Question 1

What is an apostille and when do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An apostille is a certificate issued under the 1961 Hague Convention that authenticates the signature and seal on a public document so it is legally recognized in another member country. You need one whenever a foreign government, employer, university, or court asks you to submit a US-issued document abroad.

Question 2

Do I get an apostille from Pennsylvania or the federal government?

Accepted Answer

It depends on who issued the document. State-issued records (PA vital records, PA notarized documents, PA diplomas) go to Harrisburg. Federally-issued documents (FBI background checks, USCIS documents, IRS letters) go to the US Department of State in Washington, DC.

Question 3

How long does an apostille take in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Pennsylvania standard turnaround is 5–10 business days. With rush service through our courier network we can often complete the state step in 2–3 business days.

Question 4

How long does a federal apostille take?

Accepted Answer

The US Department of State currently processes federal apostilles in 10–15 business days. Federal cannot be rushed at the agency itself, so we can only accelerate the courier legs.

Question 5

Can you apostille my FBI background check?

Accepted Answer

Yes. FBI Identity History Summaries are federal documents, so they go to the US Department of State. We handle it end-to-end — we can also help you request the FBI check itself through an approved channeler.

Question 6

What if my destination country is not part of the Hague Convention?

Accepted Answer

Non-Hague countries (China, UAE, Vietnam, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and others) require chain authentication instead of an apostille. That usually means state or federal certification followed by legalization at the destination country's embassy in Washington, DC.

Question 7

Do I need the original document or is a copy okay?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the document. Vital records must be certified originals from the issuing state. Diplomas and transcripts usually need to be notarized copies. FBI checks can be electronic PDFs. When in doubt, use our Apostille Wizard or Checklist Builder.

Question 8

Do I need a certified translation?

Accepted Answer

Certified translation is a destination-country requirement, not an apostille requirement. Some countries require translation before the apostille is issued, others after. We can advise based on the receiving country and often coordinate the translator for you.

Question 9

Do you offer mobile notary and pickup?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer mobile notary service and document pickup throughout Philadelphia and South Jersey, and we handle secure return shipping anywhere.

Apostille & Notary FAQ Hub

Still have questions?