Apostilles

What is an Apostille? 

An "apostille" is a form of authentication issued to documents for use in countries that participate in the Hague Convention of 1961. If the country of intended use does not participate in the Hague Convention , documents being sent to that country can obtain a Certificate of Authentication. 


Can a Texas Notary do an Apostille?

The Secretary of State of Texas may issue an Apostille on documents issued by persons on file with this agency, including county clerks, notaries public, statewide officials. 


How to Request an Apostille



What is the difference between Apostilled and Authenticated?

An apostille is for documents to be used in countries that participate in the 1961 Hague Convention Treaty. Authentication certificates are for documents to be used in countries that do not participate in the 1961 Hague Convention Treaty. 


Who can Apostille a document?

An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document. It is issued by a country that is party to the Apostille Convention to be used in another country which is also a party to the Convention. 


How much does it cost to get an Apostille in Texas?

As of May 2022, you can request apostilles with the Texas Secretary of State by mail or in person. Submit the original notarized or certified document, a self-addressed envelope, and the foreign country in which the apostille will be used, and the state will issue the apostille. The state fee is $15 per authentication. 


How long will it take to process my request for an Apostille in the State of Texas? 

In the State of Texas apostilles are issued by the office of the Texas Secretary of State, in Austin Authentications Unit. 

Price and processing time: Price is $15 per apostille with payment made to the “Texas Secretary of State”. Processing time is same-day counter service or 10 days for mailed orders.