Apostille assistance

An apostille is a certificate that confirms a document is genuine, so it can be used in another country. The US and Israel are both part of the Hague Apostille Convention. WHAT IT IS USED FOR • Birth and marriage certificates • Background checks • Academic documents • Notarized documents and powers of attorney HOW TO GET ONE IN THE US • State-issued documents: Contact the Secretary of State's office in the state where the document was issued. • Federal documents (such as FBI background checks): Apply through the US Department of State. • Notarized documents: Usually go to the state's Secretary of State. STEPS • Get the original or a certified copy. • Submit it with the application and fee. • Wait for the apostille to be attached. • Translate the document afterward if needed. TIPS • Start early, since processing can take weeks. • Many states offer expedited service for a fee. • Use a reputable apostille service if you are far from the office or in a rush. • Make sure the document is the right kind. For example, some offices accept only recently issued copies. WATCH OUT FOR Apostille requirements vary by state and document type. Always check the current instructions.