Rush Apostille Processing in Miami
Rush apostille availability depends on your document type, issuing authority, and whether the document is ready for authentication. State and federal documents follow separate processing tracks with different timelines. Submit your document for review or call to confirm what is available for your situation.
Check today's apostille availability
Submit documents for reviewState Apostille vs. Federal Apostille — Two Separate Tracks
Understanding which track your document falls into is the first step in planning a rush request. The two tracks have different authorities, different timelines, and different preparation requirements.
Florida State Documents
Authenticated by the Florida Secretary of State. Rush and same-day options may be available for eligible documents submitted before the daily cutoff.
- Birth, marriage, death certificates
- Notarized documents
- Florida court documents
- Florida corporate documents
Federal Documents
Authenticated by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. Separate timeline from state processing. Not eligible for same-day state-level service.
- FBI background check reports
- Federal court documents
- Documents issued by federal agencies
- IRS tax transcripts and certifications
For FBI background check reports, see our FBI Apostille Miami page for details on the federal processing track and how to order.
Common Document Barriers That Delay Rush Requests
Most rush apostille delays are caused by document preparation issues that could have been identified before submission. Resolving these before you submit is the most effective way to avoid losing time on a tight deadline.
Photocopy instead of original or certified copy
Apostille authentication requires the original document or a certified copy issued by the originating authority. A photocopy — even a notarized photocopy — is not accepted for most document types.
Missing or incomplete notarization
Personal documents, affidavits, and copies of diplomas typically require notarization before apostille. If the notarization is missing, incomplete, or the notary's commission has expired, the document cannot proceed.
Incorrect certified record format for vital records
Some destination countries require specific certified record formats for birth, marriage, and death certificates. A standard certified copy may not be sufficient. Confirm the destination country's requirements before ordering your certified copy.
Out-of-state document without confirming the state's process
Each state has its own authentication authority and process. Submitting an out-of-state document without confirming the correct process first can result in rejection and lost time.
Not knowing the destination country's requirements
Destination countries may have specific requirements for document format, translation, or additional authentication steps beyond the apostille. Confirming these requirements before submission prevents last-minute surprises.
Tight Deadline? Contact Us Before Submitting
If you have a tight deadline, call or WhatsApp before submitting. Our team can confirm whether rush processing is available for your document type, identify any preparation issues, and advise on the fastest realistic option. Walk-ins are welcome at both Miami offices Monday through Friday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Note: the W. Flagler Street office is by appointment only on Wednesdays — walk-ins are not accepted there on that day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between rush apostille for state documents and federal documents?
State documents — such as Florida birth certificates, marriage certificates, and notarized documents — are authenticated by the Florida Secretary of State. Rush options may be available for eligible Florida documents when the document is ready and submitted before the daily cutoff. Federal documents — including FBI background check reports and documents issued by federal agencies — require apostille processing through the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. Federal processing has its own timeline and is not eligible for same day state-level service. The two tracks are entirely separate.
What document barriers cause rush apostille requests to fail or be delayed?
Common barriers include: submitting a photocopy instead of an original or certified copy; missing or incomplete notarization; a notary signature that does not match the issuing state's records; an expired or damaged document; incorrect certified record format for vital records; and not knowing the destination country's specific requirements in advance. Identifying and resolving these issues before submission is the most effective way to avoid delays.
Can I get a rush apostille for a document from another state?
Yes. We handle apostille processing for documents from all 50 states. Out-of-state documents must be authenticated by the issuing state's designated authority, which adds time compared to Florida documents. The timeline depends on the state and the document type. Submit your document for review and we will confirm the process and realistic timeline for your specific state.
Does my document need to be notarized before rush apostille processing?
It depends on the document type. Vital records issued by a government agency — birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates — typically do not require notarization before apostille. Personal documents, affidavits, copies of diplomas, and corporate documents often do. Our team reviews your document and advises on any preparation steps needed before processing can begin.
How do I start a rush apostille request?
Call or WhatsApp us to confirm availability for your document type and deadline. You can also submit your document for review using the form below — our team will review it and contact you with available options. No payment is collected until you approve the route and pricing.
Private company — not a government agency
Miami Dade Apostille is a private apostille expediting company. We are not the Florida Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State, or any government office. The apostille certificate is issued by the appropriate government authority. We coordinate the process and review your documents — we do not issue apostilles ourselves, and we do not control or guarantee government processing timelines.
Official government resources