WHAT IS AN APOSTILLE
Many of us have heard a French word - Apostille, which means certification. Apostille is a separate document, which authenticates stamps and signature on documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, court papers, name changes, and many other official documents. Apostille can be used in countries, which are members of the 1961 Hague Convention. You can check out the list of countries here: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/status-table/?cid=41
WHY DO I NEED AN APOSTILLE
In order for your foreign document to be accepted on the territory of another country, you need to Apostille that document. Once your US document has an Apostille, you will be able to use it in Russia, for example. Of course, before using that document in Russia, you will have to make a Russian certified translation of that document and your newly issued Apostille.
WHERE TO GET AN APOSTILLE
For all State-issued documents, you need to get an Apostille in the same state where your document was issued. For example, if you have a document from Illinois, you cannot get an Apostille in Wisconsin (even though you live there). You will need to receive an Apostille for that document in Illinois.
You will be able to get an Apostille at your local Secretary of State by either mailing your documents or by visiting the office in person.
HOW TO GET AN APOSTILLE
Getting an Apostille is a straightforward and an easy process. It usually costs within a range of $2-10.00 per one Apostille depending on which state you are filing it to. You will need to download and fill out an Apostille application form from an official government website. Then you will need to send your document, which needs an Apostille, your application form, and a payment in a form of a personal check or money order. You will have to include a self-addressed envelope for the officials to be able to mail your documents once they are done.
For example, if you live in Wisconsin, just google Secretary of State Wisconsin Apostille and voila: https://sos.wi.gov/apostilles.htm Be sure to use an official website. There are a lot of services, which offer Apostille services for bigger fees. They can charge you around $175.00. Instead, by doing it yourself, you can do it for less than $15.00 and that includes two envelopes and shipping charges both ways.
Good luck!
