A Comprehensive Guide to Getting an Apostille Indiana

If you’ve ever had to deal with legal or official documents, you may have come across the need for an apostille. An apostille is an internationally recognized certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document. In Indiana, your documents require an apostille if you want to use them in another country. But how do you get one? In this blog, we will guide you through the process of obtaining an apostille in Indiana.

Step 1: Determine the Type of Document

The first step to getting an apostille Indiana is to determine the type of document you need to authenticate. The most commonly authorized documents include birth certificates, marriage licenses, academic transcripts, and diplomas. However, not all documents are eligible for an apostille. Some documents, like passports, driver’s licenses, and social security cards, do not need to be authenticated. Make sure you check with the Secretary of State’s office to see if your document is eligible.

Step 2: Obtain a Certified Copy of the Document

To get an apostille in Indiana, you need to have a certified copy of the document. This means that you must obtain a copy of the original document that has been signed and stamped by the issuing authority. For example, if you need to obtain an apostille for a birth certificate, you need to obtain a certified copy of it from the Indiana State Department of Health.

Step 3: Complete the Apostille Request Form

After obtaining a certified copy of the document, you need to complete the apostille request form. You can download the apostille request form from the Secretary of State’s website. Ensure that you fill out the form with accurate and complete information. The form requires information such as the document type, the issuing authority, and your contact information.

Step 4: Submit the Request Form

After completing the form, you need to submit it to the Secretary of State’s office. Along with the form, you need to submit a certified copy of the document and a fee of $2 per document. You can submit the documents in person, by mail, or by courier.

Step 5: Wait for the Apostille

After submitting the request form and the certified copy of the document, you need to wait for the apostille. The processing time can take up to seven business days. If you need the apostille sooner, you can request expedited service for an additional fee. After the apostille is completed, you can pick it up in person, by mail, or by courier.

Obtaining an apostille in Indiana may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow the steps outlined above, and you will be on your way to getting an apostille for your documents quickly and efficiently. Remember to determine the type of document, obtain a certified copy of the document, complete the apostille request form accurately, submit the request form, and wait for the apostille. With this guide, you can rest assured that your documents will be recognized internationally, and you’re good to go!