Which Documents Can Be Apostilled?
By John F. Heinz, Managing Director, Prismark Signature Services
Published: August 5, 2026
Quick Answer
Many types of documents may qualify for an apostille, but not every document is eligible. In general, government-issued documents and properly notarized documents are the most common documents that may receive an apostille.
The type of document, where it was issued, and the country where it will be used all affect the process.
Key Takeaways
- Many government-issued and properly notarized documents may qualify for an apostille.
- Some documents must first be obtained as certified copies or properly notarized before they may be eligible for an apostille.
- The requirements depend on the type of document.
- The destination country and the type of document both affect the process.
Call or Text Prismark Signature Services to schedule an appointment: (213) 563-0758
Common Documents That Can Be Apostilled
Some of the most common documents that may qualify for an apostille include:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Death certificates
- Divorce decrees
- Powers of attorney
- Trust and estate planning documents
- Diplomas and academic transcripts
- Corporate documents
- Court documents
- Background checks
- Adoption documents
- Affidavits and other notarized documents
Whether a document may receive an apostille depends on the type of document, who issued it, and whether it meets the requirements of the authority issuing the apostille.
Do All Documents Qualify?
No. Some documents must first be obtained as certified copies, properly notarized, or issued by the appropriate government agency before they may be eligible for an apostille. In some cases, a document may follow a federal authentication process instead of a state apostille process.
Every apostille request is different. Requirements can vary depending on the document and the country where it will be used.
How Prismark Can Help
Prismark Signature Services reviews your documents before processing begins to help determine whether they may qualify for an apostille and identify any preparation that may be required first.
Different documents can have very different requirements. A vital record may need to be an appropriate certified copy, a Power of Attorney or affidavit may require proper notarization, and court, academic, business, or federal documents may follow their own authentication process. We’ll help identify the appropriate requirements and coordinate the process from start to finish.
If your documents will be presented in a country where another language is required, Prismark can coordinate certified and sworn translations in more than 150 languages through our trusted translation partners.
For your peace of mind, Prismark is a bonded California Notary Public, background screened, and carries $1 million in Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. Your important documents are handled with professionalism, confidentiality, and care throughout the authentication process.
Whether your document requires a California apostille or coordination with another state’s apostille office, Prismark can manage the process through our trusted nationwide network of professional apostille affiliates. Federal authentication and additional legalization steps can also be coordinated when applicable.
Located just minutes from the California Secretary of State’s Los Angeles Apostille Office, Prismark offers expedited same-day California apostille service. In qualifying cases, properly prepared California documents can often be processed in as little as four hours.
Call or Text Prismark Signatures to schedule an appointment: (213) 563-0758
Related Guides
- Do I Need an Apostille?
- Who Issues an Apostille?
- What If My Document Is a Federal Document?
- Does My Document Need to Be Notarized First?
- Apostille Services in Los Angeles
Professional Notice
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Prismark Signature Services is not a law firm. If you have questions about your legal rights or which documents are appropriate for your situation, please contact the requesting organization or a qualified attorney.
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