If you need to use a document in a foreign country, you may be asked to get an apostille. An apostille is a special type of certification that verifies the authenticity of a document and is recognized by all members of the Hague Convention, an international treaty governing the recognition of public documents. If you live in Charlotte, NC, and need an apostille, you can count on Lake Norman Notary to provide fast, reliable, and professional service.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of a public document, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or diploma. It is issued by the Secretary of State's office in the state where the document was issued. An apostille does not verify the content of the document, only its authenticity.
When Do I Need an Apostille?
If you need to use a public document in a foreign country, you may be required to obtain an apostille. An apostille is necessary when the country where you plan to use the document is a member of the Hague Convention. Some examples of when you may need an apostille include:
Applying for a work visa or residency in a foreign country
Registering a marriage or divorce in a foreign country
Enrolling in a foreign university or school
Buying or selling property in a foreign country
If you are not sure whether you need an apostille, contact the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to use the document.
How Do I Get an Apostille in Charlotte, NC?
To obtain an apostille in Charlotte, NC, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Get a certified copy of the document
Before you can get an apostille, you need to get a certified copy of the document from the office that issued it. For example, if you need an apostille for a birth certificate, you need to get a certified copy of the birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born.
Step 2: Contact a Notary Public or Apostille Service
Once you have a certified copy of the document, you can contact a notary public or an apostille service like Lake Norman Notary. An experienced notary public can help you get your document apostilled quickly and efficiently.
Step 3: Submit the Document for Apostille
The notary public or apostille service will submit your document to the Secretary of State's office in the state where the document was issued. The Secretary of State's office will then verify the authenticity of the document and attach an apostille.
Step 4: Receive Your Apostilled Document
Once the apostille is attached, the notary public or apostille service will return the document to you. You can then use the document in any member country of the Hague Convention.
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