Digital apostille vs e-Apostille
The two terms sound the same, and many websites use them interchangeably. For your application, the difference can matter.
| Our digital apostille service | e-Apostille | |
|---|---|---|
| Issued as | Paper certificate with signature and seal | Electronic certificate with a digital signature |
| What you receive | A high-resolution PDF scan of the paper apostille | The original electronic file |
| Issued by | Maryland Secretary of State or U.S. Department of State | Only authorities that have adopted the program |
| Legal status of your file | A copy of an original apostille | The original apostille itself |
Who issues e-Apostilles in the United States
The electronic Apostille Programme (e-APP) is run by the Hague Conference on Private International Law. U.S. adoption happens state by state. The Hague Conference has reported e-Apostilles from Connecticut, Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana, Rhode Island, Utah and Washington, each with its own rules. Connecticut, for example, excludes vital records.
We found no e-Apostille program at the Maryland Secretary of State or the U.S. Department of State when this page was written, so the documents we handle receive paper apostilles.
When a scan can work
- A sworn translator is preparing a translation from your file.
- A lawyer or agent is reviewing the papers in advance.
- An office has confirmed in writing that it accepts a digital copy.
When a scan will probably not be enough
- The checklist asks for an original.
- A notary will incorporate the document into a deed.
- A land or commercial registry files the original.
If you are unsure, send us the wording you were given and we will help you read it. The final decision always belongs to the office receiving your document.