Introduction
An apostille is one of the most important documents you may ever need, yet many people don’t understand what it is, why they need it, or how to get one. Whether you’re applying for a visa, starting a business abroad, or handling an estate, an apostille authenticates your documents for use in foreign countries.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about apostille services in San Diego County—from the basics to the specific types of apostilles you might need, turnaround times, pricing, and how to get started.
Quick Facts About Apostilles:
- An apostille is a certification that authenticates the origin of a public document
- It’s required for documents to be recognized in countries that are signatories to the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention
- Without an apostille, your documents may be rejected by foreign governments, schools, employers, and legal institutions
- Processing times range from same-day to 7 business days, depending on your needs
- Costs vary based on document type and turnaround time
What Is an Apostille? Understanding the Basics
Definition and Purpose
An apostille is an official certification issued by a government authority that authenticates the origin of a public document. The word “apostille” comes from the French word meaning “certification” or “attestation.”
When you get an apostille, a government official (usually the Secretary of State) verifies that:
- The document is genuine
- The signature on the document is authentic
- The seal or stamp on the document is legitimate
- The person who signed the document had the authority to do so
Why You Need an Apostille
Apostilles are required when you need to use a U.S. document in a foreign country. Common reasons include:
Immigration & Visa Applications
- Student visas for universities abroad
- Work visas for international employment
- Spousal visas for marriage to a foreign national
- Residency permits in other countries
Business & Corporate Documents
- Articles of incorporation for foreign subsidiaries
- Power of attorney documents for international business
- Corporate resolutions for overseas transactions
- Business licenses for international operations
Legal & Estate Matters
- Power of attorney documents for managing affairs abroad
- Healthcare directives for use in other countries
- Adoption documents for international adoptions
- Divorce decrees for remarriage abroad
- Wills and estate documents for inheritance in other countries
Education & Professional Credentials
- Diplomas and transcripts for foreign universities
- Professional licenses for practice abroad
- Certifications for international employment
- Academic records for scholarship applications
Personal & Vital Records
- Birth certificates for passport applications
- Marriage certificates for visa applications
- Divorce decrees for remarriage abroad
- Death certificates for inheritance claims
Countries That Require Apostilles
The apostille system is governed by the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention. Over 140 countries are signatories to this convention, including:
Popular Destinations:
- United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy
- Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand
- Japan, South Korea, Singapore
- UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel
- Most European and Latin American countries
If you’re moving to or conducting business in any of these countries, you’ll likely need apostilles for your documents.
Types of Apostilles We Offer
Birth Certificate Apostilles
What It Is: An official certification of your birth certificate for use abroad.
Common Uses:
- Passport applications
- Visa applications
- Marriage abroad
- Adoption proceedings
- Name change documentation
Processing Times:
- Standard: 7 business days
- Rush: 2-3 business days
- Same-Day: Available (call for availability)
Cost: Starting at $175 (standard), $365 (rush), $665 (same-day)
Learn more about birth certificate apostilles →
Marriage Certificate Apostilles
What It Is: An official certification of your marriage certificate for international recognition.
Common Uses:
- Visa applications for spouse
- Remarriage in another country
- Spousal immigration
- Legal name change documentation
- International adoption
Processing Times:
- Standard: 3 business days
- Rush: 1-2 business days
- Same-Day: Available
Cost: Starting at $175 (standard), $365 (rush), $665 (same-day)
Learn more about marriage certificate apostilles →
Divorce Decree Apostilles
What It Is: An official certification of your divorce decree for use in foreign countries.
Common Uses:
- Remarriage abroad
- Spousal visa applications
- International custody arrangements
- Legal documentation in another country
Processing Times:
- Standard: 3 business days
- Rush: 1-2 business days
- Same-Day: Available
Cost: Starting at $175 (standard), $365 (rush), $665 (same-day)
Learn more about divorce decree apostilles →
Corporate Apostille Services
What It Is: Official certification of business documents for international operations.
