When you need to use a document overseas — whether for school, employment, legal matters, or immigration — that document may require an apostille. An apostille is a form of international authentication that confirms your document is valid and recognized in member countries of the Hague Apostille Convention.
At Steven Mobile Notary, we simplify the process by helping you get your documents apostilled quickly and correctly, especially when dealing with documents from New York or New Jersey
What Types of Documents Require an Apostille?
Most commonly, people request apostilles for the following documents:
Who Typically Requests Apostilles?
We work with:
- Individuals submitting immigration paperwork
- Students applying to foreign universities
- Families relocating or getting married abroad
- Attorneys and real estate professionals
- Dual citizenship applicants
- Businesses expanding internationally
Apostille Process in New York: How It Works
Here’s a breakdown of how the apostille process works, specifically for documents issued in New York State or New York City:
1. Identify the Document Type
Different rules apply depending on whether your document is a vital record, court document, school record, or notarized affidavit.
2. Verify Eligibility
We check to make sure your document is eligible for apostille. For example:
- Vital records (birth, marriage, death) from NYC often need an exemplification letter.
- Court documents must come certified from the County Clerk’s Office.
- School records must be notarized and accompanied by a registrar’s affidavit.
3. Authentication
Depending on the issuing agency, we may need to:
- Authenticate the notary or registrar’s signature at the County Clerk’s office
- Request a new certified copy
- Prepare translation services if the destination country requires it
4. Apostille Issuance
Once ready, we submit it to the New York Department of State in Albany or NYC for the final apostille certificate.
How Steven Mobile Notary Helps With the Apostille Process
We offer:
✅ Document review – Ensure your paperwork meets state apostille requirements
✅ Courier service – Pick up and deliver your documents securely
✅ Fast processing – Regular and expedited options available
✅ Certified translation – For over 130+ languages, if needed
✅ Real-time updates – So you always know where your paperwork stands
Whether you’re local to Brooklyn, in Queens, or out of state, we’ll walk you through every step.
Apostille for Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates
For NYC-issued records, you typically need:
- A long-form certificate issued within the past 5 years
- An exemplification letter (from NYC Vital Records or Health Department)
- We’ll confirm if both are required for your destination country
Some states or countries allow an apostille based on the registrar’s original signature, but not all. Let us verify the best method for your destination.
Apostille for Divorce Decrees and Court Records
Issued by:
- County Clerk’s Office (e.g. Kings County, Bronx County)
- Must be certified with a raised seal and signature
- No additional notarization is needed if the document is already certified by the court
Apostille for Academic Records (Diplomas, Transcripts)
- Must be notarized by the school registrar or an official
- Often requires a signed affidavit and school letterhead
- For NYC public schools or CUNY/SUNY campuses, we can assist with registrar coordination
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to get an apostille in New York?
A: Standard processing takes 7–10 business days. Expedited service may be available within 1–3 business days.
Q: Can I apostille a document that’s not from New York?
A: Yes — we can process apostilles for all 50 states. The process varies by state.
Q: Does the document need to be translated?
A: If your destination country does not use English as an official language, a certified translation may be required.
Q: Can Steven Mobile Notary handle everything for me?
A: Yes — from notarization and certified translation to courier delivery and apostille filing, we offer full-service support.
