How do I obtain an apostille in Pennsylvania? +
Pennsylvania apostilles and certifications are issued by the Pennsylvania Department of State. The required preparation depends on who issued or notarized the document and the country where it will be used.
What types of documents can receive an apostille in Pennsylvania? +
Common examples include eligible vital records, business records, adoption documents, diplomas, transcripts, powers of attorney, affidavits, and other Pennsylvania documents intended for use outside the United States.
Do documents need to be notarized before receiving a Pennsylvania apostille? +
Some documents must be notarized before authentication, while others must be original or certified records signed and sealed by the proper Pennsylvania official. The correct path depends on the document type.
Can Pennsylvania birth and marriage records receive an apostille? +
Yes, eligible Pennsylvania vital records may be authenticated. Birth certificates should be proper certified records, while marriage certificates must meet Pennsylvania Department of State signature requirements.
Which authority issues apostilles in Pennsylvania? +
The Secretary of the Commonwealth, through the Pennsylvania Department of State Office of Notaries, Commissions and Legislation, authenticates eligible Pennsylvania public documents.
How much does the Pennsylvania Department of State charge for an apostille or certification? +
The Pennsylvania Department of State currently lists a government fee of $15 per certificate issued. Service, courier, shipping, notarization, and other preparation fees are separate.
How long does Pennsylvania apostille processing take? +
Processing time depends on the submission method and current state workload. The Pennsylvania Department of State lists walk-in processing and also accepts mailed requests, for which processing may take longer.
Can Pennsylvania documents be apostilled for use in another country? +
Yes. Eligible Pennsylvania documents can receive an apostille for use in countries participating in the Hague Apostille Convention. Other destinations may require a certification and additional legalization.
Can apostille requests be handled if the document owner is outside Pennsylvania or outside the United States? +
Yes. Many requests can be coordinated remotely when the original documents, required information, payment, and return-shipping arrangements can be provided.
Do Pennsylvania county documents have special requirements? +
Yes. Pennsylvania states that county documents must be signed by the clerk in charge of the county office; documents signed only by an assistant or deputy clerk are not accepted for state authentication.
Can business and corporate documents be apostilled in Pennsylvania? +
Yes. Eligible Pennsylvania business documents, including certain corporate filings and records, can be authenticated when they meet the applicable signature, seal, and document requirements.
How do I start the apostille process in Scranton PA 18503? +
Send a copy or details of the document and identify the country where it will be used. We can review the document path and explain the preparation, authentication, and return options.
