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California · CA · Free document review

California Apostille Services — Fast & Simple Mail-In Processing

Apostille Global Services provides fast, secure California apostille services by mail for individuals, families, students, professionals, and businesses. We handle California-issued documents, prepare them for submission to the California Secretary of State — Notary Public Section, and return them with full tracking via USPS, FedEx, or DHL.

Not sure whether your California document must be an original or a notarized copy? We review your documents and guide you before submission so you know exactly what to send.

Issuing authority
California Secretary of State — Notary Public Section
Processing time
3-6 weeks
State fee
$20 per document · Vital records: $26
Amelia, Apostille Global Services agent
Speak with Amelia. Before you mail any originals, text or email a clear photo or scan of your document.

3-Step Process — Fast & Easy

01

Send a Photo or Scan

We review your document first so you know what is required before mailing anything.

02

Mail Your Documents

Once confirmed, mail your documents from anywhere in the U.S. or abroad.

03

We Submit & Return

We prepare, submit, and return your completed documents with tracking via USPS, FedEx, or DHL.

Processing times vary by document type, state processing volume, and shipping method. Expedited service available.

Why you may need an apostille for California documents

An apostille is required when a California-issued document will be used in a country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It confirms the document's authenticity so it can be legally recognized abroad. If the destination country is not part of the Hague Convention, California issues a certification instead.

Common reasons California documents need an apostille include dual citizenship, visa applications, studying abroad, marriage abroad, international business, adoption, and foreign legal requirements.

California documents & requirements (handled for you)

We assist with apostille requests for a wide range of California-issued documents, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, diplomas, academic transcripts, powers of attorney, affidavits, background checks, notarized documents, and business or corporate records.

Notarization & preparation rules

Notary jurat or acknowledgment wording must match California statute exactly.

  • Los Angeles regional office offers same-day drop-off service.
  • FBI background checks require federal apostille via U.S. Dept. of State.
  • High volume for China, Mexico, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.

If you are unsure whether your document qualifies or how it needs to be prepared, we review your documents in advance and guide you before submission to help prevent delays or rejections.

Documents we apostille from California

  • Birth, marriage, and death certificates
  • FBI background checks
  • Diplomas and transcripts
  • Power of attorney
  • Corporate documents (Articles of Incorporation, Good Standing)
  • Single status affidavits

Quick Facts: California Apostille

Who issues them?
California Secretary of State — Notary Public Section
State fee
$20 per document · Vital records: $26
Turnaround time
Typically 3-6 weeks after we receive your documents, depending on document type, state workload, and shipping method.

Common California apostille searches

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Frequently Asked Questions

California apostille questions

How long does it take to get an apostille in California?

California apostilles are issued by the California Secretary of State — Notary Public Section. Standard processing is typically 3-6 weeks after we receive your documents, depending on document type, state workload, and shipping method.

How much does a California apostille cost?

Prices vary. The California Secretary of State — Notary Public Section charges a $20 state fee per document (Vital records: $26). Our service fee covers document review, preparation, submission, tracking, and return shipping. Expedited service and other options may be added when needed. We confirm the total cost upfront before anything is mailed.

What documents can be apostilled in California?

Common California documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, diplomas, school transcripts, powers of attorney, affidavits, background checks, notarized documents, and business or corporate records.

Do I need an original or a certified copy for a California apostille?

It depends on the document type. Public documents must bear the proper official signature and seal. Notarized documents must be properly notarized by a currently commissioned California notary public. We confirm exactly what you need during document review.

Can a California birth certificate be apostilled?

Yes. California birth certificates can be apostilled if they are official certified copies bearing the required signature and seal. We verify your copy before you mail it to avoid delays.

Can notarized documents be apostilled in California?

Yes. Notarized documents such as affidavits, powers of attorney, and business documents can be apostilled when they bear the official signature and seal of a currently commissioned California notary public. Notary jurat or acknowledgment wording must match California statute exactly.

Where are apostilles issued in California?

Apostilles for California-issued documents are issued by the California Secretary of State — Notary Public Section in Sacramento.

Can California documents be apostilled for use in another country?

Apostilles are used for documents going to countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. If the destination country is not part of the Hague Convention, a certification or legalization is required instead.

Do I need to be in California to get a California apostille?

No. You can mail your documents from anywhere in the United States. We handle submission to the California Secretary of State — Notary Public Section and return your documents with tracking.

Do you review my California documents before I mail them?

Yes. We strongly recommend a free document review first. Send a photo or scan, and we will confirm requirements so you know exactly what to send.

How do I get started with a California apostille?

Call or text 503-519-1091 to start with a document review, or email apostilleglobalservices@gmail.com. We guide you step by step before submission.