Hillsboro Apostille Service

Difference Between an Apostille and Certification

Purpose:

Apostille: Verifies the authenticity of documents for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Certification: Can refer to various types of document verifications or authentications, including those required for non-Hague countries or specific domestic purposes.

International Use:

Apostille: Specifically used for documents that will be used internationally in Hague Convention member countries.

Certification: May be required for documents intended for use in non-Hague countries or for specific local purposes.

Process:

Apostille: Involves a standardized process defined by the Hague Convention and is typically handled by government offices such as the Secretary of State.

Certification: Process varies depending on the type of certification needed and the requirements of the destination or specific use.

Recognition:

Apostille: Automatically recognized by all Hague Convention member countries, providing a universal standard for document verification.

Certification: Recognition depends on the specific requirements of the country or institution requesting the document.

How to Determine Which One You Need:

Apostille: If your document needs to be used internationally in a Hague Convention member country, you will likely need an Apostille.

Certification: If your document is intended for use in a non-Hague country or requires specific local authentication, you may need certification or other forms of legalization. Always check the requirements of the destination country or institution.