating documents when required by Mexican authorities
Why Choose Orange County Apostille?
- We handle the entire apostille process from start to finish
- We work with both state and federal agencies
- We offer 24-hour expedited services for urgent needs
- We use secure delivery options like FedEx and UPS
How Long Does It Take?
- Standard processing: 5–10 business days
- Expedited processing: 24–48 hours available via Orange County Apostille
- Federal documents: About two weeks once they arrive at our Washington, D.C. office
Ready to Get Started?
Your documents deserve to be treated with professionalism, precision, and care. Whether you’re moving, marrying, or doing business in Mexico, we’ll ensure your documents are apostilled properly and on time.
👉 Book your appointment online anytime at Orange County Apostille and let us take care of the rest!
