How to Obtain an Apostille Certificate in Virginia. Step by step instructions.

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Understanding Apostille

An Apostille authenticates the seals and signatures on documents issued in one country for use in another, provided both countries are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. This certification is necessary for various documents, including legal, educational, and personal records, to be recognized internationally.

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Preparing Your Documents

Ensure your documents are original or certified copies issued by the competent authority. For educational documents, a school registrar's notarization might be required. Preparation is key to a smooth Apostille process.

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Submission and Authentication Process

Address for In-Person Submission:
Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth  
Authentication Division  
1111 East Broad St, 1st Floor  
Richmond, VA 23219

In-Person Appointment Steps:
1. Schedule an Appointment: Use the online scheduling system at Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth to make an appointment.
2. Visit the Office: Bring your prepared documents to the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth for authentication.
3. Authentication Process: Your documents will be authenticated while you wait, streamlining the process.

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Fees:

The authentication fee is $10.00 per document, not per page. If multiple documents are signed by the same official on the same date for the same country, the fee is $10.00 for the first document and $5.00 for each subsequent document. Note that overpayments of $5 or less may not be refunded. Payment should be made via check or money order to the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

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Special Note for Federal Documents:

Documents issued at the federal level, including those from the FBI, must be authenticated by the U.S. State Department, not by the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.

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Scheduling:

You can submit up to 20 documents per appointment, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your authentication needs.

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DC Mobile Notary Services

For those seeking a hassle-free experience, DC Mobile Notary offers comprehensive document authentication services. With expertise in navigating the complexities of the Apostille process, DC Mobile Notary can manage the entire procedure on your behalf.

Schedule an Appointment with DC Mobile Notary: Book Here
Contact: Call at 202-247-0837 or email support@dcmobilenotary.com for personalized service.

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Conclusion

Obtaining an Apostille in Virginia is a detailed process that requires careful preparation and understanding of the necessary steps. By following this guide, individuals can ensure their documents are authenticated correctly, whether through personal submission or by utilizing the services of DC Mobile Notary for a streamlined, hassle-free experience.

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