Apostille Request

Apostille Request: A Complete Guide to Getting Your Documents Authenticated for International Use

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Apostille Request: If you need to use a U.S. document in a foreign country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, you’ll likely be required to submit an apostille request. This process can seem overwhelming if you’re not familiar with government protocols, but with the right guidance—or a trusted service like Rais Apostille Services—it becomes quick and stress-free.

In this article, we explain what an apostille request involves, how to correctly prepare and submit one, and how our team can handle the process for you from start to finish.

What Is an Apostille?

An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the signature and seal of a public document for use in another country. It verifies the legitimacy of the document without needing additional certification from the foreign embassy.

This authentication process is valid only between countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.

What Is an Apostille Request?

An apostille request refers to the process of submitting a document to a designated authority (typically the Secretary of State or the U.S. Department of State) to receive an apostille. The request must include:

  • The original or certified copy of the document

  • A completed apostille request form (also called a cover sheet)

  • Applicable fees

  • A return envelope (if mailing)

  • Additional documentation depending on the document type

Each state and federal agency has its own procedures, making it critical to follow the correct format.

When Do You Need to Submit an Apostille Request?

You need to submit an apostille request if you’re planning to use documents abroad for:

  • Marriage in a foreign country

  • International adoption

  • Dual citizenship or ancestral rights

  • Visa or residency applications

  • Foreign business transactions

  • Education or employment abroad

Common documents requiring apostille include:

  • Birth certificates

  • Marriage licenses

  • Diplomas and transcripts

  • FBI background checks

  • Power of attorney

  • Naturalization certificates

  • Business agreements and corporate documents

Where to Submit an Apostille Request

The destination of your apostille request depends on the origin of the document:

1. State-Issued Documents

These must be apostilled by the Secretary of State in the state where the document was issued. Examples include:

  • Birth or death certificates

  • Marriage licenses

  • Notarized affidavits

  • State-issued diplomas

Each state has a unique process, form, and fee schedule.

2. Federal Documents

Documents issued by U.S. federal agencies—such as FBI background checks or USCIS naturalization records—must be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State using Form DS-4194.

How to Make an Apostille Request (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a breakdown of the apostille request process:

Step 1: Identify the Document Type

Determine whether your document is state or federally issued. This defines which authority you’ll submit the request to.

Step 2: Obtain the Proper Document

Make sure you have the original or a certified copy. Photocopies or scans are not accepted unless properly notarized.

Step 3: Complete the Apostille Request Form

Each jurisdiction requires a specific form. For example:

  • New York: Apostille Request Form (DOS-1961)

  • California: Apostille Mail Request Cover Sheet

  • Federal: Form DS-4194

Step 4: Submit to the Correct Office

You can submit your documents by mail or in person (depending on the state). Include payment and a return envelope with tracking.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary:

  • State apostilles: 5–15 business days

  • Federal apostilles: 7–20 business days

  • Expedited options: Available through Rais Apostille Services

Why Use Rais Apostille Services for Your Apostille Request?

At Rais Apostille Services, we manage apostille requests nationwide and internationally. Our clients choose us because we offer:

✅ Experience in all 50 states and at the federal level
✅ Document review to avoid rejections
✅ Same-day and expedited service available
✅ Secure document handling and shipping
✅ Transparent, flat-rate pricing
✅ Multilingual assistance

We handle all paperwork and submit your apostille request on your behalf, ensuring accuracy, speed, and peace of mind.

Apostille Request Tips

  • Always confirm the destination country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention.

  • Double-check your documents are certified or notarized properly.

  • Do not staple or damage the original document.

  • Use a trackable shipping method for both sending and return.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is included in an apostille request?

An apostille request includes:

  • The document requiring authentication

  • A completed request form

  • Government fee

  • Return envelope or shipping label

Can I submit an apostille request online?

Some states allow you to begin the process online, but the original documents must usually be mailed or submitted in person. Rais Apostille handles this entire process for you.

How long does an apostille request take?

Processing can take 5–20 business days depending on the issuing authority and whether expedited service is used.

Can I make an apostille request from abroad?

Yes. You can mail your U.S. documents to Rais Apostille from anywhere in the world, and we’ll handle the full apostille process.

What if I send the request to the wrong agency?

It will delay processing or result in a rejection. Using Rais Apostille Services ensures your request is sent to the correct authority the first time.

Start Your Apostille Request Today

If you’re ready to have your documents accepted internationally, let Rais Apostille Services manage the entire apostille request process for you. We serve individuals, law firms, schools, adoption agencies, and corporations with fast, accurate document authentication.

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