Illinois Apostille FAQ
Answers to common questions about the apostille process in Illinois.
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document for international use under the Hague Apostille Convention. It verifies the signature, seal, or stamp on the document so it is recognized by foreign governments.
How do I get an apostille in Illinois?
To get an apostille in Illinois, you must submit your document to the Illinois Secretary of State. The document must bear an original signature from a recognized Illinois official or notary public. You can submit in person in Springfield or Chicago, or by mail.
What documents can be apostilled in Illinois?
Common documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, divorce decrees, FBI background checks, corporate documents (articles of incorporation, certificates of good standing), powers of attorney, diplomas, and transcripts.
How long does the Illinois apostille process take?
Processing times vary. In-person requests at the Secretary of State offices in Springfield or Chicago can often be completed the same day. Mail-in requests typically take 5-10 business days, not including mailing time.
How much does an apostille cost in Illinois?
The Illinois Secretary of State charges $2 per apostille. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing, shipping, or if you use a professional apostille service to handle the process on your behalf.
Can I get an apostille for a federal document in Illinois?
No. Federal documents such as FBI background checks, patents, and federal court orders must be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., not by the Illinois Secretary of State.
What is the difference between an apostille and authentication?
An apostille is used for countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. Authentication (or legalization) is required for non-Hague countries and involves a multi-step process through the Secretary of State and the destination country embassy or consulate.
Do I need to notarize my document before getting an apostille?
It depends on the document. Certified copies from government agencies (like birth certificates) generally do not need separate notarization. However, private documents such as powers of attorney or affidavits must be notarized by an Illinois notary public before an apostille can be issued.
Can I apostille a photocopy of my document?
You cannot apostille a plain photocopy. However, you can have a notary public create a notarized copy of the original document, and then that notarized copy can receive an apostille from the Illinois Secretary of State.
Which countries accept an Illinois apostille?
Any country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention will accept an Illinois apostille. This includes over 120 countries such as Mexico, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and many more.