An apostille is an authentication or certification of a document, made by a government agency recognized by the Hague Convention of 1961. In simple terms, an apostille verifies the authenticity of a document for use in another country. New York is one of the several states that require apostilles for various legal documents. However, the process of getting an apostille New York can be confusing and time-consuming. In this blog post, we'll discuss everything you need to know about apostille in New York, including the cost, turnaround time, and how to obtain one.
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that verifies the authenticity of a document issued in one country for use in another country. This verification is necessary for legal documents such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, diplomas, transcripts, power of attorney, and more. The apostille certifies that the document was issued by a duly authorized officer and that the signature and seal on the document are genuine.
Secretary of State New York apostille
The New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services is the competent authority for issuing apostilles in New York. If you require an apostille, you must submit your document to this office for authentication. The document will be reviewed for authenticity, and if it meets the requirements, the apostille will be issued and affixed to the document.
How much does an apostille cost in New York?
The fee for an apostille in New York is $10 for each document. If you need expedited service, an additional fee of $15 per document will be charged. You can pay the fee online or by mail with a check or money order payable to the New York State Department of State.
How long does it take to get an apostille in New York?
The standard processing time for an apostille in New York is 5-7 business days from the date the office receives the document and fee. However, if you need expedited service, you can receive your apostille within 24-48 hours for an additional fee. The fee will depend on how quickly you need the document certified.
How do I get an apostille in New York?
To obtain an apostille in New York, you'll need to follow these steps:
- Check if your document requires an apostille.
- Obtain a certified copy of the document from the issuing authority.
- Complete and sign a New York State Apostille Request Form.
- Pay the appropriate fee either online or by mail.
- Mail the completed request form, document to be authenticated, and appropriate fee to the New York State Department of State, Division of Licensing Services.
Obtaining an apostille in New York can be a straightforward process as long as you follow the steps provided by the New York State Department of State. Although the standard processing time may take up to 7 business days, there is an option for expedited service for an additional fee. By understanding the requirements and fees for an apostille in New York, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.