Frequently asked questions
Straight answers on how digital delivery works and where its limits are.
What is a digital apostille?
On this site, it means a genuine paper apostille from a U.S. competent authority, scanned and delivered to you as a high-resolution PDF.
Is that the same as an e-Apostille?
No. An e-Apostille is issued electronically with a digital signature by an authority that participates in the e-APP. See the full comparison.
Will the office in Spain or Portugal accept my PDF?
That depends on the office and the document. Translators and lawyers commonly work from scans, while consulates, notaries and registries may require originals. Please confirm before ordering.
Can I get the paper original?
Tell us during your review if you may need it, so we can explain the options and any added cost for your case.
Which office apostilles my document?
Federal documents go to the U.S. Department of State. State records go to the issuing state's competent authority. Private documents notarized in Maryland go through the Maryland Secretary of State.
Why can't I notarize my FBI report?
The State Department authenticates federal documents as issued and warns that notarizing an original federal document can make it invalid for authentication.
Does an apostille expire?
The certificate itself has no expiry date. The receiving office may still limit how old the underlying document can be, particularly FBI reports and good standing certificates.
Does an apostille prove my document is true?
No. It verifies the signature, the signer's capacity and any seal. It says nothing about the content.
Should I translate before or after the apostille?
After. The translator should cover the apostille as well as the document. See the right order of steps.
Do you provide legal advice or write documents?
No. We are a document service and not a law firm. Your lawyer can draft or advise on your document.
Are you part of the government?
No. We are a private company. We are not affiliated with the FBI, FDA, U.S. Department of State or any Secretary of State.