Apostille is a French word that means “certification.” It’s a type of international stamp that verifies the authenticity of a document, making it legally recognized in countries that are members of the Hague Convention. The Hague Convention is an international treaty that simplifies the process of legalizing documents for use in foreign countries.
Bulldog Notary & Apostille provides Onsite Notary, Mobile Notary, and Apostille Services in Los Angeles, California. If you need help getting an Apostille, you can call us at (626) 620-3667.
Whether you’re a business owner, a student, or an individual, there may come a time when you need to use a document overseas. In such cases, you’ll need to obtain an Apostille. Here’s what you need to know about Apostille and why it’s important.
What is an Apostille?
An Apostille is a certificate that verifies the authenticity of a document. It’s a small stamp or seal that’s attached to the document. The stamp confirms that the document is a genuine and legally recognized document, making it acceptable for use in foreign countries that are members of the Hague Convention.
Why is an Apostille Important?
An Apostille is important because it makes your document legally recognized in foreign countries. Without an Apostille, your document may not be accepted in other countries, which can cause problems and delays.
For example, if you’re a student who needs to study abroad, you’ll need to have an Apostille on your diploma or transcripts. If you’re a business owner who needs to expand your business overseas, you’ll need to have an Apostille on your business documents.
How to Get an Apostille in California
Getting an Apostille in California is a straightforward process. You can obtain an Apostille from the California Secretary of State, which is responsible for issuing Apostilles in California.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting an Apostille in California:
- Obtain a copy of the document you want to have an Apostille.
- Get the document notarized by a California Notary Public.
- Submit the notarized document to the California Secretary of State.
- Pay the fee for the Apostille.
- Wait for the California Secretary of State to issue the Apostille.
Who Can Stamp an Apostille?
The California Secretary of State is responsible for issuing Apostilles in California. Can a California Notary issue an Apostille? No, a California Notary cannot issue an Apostille. Only the California Secretary of State can issue an Apostille.
The Role of a Notary Public
A Notary Public in Los Angeles, such as Bulldog Notary & Apostille, is a public official appointed by the Secretary of State to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths. Notaries ensure that the signer is who they claim to be, that they understand the contents of the document they are signing, and that they are signing it voluntarily.
If you need a document notarized in Los Angeles, you can find a Notary Near Me by searching online or visiting a local office supply store. You can also take advantage of Bulldog Notary & Apostille’s 24 Hour Notary Services in Los Angeles.
What is a Notary Journal
A Notary Journal is a logbook kept by a Notary Public that records all notarial acts performed. The journal must include the date, time, type of notarial act, name of the signer, type of identification used, signature of the signer, and the Notary’s signature and seal. Keeping a Notary Journal is a requirement for all Notaries in California and helps to prevent fraud and ensure the validity of notarized documents.
How to Choose a Notary Public in Los Angeles
When choosing a Notary Public in Los Angeles, it is important to look for someone who is knowledgeable, reliable, and professional. You can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers, or you can search for a Notary Near Me online.
When you meet with a potential Notary, ask about their experience, fees, and availability. You should also ask to see their Notary Journal and identification to ensure that they are a legitimate Notary Public.
Notary Fees in Los Angeles
The cost to notarize a document in Los Angeles varies depending on the type of document and the Notary’s fees. However, most Notaries in Los Angeles charge between $10 and $25 for a standard notarization. Bulldog Notary & Apostille offers affordable Notary fees in Los Angeles and is always transparent about their pricing.
How to Notarize a Document in Los Angeles
If you need to have a document notarized in Los Angeles, you can follow these steps:
- Find a Notary Public in Los Angeles, such as Bulldog Notary & Apostille
- Bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport
- Provide the document to be notarized and sign it in the presence of the Notary
- Pay the Notary fee
- The Notary will then place their stamp or seal on the document to certify that it has been notarized.
Difference Between Acknowledgement and Jurat
In Los Angeles, there are two types of notarizations: Acknowledgements and Jurats. An Acknowledgement is a notarization that confirms the identity of the signer and verifies that the signature on the document is their own. A Jurat, on the other hand, is a notarization that confirms the identity of the signer, verifies that the signature on the document is their own, and certifies that the signer made a sworn statement or oath.
When choosing a Notary, it is important to make sure that they are familiar with both types of notarizations and can help you determine which one is best for your needs.
How Long Does It Take To Get Apostille in California?
Getting an apostille in California can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the processing time at the California Secretary of State office and the type of document being apostilled. California Processing Times vary and can be impacted by holidays and peak periods.
Where Can I Process Apostille Documents?
Apostille documents can be processed at the California Secretary of State office in Sacramento, or through a private apostille service provider. Professional Apostille Service Provider can offer quicker processing times and often provide mobile or onsite services for added convenience.
Is Apostille the Same as Notarized?
No, an apostille is not the same as a notarized document. A notarized document is a document that has been signed and stamped by a notary public, certifying the authenticity of the signature on the document. An apostille, on the other hand, is a certificate issued by the Secretary of State that verifies the authenticity of a notarized document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Convention.
Can You Apostille a Passport in California?
No, you cannot apostille a passport. Passports are not considered a public document and therefore cannot be apostilled.
Do Apostille Certificates Expire?
No, apostille certificates do not expire. However, the validity of the document being apostilled may expire, in which case a new document would need to be obtained and apostilled.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Birth Certificate Apostille from California?
The time it takes to get a birth certificate apostille from California depends on the processing time at the California Secretary of State office. California Processing Times can vary, but on average it takes 2-3 weeks. Working with a Professional Apostille Service Provider can often speed up the process.
If you’re in need of an apostille in Los Angeles, consider reaching out to Bulldog Notary & Apostille. They offer Onsite Notary, Mobile Notary, and Apostille Services and are dedicated to providing fast and efficient services. Contact them today at (626) 620-3667.
Conclusion
In conclusion, apostilles are an essential part of many international transactions and can be a complicated process to navigate. That’s why it’s essential to have a professional, experienced, and reliable apostille service provider like Bulldog Notary & Apostille. We offer a full range of onsite notary, mobile notary, and apostille services in Los Angeles, California, and have the expertise to handle all of your needs, from obtaining a California Apostille to copy certification and birth certificate apostilles. Our team is dedicated to providing fast and efficient services, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you need help with an apostille or notary service, give us a call at (626) 620-3667.
About the Author
Hi there! My name is Rufus and I am a Notary Public based in Los Angeles. I own and operate three businesses including “Long Beach Notary Dude,” “Bulldog Notary & Apostille,” and “MY PO BOX LA.” I am dedicated to providing professional and efficient notary services, mobile notary services, and apostille services to the community in Los Angeles County. When I’m not working, I love sports, trying new foods, and spending time with my family. I am fluent in English and Cantonese and can also speak a very “rough” Mandarin Chinese. Consider myself a Chinese Speaking Notary in Los Angeles. Reach me anytime at (626) 620-3667 or notarydude1@gmail.com. Thanks for stopping by and I hope to be of service to you soon!