Common Uses:
- Articles of incorporation for foreign subsidiaries
- Corporate resolutions for overseas transactions
- Power of attorney for international business
- Business licenses for foreign operations
- Certificate of good standing
Processing Times:
- Standard: 3 business days
- Rush: 1-2 business days
- Same-Day: Available for urgent business needs
Cost: Starting at $185 (standard), $385 (rush), $685 (same-day)
Learn more about corporate apostille services →
FBI Background Check Apostilles
What It Is: Official certification of FBI background check documents for international use.
Common Uses:
- International employment requirements
- Visa applications requiring background clearance
- Adoption proceedings (domestic and international)
- Professional licensing abroad
- Immigration to countries requiring background checks
Processing Times:
- Standard: 3 business days
- Rush: 1-2 business days
- Same-Day: Available
Cost: Starting at $275
Learn more about FBI background check apostilles →
Power of Attorney Apostilles
What It Is: Official certification of power of attorney documents for use abroad.
Common Uses:
- Managing property or finances in another country
- Healthcare decisions for family members abroad
- Business transactions in foreign countries
- Estate management internationally
Processing Times:
- Standard: 3 business days
- Rush: 1-2 business days
- Same-Day: Available
Cost: Starting at $175 (standard), $365 (rush), $665 (same-day)
Learn more about power of attorney apostilles →
Diploma & Education Apostilles
What It Is: Official certification of educational documents for international recognition.
Common Uses:
- University applications abroad
- Professional licensing in other countries
- Scholarship applications
- Work visa requirements
- Credential evaluation services
Processing Times:
- Standard: 3 business days
- Rush: 1-2 business days
- Same-Day: Available
Cost: Starting at $175 (standard), $365 (rush), $665 (same-day)
Learn more about education apostilles →
Apostille Turnaround Times Explained
Standard Apostille (7 Business Days)
Best For: Non-urgent applications with flexible timelines
What to Expect:
- Documents submitted Monday-Friday
- Processing begins
- Completed by the six business day
- Perfect for visa applications with 4+ week timelines
- Most cost-effective option
Cost: $175 per document
Rush Apostille (2-3 Business Days)
Best For: Time-sensitive applications (2-4 week deadlines)
What to Expect:
- Priority processing
- Completed within 2-3 business days
- Ideal for visa deadlines or urgent business needs
- Still affordable compared to same-day
Cost: $365 per document
Same-Day Apostille
Best For: Urgent deadlines (less than 48 hours)
What to Expect:
- Fastest turnaround available
- Completed same business day (if submitted before 2 PM)
- Perfect for last-minute visa applications
- Emergency business transactions
Cost: $665 per document
Note: Same-day availability depends on document type and current volume. Call us at [phone number] to confirm availability before submitting.
Mail-In Apostille Services
How Our Mail-In Service Works
Can’t visit in person? No problem. We offer convenient mail-in apostille services for customers throughout California and nationwide.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Gather original or certified copies of documents
- Include a cover letter with your contact information
- Specify which apostille service you need (standard, rush, or same-day)
Step 2: Mail Your Documents
- Send via FedEx, UPS, or certified mail
- Include prepaid return shipping label (we provide)
- Documents arrive at our office for processing
Step 3: We Process Your Apostille
- Verify document authenticity
- Obtain official apostille certification
- Prepare documents for return
Step 4: Receive Your Apostille
- Documents shipped back via FedEx
- Tracking number provided
- Typically 5-7 business days total (including shipping)
Cost: Standard mail-in service $185 (includes return shipping)
Learn more about mail-in apostille services →
Apostille Pricing Guide
Standard Pricing by Document Type
| Document Type | Standard (7 days) | Rush (2-3 days) | Same-Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | $165 | $365 | $665 |
| Marriage Certificate | $165 | $365 | $665 |
| Divorce Decree | $165 | $365 | $665 |
| Power of Attorney | $175 | $365 | $665 |
| FBI Background Check | $275 (14 days) | NA | NA |
| Corporate Documents | $185 | $385 | $685 |
| Education/Diploma | $175 | $365 | $665 |
| Mail-In Service | $185 | $385 | NA |
What’s Included in Our Pricing
