The process of getting your diploma, official transcripts and enrollment/graduation verification letters certified for use in a foreign country is often called “getting them legalized.” The requirement to obtain an apostille or authentication depends on the country in which you will be working or studying. You will need to check with the organization receiving your documents to confirm that they require an apostille. If you do need to have your documents legalized, StudentLink can notarize them for you and then assist you with obtaining the apostille. URL https://apostille-usa.com/apostille-documents/

The NDNY cannot authenticate private documents such as birth, marriage or death certificates; drivers’ licenses; passports; court-ordered domestic partnerships; or any other private documents filed on the docket in a civil, criminal or miscellaneous case. The County Clerk can only affix an apostille to public documents, including those signed by notaries public and County Clerks.

Choosing the Right Document Apostille Service for Your Needs

An apostille or certificate of authentication is an international certification that authenticates the signatures and seals on public documents. The apostille is provided under the authority of the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (1961).

If your document requires an apostille, it should be taken to the New York State Department of State Office of Authentications. The Department of State charges a fee per document. You can contact the Authentications office by phone or visit their website for information on making an appointment, necessary forms and business hours. You can also request a document to be authenticated by the U.S. Department of State Authentications Office through their website.