Notarization + PA Secretary of State apostille coordination for international use
Birth Certificates • FBI Background Checks • Diplomas • Powers of Attorney • Business Documents
Serving Western PA • We explain the process clearly
An apostille is an official certification issued by the PA Secretary of State that authenticates documents for use in foreign countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Think of it as an international notarization that confirms your notarized document is legitimate and will be recognized abroad.
The apostille process has two steps: (1) I notarize your document (signature, acknowledgment, jurat, etc.), and (2) the PA Secretary of State applies an apostille certificate to my notarization, verifying that I'm a legitimate Pennsylvania notary. This allows your document to be legally accepted in over 120 countries without further authentication.
Timeline: Notarization is immediate. PA Secretary of State apostille processing typically takes 2-4 weeks (expedited options available).
We guide you through every step
Call (724) 264-8181. Tell me what document you need apostilled and which country.
I notarize your document (mobile or you come to me). Ensure it's done correctly.
I provide instructions for submitting to PA Dept of State in Harrisburg for apostille.
Once apostilled, your document is internationally recognized and ready for use abroad.
Notarization follows standard zone pricing. PA Secretary of State apostille fees are separate (paid directly to the state).
Transparent, Service-Type Pricing
Rates vary by what you need notarized and how far we travel. No hidden fees, no mileage math.
Experience with international document requirements
Apostilles can be confusing. I'll walk you through exactly what's needed for your specific country and document type.
The notarization must be done properly or the PA Secretary of State will reject it. I ensure it's right the first time.
After notarization, I provide step-by-step instructions for submitting to the PA Department of State for apostille.
Notarization is when I (a PA notary) verify your signature and identity. An apostille is when the PA Secretary of State certifies that I'm a legitimate notary, which allows the notarized document to be accepted internationally. You need both: notarization first, then apostille.
No. Apostilles are for countries that signed the Hague Apostille Convention (120+ countries including most of Europe, Latin America, Asia). For non-Hague countries (like Canada, most Middle East countries), you need "authentication" through the U.S. State Department and the foreign embassy, which is a different process.
Notarization with me is immediate (same day or next day). Once I notarize, you mail the document to the PA Department of State in Harrisburg. Standard apostille processing is 2-4 weeks. Expedited service (rush, same-day) is available for additional fees. Check the PA Dept of State website.
I provide the notarization and clear instructions for submitting to the PA Department of State. You (or an apostille service company) submit the document to Harrisburg. Some people use apostille courier services that handle the mailing and pickup for a fee. I can recommend services if needed.
Most public documents can be apostilled: notarized affidavits, powers of attorney, certified copies of birth certificates, diplomas, FBI background checks, corporate documents, etc. Some documents (like original government-issued IDs) can't be apostilled, only certified copies. I'll advise you based on your specific document and destination country.
Have more questions?
View All FAQs →Professional notarization for apostille + clear instructions for PA Secretary of State submission.
Serving Western PA • Expert guidance for international documents