If you need to use a document within the legal system outside of the United States, you may need an apostille. An apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of the signature(s) on a document. In Chicago, there are several different services and locations where you can obtain an apostille. In this blog post, we’ll provide a complete guide to apostille services in Chicago, including where to go, what to bring, and what to expect.
What is an apostille?
An apostille is an internationally recognized certification that verifies the authenticity of a document. It is a seal that is placed on the back of a document by a government agency, indicating that the document is genuine and can be used in countries that are part of the Hague Convention. Frequently apostilles are needed for important legal documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, and education diplomas.
Where to get an apostille in Chicago?
The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office is responsible for issuing apostilles in the State of Illinois. They have several offices located throughout Chicago where you can go to obtain an apostille. The two most commonly used locations are the Chicago Loop office and the Chicago West office. The Loop office is located at 69 W. Washington St., Suite 1240, while the West office is located at 5301 W. Lexington St.
What to bring with you when getting an apostille?
When you are getting an apostille Chicago, you will need to bring the original document that you want to have apostilled, as well as a valid government-issued photo ID. You will also need to pay a fee for the apostille service. The fee can vary depending on the type of document you are having the apostille, so it’s best to check the Secretary of State’s website or call ahead to confirm the current fee.
How long does it take to get an apostille in Chicago?
The time it takes to obtain an apostille in Chicago can vary depending on the office and how busy they are. In general, you can expect the process to take anywhere from a few hours to a few business days. If time is a concern, you can usually request expedited service for an additional fee.
In conclusion, obtaining an apostille in Chicago can be a simple process, as long as you know where to go and what to bring. By going to one of the Secretary of State’s offices and bringing your original document and a valid ID, you can have your document apostilled and verified as authentic for international use. With this complete guide to apostille services in Chicago, you can be confident that you have all the information you need to handle this important process with ease.
Apostille Chicago
Simply put, an apostille is an internationally recognized form of authentication, like a notarization. The Hague Convention of 1961 outlines the rules for apostilles, and the U.S. joined the Convention in 1981. An apostille is a certificate attached to the original document. That verifies the identity of the signatory who signed the document. Certifies the capacity in which they acted, and seals everything with an apostille stamp or seal.
What types of documents require an apostille?
Generally speaking, any type of official document can require an apostille. Some of the most common documents that people have the apostille on are birth and death certificates. Marriage licenses, diplomas, transcripts, power of attorney, and other legal papers like adoption or divorce decrees. Note that if the document is not a public one, like a personal letter. Or a company contract, may not be eligible for an apostille.
The two most used locations are the Chicago Loop office and the Chicago West office.
