California Secretary of State
For eligible California documents, the California Secretary of State authenticates California public officials’ signatures for use abroad. We can discuss document preparation and coordination for this process.
Documents for use abroad
Apostille & Document Authentication Assistance
Preparing documents for another country starts with the right process. ATI Language Line helps coordinate apostille, authentication and translation requests based on where your document was issued and where it will be used.
Start with three details
- The document type and issuing authority
- The country where the document will be used
- The receiving organization’s requirements and deadline
Finding the appropriate authority
One destination, different document requirements
An apostille authenticates the origin of a public document, such as its official signature or seal; it does not certify the truth of its contents. ATI assists with coordination. The relevant government authority issues the apostille or authentication certificate.
Other U.S. state documents
A document issued or notarized in another U.S. state generally follows that state’s competent authority process. Tell us the state of origin so the request can be directed appropriately.
U.S. Department of State
Federal documents follow a different route from state documents. The U.S. Department of State’s Office of Authentications handles eligible federal apostille and authentication requests.
Foreign-issued documents
A document issued outside the United States generally needs authentication through the competent authority in its country of origin. We can discuss translation needs and the information needed to identify the appropriate process.
Destination country requirements
The destination country determines whether an apostille or a different authentication and legalization process applies. Confirm the receiving organization’s instructions before preparing the request.
Translation and notarization
Ask the recipient which translations or certifications it requires. Translation, notarization and an apostille are separate steps; the right combination depends on the document and its intended use.
Getting started
Map the document’s path before you submit
Requirements depend on the document, its origin and the destination. A clear brief helps us discuss the assistance available for your request.
Identify the document
Share the document type, issuing country or U.S. state, and whether you have the original or a certified copy. Include the destination country.
Review the requirements
Provide the receiving organization’s instructions and any translation needs. We’ll discuss the relevant authority and which preparation or coordination services you need.
Confirm scope and timing
Agree on the assistance, costs and submission arrangements. Government processing and the receiving organization’s acceptance remain subject to their requirements.
Review current requirements directly with the California Secretary of State or the U.S. Department of State. Document requirements and processing information may change.
Before you book
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an apostille and authentication?
An apostille is used under the Hague Apostille Convention between participating countries where it applies. Documents for other destinations may need an authentication certificate and additional legalization steps. Confirm the route using both the document’s origin and destination.
Does ATI issue the apostille?
No. The competent government authority issues the certificate. ATI can assist with preparation, translation and coordination as agreed for your request.
Can California apostille a foreign document?
A California apostille authenticates an eligible California public official’s signature. It does not authenticate a foreign official’s signature on a foreign-issued document. An apostille for that original document generally comes from the competent authority in its country of origin.
Does an apostille guarantee that my document will be accepted?
No. An apostille authenticates the document’s origin, not its contents or suitability for a particular application. The receiving organization may have separate requirements for document age, certified copies, translations or application forms.
How long does the process take?
Timing depends on the issuing authority, document preparation, submission method and any translation or legalization steps. Share your deadline so we can discuss the current process and available assistance before you proceed.
Know the next step for your documents
Tell us where your document was issued, where it will be used and what the recipient requires. We’ll discuss the assistance that fits your request.
Discuss your documents