Apostille or Authentication of the Federal Document:
Immigration Documents
Foreign countries require that any document issued by a U.S. Federal Agency must be Authenticated or Apostilled in order to be accepted in a foreign jurisdiction. Included in this requirement are documents signed or notarized overseas by an American Consular Officer or military public notary.
Authenticating a document verifies the document's source so foreign institutions can be assured that documents are genuine.
A Federally issued document must be Authenticated or Apostilled by the US Department of State (USDOS) in Washington, DC. It must be an original document and have the seal and authorized signature of the issuing department.
Immigration Documents
Immigration documents are essential papers that verify a person's identity and immigration status, enabling them to legally enter, reside, and work in a country. They are used to prove lawful presence for various purposes, including employment, education, healthcare, and other essential services.
Common examples include:
I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record):
This document confirms your entry and exit from the US. It may be needed for various purposes abroad and might require an apostille for international recognition.
Employment Authorization Documents (EADs):
If you have an EAD, you may need to have it apostilled for use in countries that require documentation of your employment status.
Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards):
These cards, also known as Form I-551, are important proof of your permanent residency and may need an apostille for use in other countries.
How to Obtain an Apostille or Authentication
Have the Right Document:
Make sure you have the original Immigration document or a certified copy.
A certified copy must have a certificate stating it's a true copy, along with the issuing agency's seal and authorized signature.
2. Translation (if required):
If the destination country requires a translation, have a professional translator translate the certificate and have the translation notarized. Do not notarize the original document.
Need help? We offer certified document translations through our partner service: Certified Document Translation
3. Apostille or Authentication:
The final step is submitting your document to the U.S. Department of State for apostille or authentication.
Although turnaround times may vary- our agents should be able to assist you with having your Immigration document apostilled or authenticated within 9-10 business days.
Important: Each type of federal document may require a different process, especially if it involves sensitive, personal, or agency-restricted records.
To ensure accuracy and avoid rejections, we recommend using one of our Notary Apostille Agents to handle this part of the process for you.
We always try to seek Notary Apostille Agents who have taken extensive training as Notaries and Apostille Facilitators through the following respected training companies. Please always ask any Notary Apostille Facilitator you hire to provide you with their credentials and expertise:
