Navigating the Apostille Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The apostille process has several steps, and the correct path depends on the type of document, where it was issued, and where it will be used. This guide walks through the process from start to finish so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Identify Your Document Type

The first step is identifying whether your document is a government-issued document or a privately-issued document that requires notarization.

• Government-issued: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, court records, corporate filings, driver's license records. These go directly to apostille without notarization.
• Privately-issued (requires notarization first): Diplomas, transcripts, powers of attorney, affidavits, corporate resolutions, letters. These must be notarized before apostille.

Step 2: Obtain a Certified Copy (if needed)

For vital records (birth, marriage, death certificates), you need a certified copy issued by the relevant government agency — not a photocopy or hospital-issued certificate. If you do not have a certified copy, Miami Dade Apostille can coordinate obtaining one from the Florida Department of Health or the relevant county clerk.

Step 3: Notarize (if required)

If your document requires notarization before apostille, a Florida notary public must witness the signature and apply their seal. Miami Dade Apostille offers notarization services, including remote online notarization (RON) for clients who cannot visit our office in person.

Step 4: Identify the Correct Apostille Authority

Florida-issued documents go to the Florida Secretary of State. Federal documents (FBI background checks, federal court records, USPTO documents, federal agency certifications) go to the US Department of State. Submitting to the wrong authority results in rejection. Miami Dade Apostille's free document review identifies the correct authority before submission.

Step 5: Submit for Apostille

Miami Dade Apostille prepares the submission package and submits to the correct authority. Standard processing takes 3–5 business days at the Florida Secretary of State's office. Expedited processing (same-day or next-day) is available for urgent requests.

Step 6: Receive and Verify the Apostilled Document

The apostille is attached to or stamped on the original document. Miami Dade Apostille verifies the apostille before returning the document to you. The apostilled document is then ready for use in any Hague Convention member country.

Step 7: Translation (if required)

Many countries require documents to be in their official language. Miami Dade Apostille coordinates certified translation for all major languages. See our translation guide for details.

Ready to move forward? Book an appointment or call us at 1-800-631-9171.