Not always.

Whether a document must be notarized before it can receive an apostille depends on the type of document and the authority that issued it.

Some documents, such as certain affidavits, powers of attorney, authorization letters, and other privately executed documents, may need to be properly notarized before they can be submitted for an apostille.

Other documents are issued or certified by a government authority and generally follow a different process. Examples may include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, court records, and other certified public records. These documents should not automatically be notarized simply for the purpose of obtaining an apostille.

School records, federal documents, and documents issued by other states may also have their own certification or authentication requirements.

Because the requirements vary, we recommend having your document reviewed before having it notarized or obtaining additional certifications solely for apostille purposes.

B. Elise Notary Services can review your request and help identify the appropriate steps based on the document type, issuing authority, and country where the document will be used.

Submit an Apostille Request Form to get started.