The Ultimate Guide to Apostille Services in Miami
Miami is one of the most active apostille markets in the United States, driven by its large international population, strong ties to Latin America and Europe, and high volume of immigration and international business activity. This guide covers everything you need to know about apostille services in Miami — from what an apostille is to how to get one as efficiently as possible.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate issued by a designated government authority 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 does not certify the content of the document — only the authenticity of the official's signature. Apostille vs. notarization — full explanation.
Who Issues Apostilles in Miami?
Apostilles are not issued in Miami. The Florida Secretary of State (Tallahassee) issues apostilles on Florida-issued documents. The US Department of State (Washington, DC) issues apostilles on federal documents. Miami Dade Apostille acts as your authorized agent — submitting documents to the correct authority and returning the apostilled documents to you.
Document Types and Authorities
- Birth, marriage, death certificates: FL Secretary of State (certified copy required)
- Court records: FL Secretary of State (state courts) or US Dept of State (federal courts)
- Notarized documents (diplomas, POAs, affidavits): FL Secretary of State
- Corporate documents: FL Secretary of State
- FBI background checks: US Department of State
- Federal agency documents: US Department of State
The Process — Step by Step
- Free document review: Send a scan — we confirm authority, requirements, and cost
- Obtain certified copy if needed (vital records)
- Notarize if required (privately-issued documents)
- Submit to correct authority via Miami Dade Apostille
- Translation if destination country requires it
- Receive apostilled document — ready for use abroad
Turnaround Times
- Standard: 3–5 business days (FL Secretary of State)
- Expedited: Same-day or next-day available
- Emergency: 24-hour service — call 1-800-631-9171
- Federal documents: 6–8 weeks by mail; 1–5 days in person (US Dept of State)
Non-Hague Countries
For countries not in the Hague Convention — UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Lebanon, Jordan, Cuba — an apostille is not sufficient. Embassy legalization is required. Miami Dade Apostille handles embassy legalization for all non-Hague countries. Check your country's requirements.
Why Miami Dade Apostille?
- In business since 2008 — over 15 years of apostille experience
- Two office locations in Miami-Dade County
- Free document review before every submission
- Expedited and 24-hour emergency service
- Remote online notarization (RON) for clients worldwide
- Certified translation for all major languages
- Embassy legalization for non-Hague countries
Start your apostille request today
Send us a scan of your document for a free review. We'll handle everything from there.
Ready to move forward? Book an appointment or call us at 1-800-631-9171.