Common Mistakes in Handling Originals for Apostille

Documents require careful handling for apostille, as the process authenticates them for use in foreign countries. If a document is handled incorrectly or submitted with the wrong documents, it may cause a delay or even rejection in processing. In this article, we discuss some common mistakes in handling originals for apostille and how to avoid them.

Not preparing the documents correctly: Whether it’s a legal affidavit or educational transcript, all documents must be properly prepared and completed. This includes having the necessary originals ready for submission, ensuring all of the correct information is included, and meeting any other document-specific requirements (i.e., signatures, stamps, or seals). Not following payment instructions: Whether it’s paying the wrong fee, submitting the documents before you’ve paid, or not following other required instructions, fees can easily become an issue in the authentication process. It’s important to always be aware of current fee schedules and follow any required instructions exactly.

Safely Handling Your Originals When Seeking an Apostille

Submitting the document to the wrong authority: Apostilles must be obtained from the appropriate office for each type of document. For state-issued documents, this means the Secretary of State’s office from the state where the document was issued. For federal documents, this means the U.S. Department of State division responsible for issuing apostilles for FBI background checks and FDA certificates.

Waiting too long to submit: Depending on the volume of requests, it can take weeks or even months for the apostille office to complete your request. Make sure to plan ahead and account for processing times so you can meet your international deadlines.