Document authentication guide
Apostille or authentication?
Start with the destination.
The country of use and document origin help determine the applicable route. The terms should not be treated as interchangeable.
Two questions come first.
Where was the document issued, and where will it be used? These details identify the authorities and destination requirements that need to be checked.
An apostille may apply where the relevant treaty relationship is in force. Other requests may involve a different authentication or certification route and additional consular requirements.
Check the current official position.
Use the HCCH Apostille Convention status information alongside the relevant issuing authority’s instructions and the recipient’s requirements. Hague Conference membership alone does not establish whether the Apostille Convention applies to a particular request.
Official starting references
Alabama Secretary of State: Authentications ↗
HCCH: Apostille Convention status ↗
Official references reviewed in Phase 1 on October 15, 2026. Requirements must be reconfirmed for the specific document and destination.
What this means for your inquiry.
Tell us the document type, issuing authority, destination and intended use. We will discuss the assistance available and which details must be confirmed before you proceed.
Return to international authentication ↗A clear place to start
Tell us what you need.
We’ll work out the next step.
Share the service, location and deadline. For international documents, include the issuing authority and destination country.
Discuss your request ↗