Apostille Services: Understanding the Notary's Role

What is an Apostille?

An apostille is a certificate issued by the Arizona Secretary of State as part of the apostille process. It is used to authenticate the origin of a public document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.

🔏 Notary Public's Role in the Apostille Process

✔️ Notarize documents that require it (note that we do not issue apostilles).

✔️ Use proper Arizona notarial certificate wording.

✔️ Do not certify vital records or official court documents – these must come directly from the issuing agency.

✔️ You may notarize a copy certification by the document custodian (e.g., for diplomas, IDs).

📜 Documents That Require Notarization

- Power of Attorney

- Affidavit or sworn statement

- Translations with translator affidavit

- Diplomas/transcripts (if not signed by a school official)

- Copy of ID/passport with custodian affidavit

📄 Documents That Do Not Require Notarization

- Certified vital records (birth, marriage, death from ADHS)

- Certified court records (with raised seal)

- School documents signed by a school official

- AZ DPS criminal background check (signed by DPS official)

✉️ Where to Send Apostille Requests (Arizona)  

Arizona Secretary of State – Apostille Division  

1700 W. Washington Street, 7th Floor  

Phoenix, AZ 85007  

📞 (602) 542-6187  

🌐 https://azsos.gov/business/authentication  

Include the following:

- The original notarized or official document

- A cover letter with your name, contact, and destination country

- Check or money order: $3 per apostille (payable to Secretary of State)

- A self-addressed stamped envelope for return  

What steps should I take if the destination country isn't a member of the Hague Convention?

If the country you're dealing with isn't a member of the Hague Convention, they may still require document authentication. The specific requirements, which may include additional fees or paperwork, can differ based on the country in question. Always consult with the respective Consulate or Embassy to understand the exact needs.