The Hague Apostille

There are two types of apostille: 1. Apostille on original documents 2. Apostille on translations.
The apostille on original documents is a separate sheet that is attached to the document so that it can be used abroad. Usually, the apostille on original documents is applied at the Prefecture of the county where they were issued.
The apostille on translations is a stamp that is placed on the translation of a document for use in another country. Only translations legalized under the notary’s signature can be apostilled. Translations can be apostilled only at the Chamber of Notaries.
The text of the apostille specifies the name of the apostilled document, the signatory and the city where the apostille was applied, also having a registration number.
With the apostille applied, the document can be used abroad. The apostille is not required if the document is used in the state where the document was issued. The apostillation procedure was introduced specifically to avoid forgery of documents for those who use the documents in countries other than the country that issued them.
For example, people wishing to obtain Italian citizenship must apply the apostille to the birth certificate, the criminal record, and their translation, or as the case may be, the marriage certificate and/or the divorce certificate. Similarly, people who want to get married abroad need to have their documents apostilled.
The apostille can be placed on the original document and/or on the legalized translation. For more information, you can contact our translation office, which offers complete translation and apostille services.