Free tool
Apostille or embassy legalization?
Pick the country where the document will be used and the kind of document. We show the usual route and who issues it.
How it works
The usual steps
- Find out what the receiving country accepts. Countries in the Apostille Convention accept an apostille. Others usually need legalization through their embassy.
- Get the right document. A vital record needs a certified copy from the issuing office. A private document, such as a power of attorney or an affidavit, must be notarized first.
- Send it to the right issuer. New Jersey documents go to the Department of the Treasury, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. Federal documents go to the U.S. Department of State.
- Add any extras. Some countries also want a certified translation or a second certification. Ask the receiving office before you start.
We can handle the notarization and the apostille request for you.
FAQ
About this finder
What is an apostille?
A certificate that makes a U.S. public document valid in another country that belongs to the Apostille Convention. For countries outside the convention, the document usually goes through a longer legalization route, often involving the embassy.
Who issues an apostille in New Jersey?
For New Jersey public documents and notarized documents, the Department of the Treasury, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. Federal documents, such as FBI background checks, are authenticated by the U.S. Department of State.
Why are only some countries listed?
We list the countries whose status we have checked against published sources. For any other country, use the official Hague Conference status table, and ask the office or agency abroad what it requires.
Is this legal advice?
No. It is general guidance. The receiving country or agency decides what it accepts, and a translation, an extra certification or a specific form may be required.
Need help with an apostille? See our apostille service, or read the guide for U.S. citizens abroad.