Apostille Services
Get your documents authenticated for international use — we guide you through every step of the apostille process.
Start Your Apostille RequestWhat Is an Apostille?
An apostille is an official certification that authenticates the origin of a public document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Convention. It confirms that the document is genuine and that the signature, seal, or stamp on it is legitimate.
If you need to use a U.S. document in another country — for immigration, employment, education, marriage, or business — an apostille is typically required. Accurate Signing and Notary LLC helps you prepare your documents correctly so the process goes smoothly.
Documents That Commonly Need an Apostille
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Diplomas and academic transcripts
- FBI background checks and criminal records
- Powers of attorney for use abroad
- Corporate and business documents
- Court documents and legal judgments
The Apostille Process, Step by Step
Identify the Right Office
Maryland records and documents notarized in Maryland go to the Maryland Secretary of State. Federal documents, like FBI background checks, go to the U.S. Department of State. Records from other states go to the state that issued them.
Prepare the Document
Maryland records need a certified copy from the issuing office. Powers of attorney, affidavits and similar documents are notarized by us. Federal documents must be the signed original and should not be notarized.
County Certification (Maryland Notarized Documents)
For documents notarized in Maryland, the Clerk of the Circuit Court certifies the notary's signature. The Maryland Secretary of State requires this before issuing the apostille.
Submission, Tracking and Return
We submit your document to the Maryland Secretary of State ($5 per document) or the U.S. Department of State ($20 per document), track it, check the apostille, and return it for pickup or by tracked shipping.
How Long Does It Take?
Maryland apostilles usually take 3–4 business days when returned by FedEx or UPS, or 7–14 business days by regular mail, plus a few days for county certification when needed. Federal apostilles take about 7 business days through the Washington, D.C. drop-off, or up to 5 weeks by mail. We'll give you a realistic estimate up front, so start early if you have a deadline.
Ready to Start Your Apostille?
Tell us about your document and where it's going. You'll see which office issues the apostille, what to bring and the fees, and get an order number in a few minutes.
Start Your Apostille RequestNeed an Apostille?
Don't navigate the apostille process alone. We help you prepare your documents correctly from the start, avoiding costly delays. Contact us today to get started.
Get Apostille Help