Apostille Certificate

How it works

The apostille is an authentication process that certifies the validity of documents in other countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention. It is not an academic document and it is not issued by the school, but by an authorized public authority: in Brazil, an authorized notary office; in the United States, the Secretary of State of the state that issued the document. Before starting the process, check with the institution that will recognize your diploma whether the apostille is actually required, since the process has a cost and takes several weeks to complete and to be sent internationally.

Step by step

1. Check whether it is required.
   • Confirm with the institution where you will have your diploma recognized whether the Hague Apostille is necessary.
   • Keep any formal written reply for future reference.
   • Because the process has long timelines, plan your request ahead of time as soon as you confirm it is required.
2. Gather the documents.
   • Set aside the documents that need an apostille (for example, diploma and transcript).
   • Use certified copies or the original documents required.
   • Also confirm whether the destination institution requires a certified translation of the documents, in addition to the apostille.
3. Find an authorized authority.
   • In Brazil, look for an authorized notary office (cartório) to issue the apostille.
   • In the United States, contact the Secretary of State of the state that issued the document.
   • In other countries, check with local authorities which agency is responsible for apostilles.
4. Request the apostille.
   • Submit or send the documentation to the responsible authority.
   • Pay the applicable fees, which vary by location and by issuing authority.
5. Wait for the processing time.
   • Issuance takes 8 to 10 weeks after the documentation is received by the responsible authority.
   • If international shipping is involved, allow 4 to 7 additional weeks for that step.
6. Receive and keep the document.
   • Check that the apostille certificate is properly attached to the document.
   • Keep it in a safe place until it is delivered to the institution, and make a digital copy to protect against damage to the original.

Frequently asked questions

The apostilled document was rejected by the destination institution. What should I do?

Confirm that the destination country is a signatory to the Hague Convention and that the apostille was issued by the correct authority for that document.

The international shipment of the apostilled document was delayed. What should I do?

Use a courier service with tracking and, if possible, purchase shipping insurance.

Didn't work? Do this

See also

• List of countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention (HCCH)
• Information on authorized notary offices in Brazil (CNJ)