Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an Apostille in Miami

The apostille process has a reputation for being confusing. It doesn't have to be. This step-by-step guide walks through exactly what happens from the moment you contact Miami Dade Apostille to the moment your apostilled document is in your hands.

Related: The mystery of apostilles — demystified

Step 1: Send a Scan for Free Review

Before mailing anything, send Miami Dade Apostille a scan or photo of your document. We review it at no charge and confirm:

• Whether the document is in the correct format for apostille
• Which authority issues the apostille (state Secretary of State or US Department of State)
• Whether notarization is required before apostille
• Whether a certified copy from the issuing agency is needed
• Whether certified translation is required for your destination country

This step prevents the most common and costly errors — submitting a document to the wrong authority, or submitting a document that will be rejected.

Step 2: Prepare the Document

Based on the review, we advise on any preparation steps needed before submission. Common preparation steps include:

• Notarization: For diplomas, powers of attorney, affidavits, and corporate documents that are not government-issued, notarization is typically required. Miami Dade Apostille can coordinate notarization, including remote online notarization.
• Certified copy: For vital records, the document must be a certified copy from the issuing county recorder or state vital records office — not a photocopy.
• No preparation needed: Many government-issued documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, court records) are ready for apostille as issued.

Step 3: Mail the Document to Miami Dade Apostille

Once the document is ready, mail it to our office. We recommend using a trackable shipping method (USPS Priority Mail, FedEx, UPS) and keeping a copy of the document for your records. Miami Dade Apostille provides our mailing address when you contact us.

Step 4: Submission to the Secretary of State

Miami Dade Apostille prepares the submission package and submits your document to the Florida Secretary of State (for Florida-issued documents) or the US Department of State (for federal documents). We track the submission and follow up as needed.

Step 5: Apostille Issued

The Secretary of State or US Department of State issues the apostille — a certificate attached to your document confirming the authenticity of the official's signature. The apostilled document is returned to Miami Dade Apostille.

Step 6: Return to You

Miami Dade Apostille sends the apostilled document to you by mail or courier, or directly to your recipient abroad if you prefer. We confirm delivery and provide the tracking number.

How Long Does It Take?

Total turnaround depends on the document type and current processing times at the Secretary of State's office. Miami Dade Apostille advises on the expected timeline at the time of your request. Rush options are available for urgent deadlines — call 1-800-631-9171 to discuss.

Ready to move forward? Book an appointment or call us directly.