If you’re planning to use official documents abroad, you’ll likely need an apostille to verify their authenticity. Whether you need an apostille in Chicago or anywhere else in the state, the process can be confusing—but One Source Process is here to help.
An apostille is a certification issued by the Illinois Secretary of State confirming that a document is legitimate for use in countries that are part of the Hague Convention. Documents not covered by the Hague Convention require embassy or consulate legalization instead.
Getting an Apostille in Illinois: Step-by-Step Instructions
Getting an Illinois apostille involves several critical steps:
- Identify your document type:
- State-issued: birth certificates, marriage certificates, corporate records, etc.
- Federal-issued: FBI background checks, passport info, Social Security documents.
- State-issued: birth certificates, marriage certificates, corporate records, etc.
- Fill out the Illinois Apostille Request Form:
This form ensures your paperwork is processed by the right office.
- Mail your documents:
Send your originals or certified copies using a tracked courier like FedEx or DHL.
- Let One Source Process handle the rest:
We’ll work directly with the Illinois Secretary of State Apostille office or the U.S. Department of State as needed.