Everything You Need to Know About Apostille in Miami
If you live in Miami and need to use a US document abroad — or a foreign document in the US — you have likely encountered the word "apostille." This guide covers everything you need to know, from the basics to the details that trip people up.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the signature and seal of a public official on a document, making it legally recognized in all 125+ countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. It is issued by a designated government authority — in Florida, the Secretary of State. Why documents need apostilles — full explanation.
Which Documents Need an Apostille?
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Divorce decrees and court orders
- Notarized documents (diplomas, powers of attorney, affidavits)
- Corporate documents (certificates of good standing, articles of incorporation)
- FBI background checks
- Educational transcripts and diplomas
Full list of documents that require apostilles.
Who Issues Apostilles in Florida?
The Florida Secretary of State (Tallahassee) issues apostilles on Florida-issued documents. The US Department of State (Washington, DC) issues apostilles on federal documents. Apostilles are not issued in Miami-Dade County. Where to get an apostille in Miami-Dade — full guide.
How Long Does It Take?
- Standard: 3–5 business days (Florida documents)
- Expedited: Same day or next day available
- Emergency: 24-hour service by request
- Federal documents: 6–8 weeks by mail; 1–5 days in person
Full turnaround time breakdown.
What About Non-Hague Countries?
For countries not in the Hague Convention — UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Lebanon, Jordan, Cuba — an apostille is not accepted. Embassy legalization is required instead. Miami Dade Apostille handles embassy legalization for all non-Hague countries. Check your country's requirements.
Do You Need a Translation?
If your apostilled document will be used in a non-English-speaking country, a certified translation is typically required. Miami Dade Apostille coordinates certified translation for all major languages as part of the apostille package. Certified translation guide.
How Miami Dade Apostille Works
- Send us a scan of your document — free review, no obligation
- We confirm the correct authority, requirements, and cost
- We prepare and submit your document to the correct authority
- We coordinate translation if needed
- We return the apostilled (and translated) document to you
Start your apostille request today
Send us a scan of your document for a free review. We handle everything from there.
Ready to move forward? Book an appointment or call us at 1-800-631-9171.