What is an Apostille?

An Apostille certifies the validity of a notary public's signature on a document and it also certifies that the document will be used in a country that is a member of the 1961 Hague Convention will recognize it. Foreign countries accept Apostilles as proof that documents are "official". 

Apostilles and Certificates enable a public document or a notarized document issued in one country to be recognized as valid in another country. 

It's important to use a notary public to get an apostille, as trying to do it on your own can be confusing and time-consuming.

What is an Authentication Certificate?

An Authentication certifies the authenticity of the signature, seal, and position of the official who has executed, issued, or certified a copy of a public document.

An Authentication is used to certify the good standing and authority of a notary public who has notarized a document, when the document(s) are to be used in a foreign nation that is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention.

The IL Secretary of States office will provide an Authentication in the form of a Certificate.

To verify the required documents necessary to complete your transaction, contact the embassy or consulate of the country where the documents are intended to be used.

Or contact the below OFM Chicago Office as they provide reciprocal services to and liaises with foreign consulates located in the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

OFM Chicago
230 S. Dearborn St. Suite 416
Chicago, IL 60604
Phone: (312) 353-5762
Email: OFM-Chicago@state.gov

How Much Do You Charge?

Apostille Courier Services:

• $200.00 = Full In-Person Apostille Services
  • Chicago Notary Services hand delivers your documents to the IL Secretary of States Office and leaves with your Apostille in hand if approved. 
  • Our notary will hand deliver your Apostille documents to your preferred location, such as your home, office, etc. 
  • Turn around time is 3-5 days back to client depending on how many requests we receive and drop off location.

• $50.00 = Mail In Apostille Services
  • Chicago Notary Services will mail your documents to the IL Secretary of States Office along with a pre-paid label you provide to us via email. You must drop off your documents to our offices in our mail slot or in person.
  • Upon approval, IL Secretary of State will directly mail your Apostille documents in a shipping envelope with the prepaid label you provided.
  • We do charge an additional shipping fee if you do not provide a prepaid label, however, it may be cost effective if client pays for these upfront. Prepaid labels can be purchased online with the USPS, FedEx or UPS. Once purchased email to: apostille@chicagonotaryservices.com

I need to add a page to an authenticated document. Can I remove the certificate, add the page, and reattach the authentication certificate?

No. Do not remove Apostille or Certificate once they are attached to your document. Removal of the authentication will invalidate the Apostille or Certificate.

Can FBI background checks be authenticated?

No. You must request the authentication when you submit your request for the background check.

Please visit the FBI website for more information on criminal background checks or Identity History Summary Checks (Rap Sheets)

For a fee, the FBI can provide you with your Identity History Summary Check, known as a rap sheet.

Can documents issued by federal courts or agencies be authenticated?

Yes. Documents issued under the seal of a federal court or agency are only authenticated by the U.S. Department of State.

Please visit the U.S. Department of State website for information on obtaining Apostilles through the federal government.