Authentication
Getting Your Document Ready for International Use
An apostille certifies that a document — a birth certificate, power of attorney, diploma, or business record — is authentic for use in another country. The process typically starts with proper notarization, then moves through Maryland's state authentication office. We help you get each step right the first time, so your document isn't rejected and sent back for correction.
How the Process Works
1. Notarization
Most documents need to be notarized before they're eligible for apostille certification. We handle this step at your convenience — no need to track down a notary and a state office separately.
2. State Authentication
Once notarized, the document is submitted to the Maryland Secretary of State's office for apostille certification. We guide you through what's required and help prepare your submission correctly.
3. Ready for Use Abroad
With the apostille attached, your document is recognized as authentic in any country that's party to the Hague Apostille Convention — no further embassy legalization needed.
Why a Rejected Apostille Submission Costs You More Than Time
The Maryland Secretary of State's office will reject a submission for small, easily missed reasons — an incorrectly worded notarial certificate, a signature that doesn't match the notary's commission exactly, or a document type that needs a different authentication path entirely. Each rejection means resubmitting, which can mean another trip downtown, another wait, and in some cases another notarization fee. Getting the notarization and paperwork right on the first attempt is the difference between a document that's ready to send abroad and one that's stuck in a resubmission cycle right when you need it most.
Common Documents We Help With
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Power of attorney documents
- Diplomas and academic transcripts
- Business and corporate records
Need a Document Apostilled?
Call 443-332-3559 or request an appointment and we'll walk you through exactly what your document needs.
Start Your Apostille RequestFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the apostille process take?
Notarization can typically be completed the same day we meet. State authentication timing depends on the Maryland Secretary of State's office and whether you submit by mail or in person — walk-in submissions are generally faster than mailed requests. We can walk you through current turnaround expectations when you book.
Does every document need to be notarized before it can get an apostille?
Most do, but not all — some government-issued records like certified birth or marriage certificates may already qualify without additional notarization. We can help you confirm what your specific document needs before you start the process.
Will an apostille work for any country?
An apostille is recognized by any country that's a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, which covers most, but not all, countries. If your destination country isn't a member, a different authentication process called legalization is required instead — we can help you determine which applies to your situation.
Can you help if I'm short on time before a walk-in visit to the state office?
Yes — we get your document properly notarized ahead of time so it's ready to submit the moment you arrive. See our Annapolis Apostille Checklist for the specific walk-in cutoff time and document limits at the Secretary of State's office.