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Common Document Standards

While specific requirements vary by country (Hague vs. Non-Hague), all documents submitted for international authentication generally must meet the following criteria:

• Original Signatures: Must be hand-signed in ink (not stamped or photocopied) unless a digital signature is explicitly accepted by the destination country.
• Proper Notarization: Must include a compliant notarial certificate, valid commission expiry, and seal/stamp.
• Clean Condition: Documents should be free of tears, excessive folding, or unauthorized markings.

Hague Apostille Convention Requirements

For countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention (e.g., France, Germany, Spain), a single certificate called an “Apostille” is required. No further embassy legalization is necessary.

Non-Hague Country Requirements

For countries not party to the convention (e.g., China, Vietnam, UAE), a multi-step chain authentication process is required:

1. Notarization
2. County Clerk Certification (in some states)
3. Secretary of State Certification
4. U.S. Department of State Authentication
5. Embassy/Consulate Legalization