If you need a document authenticated for use internationally, you may need to get an apostille. An Apostille is a legal certification that confirms the authenticity of a document. In Illinois, apostilles are issued by the Secretary of State. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of getting an apostille in Illinois and answer some common questions about the process.
What documents can be apostilled in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can apostille any documents that are issued by an Illinois state agency, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, court orders, and more. However, if you need to apostille a document that was not issued by an Illinois state agency, such as a diploma or transcript, you will need to follow the federal authentication process through the US Department of State in Washington, DC.
How to Apply for an Apostille in Illinois
To get an apostille in Illinois, you will need to submit your request to the Illinois Secretary of State. The Secretary of State offers different methods of submitting the request, including in-person, by mail, and through an online portal. You will need to complete an Apostille Request Form, which you can download from the Secretary of State’s website. The form will require you to provide your contact information, the type of document you want to apostille, and any other relevant information.
Illinois Apostille Service Providers
If you need an apostille quickly or do not have time to submit your request on your own, you can also use an Illinois apostille service provider. These service providers are private companies that work with the Secretary of State’s office to provide faster processing times and more personalized services.
Apostille in Illinois
Illinois Secretary of State Apostille Locations
If you prefer to submit your request in person, you can visit one of the Secretary of State’s locations that offer apostille services. These locations are located in Chicago, Springfield, and Joliet. Note that some locations may have limited hours or require an appointment, so make sure to check before visiting.
Fees and Processing Times for Illinois Apostilles
The fee for an apostille in Illinois is $2 per document. For expedited services, an additional fee of $20 is charged. Processing times can vary depending on the method of submission and the complexity of the request. In-person submissions can often be processed within 1-2 business days, while mail-in requests can take up to 10 business days.
Getting an apostille in Illinois may seem like a daunting task, but it is manageable if you follow the right steps. Whether you choose to submit your request in person or use a service provider, make sure you have all the necessary documents and information before starting the process. With this guide, we hope we’ve helped you understand the process and feel confident in obtaining an apostille in Illinois.
This process requires you to obtain an apostille or authentication from the Secretary of State’s office in Illinois. This can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the process or where to begin. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about Illinois authentication and apostille services, including the requirements, costs, and locations.
What is an Apostille or Authentication?
An apostille or authentication is a certificate that verifies the authenticity of a document, such as a birth or marriage certificate, college diploma, or a power of attorney. This certificate is an essential requirement for personal or business documents that you will use overseas.
Where Can I Get an Apostille or Authentication?
In Illinois, the Secretary of State’s office is responsible for issuing apostilles and authentications. The office has several locations throughout the state, including Chicago, Springfield, and Joliet. To get an apostille or authentication, you can visit any of these offices in person or through the mail. If you’re applying in person, the processing time can take as little as an hour, and for mail-in applications, the processing time varies from seven to ten business days.
What Documents Require an Apostille or Authentication?
If you’re planning to work, study, or live in another country, you will need to provide authenticated documents. Some of the documents that require an apostille or authentication include birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, adoption papers, power of attorney, diplomas, and transcripts.
How Much Does an Apostille or Authentication Cost?
The cost of an apostille or authentication in Illinois varies depending on the type of document and the processing time. The standard processing time for an apostille or authentication is $2 per document, while expedited processing costs $10 per document. If you’re requesting an apostille or authentication through the mail. You will be required to include a self-addressed stamped envelope. The fee for an apostille or authentication for a federal document is $8 per document.
In conclusion, obtaining an apostille or authentication in Illinois is a necessary process. If you’re planning to work, study or live in another country. However, the process doesn’t have to be a daunting one. The Secretary of State’s office has made the process easy. And you can obtain your apostille or authentication in person or through the mail. Just remember to have all your documents in order, and you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your certificate.
