PM Schlüssel

An apostille may seem like a little step in your grand international plan, but let’s be honest: it is. Your well organized documentation can all fall to pieces with just a single slip-up. The most typical (and expensive) blunder? The proper paper being submitted but with an incorrect signature or no certification at all. Learn more for more explanations!

Typically, something like this would happen: someone is going to get married in Mexico or go to school in France. Their diploma or proof of birth has to be apostille quickly. Prior to receiving the rejection notice, everything appears to be in order. Why? Just because the signature on the document doesn’t match the official recognized by the state or country that issued it. The original signature must be on the approved list in order for an apostille to be appended. Who signed the document is more important than the document itself.

For instance, in order to be valid, a birth certificate needs to be signed by the registrar and issued by the state’s vital records office. It won’t do if the notary public at the corner post office stamps a photocopy. It’s almost the same as giving airport security a copy of your passport—near, but not quite.

Yet another typical error? Altered or corrupted documents. Just by removing a staple, attaching a sticky note, or erasing a misspelling, it becomes null and void. For an apostille, the original document must be in perfect condition. Inspecting anything for signs of manipulation can result in its return.

Also, make note of when things expire. A notary public whose commission has recently lapsed? Totally pointless. Make sure that all credentials and dates are up-to-date at all times.

The astute choice? Check the signer’s identity, the authority granting the apostille, and scan all documents before sending them. An easy way to avoid weeks of delay is to contact your state’s secretary of state via phone or online.

Attention to detail is key in this game. Everything might go wrong if you miss a single signature or fold. If you put in the time and effort to prepare, your paperwork will go through the mail without a hitch.