An Apostille (pronounced “uh-POS-tihl (əˈpɑːstl)”) is a certificate that verifies the authenticity of a public document by confirming the signature, seal, and official capacity of the public official who issued it. This certification ensures the document is internationally recognized and accepted for use in another country. However, an Apostille does not validate the content of the document itself.

Apostille certificates are for documents used in countries that are part of the 1961 Hague Convention Treaty, while authentication certificates are for documents used in countries that are not part of the 1961 Hague Convention Treaty.

The California Secretary of State issues a single Apostille for documents intended for use outside the United States, regardless of the destination country. The document requiring an Apostille must either be signed by a California public official or be an original notarized or certified document. Photocopies are not acceptable.