✓ Document authentication and verification ✓ Official apostille certification ✓ Professional handling and storage ✓ Secure return of documents ✓ Free consultation on apostille requirements
No Hidden Fees
We believe in transparent pricing. What you see is what you pay. No additional charges for:
- Document pickup or delivery
- Expedited processing
- Multiple documents (per-document pricing applies)
- Consultation or advice
Service Areas in San Diego County
We proudly serve all of San Diego County, including:
Central San Diego:
- Downtown San Diego
- Midtown
- Hillcrest
- Normal Heights
North County:
- La Jolla
- Del Mar
- Rancho Santa Fe
- Carmel Valley
- Solana Beach
- Encinitas
East County:
- El Cajon
- Santee
- Ramona
- Julian
South County:
- Chula Vista
- National City
- Coronado
- Imperial Beach
Specialty Locations:
- Hospitals and medical facilities
- Senior living communities
- Nursing homes
- Corporate offices
- Legal offices
View our complete service areas →
How to Get an Apostille: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Determine What Documents You Need
Before contacting us, identify which documents need apostilles:
- Do you need birth, marriage, or divorce certificates?
- Do you need corporate or business documents?
- Do you need educational credentials?
- How many documents total?
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
- Original documents OR certified copies
- Government-issued ID for verification
- Clear copies of documents (if originals aren’t available)
Important: We cannot apostille documents that are:
- Not notarized if document requires notary
- A photocopy of a vital record
Step 3: Choose Your Service Option
In-Person Service:
- Visit our office in San Diego
- Same-day or rush service available
- Fastest turnaround for urgent needs
Mail-In Service:
- Send documents via FedEx or certified mail
- 5-7 business days total (including shipping)
- Convenient for out-of-state customers
Mobile Service:
- We come to you (hospitals, senior living, offices)
- Available for high-volume orders
- Perfect for corporate clients
Step 4: Submit Your Request
Online: Link to online booking form Phone: 858-224-2519 Email: lajollamobilenotary@gmail.com In Person: 888 Prospect Street ste 200 La Jolla CA 92037
Step 5: We Process Your Apostille
- Verify document authenticity
- Obtain official apostille certification from Secretary of State
- Prepare documents for delivery
Step 6: Receive Your Apostille
- Documents delivered or shipped based on your selection
- Tracking information provided
- Ready to use internationally
Frequently Asked Questions About Apostilles
What’s the difference between an apostille and notarization?
Notarization is a local certification by a notary public that verifies a signature. Apostille is a government certification that authenticates the origin of a public document for international use. You cannot use a notarization abroad—you need an apostille.
How long is an apostille valid?
Apostilles do not expire. Once issued, they remain valid indefinitely. However, some countries may have specific requirements about document age (e.g., documents must be less than 6 months old).
Can I get an apostille for a document in another language?
We can apostille documents in other languages, but the document itself must be authentic. So long as the signer can communicate with the notary we can notarize in any language.
Do I need the original document to get an apostille?
For vital records such as birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate, court documents, FBI report, sherif report must be original. Example of documents that don’t need to be original are transcripts, diploma, social security benefits, passport, driver license.
How much does an apostille cost?
Standard apostilles start at $175. Rush service is $365, and same-day is $665. Corporate documents may have different pricing.
What if I need multiple apostilles?
Second document and more is $100 per apostille
Can you apostille documents from other states?
Yes. We can apostille documents from any U.S. state. Processing times may vary depending on the state’s Secretary of State office.
What countries accept apostilles?
Over 140 countries accept apostilles, including all major English-speaking countries and most European, Asian, and Latin American nations. If you’re unsure, we can verify for your specific country.
How do I know if I need an apostille?
If you’re using a U.S. document in a foreign country, you likely need an apostille. Contact the foreign government agency, embassy, or institution where you’re submitting the document to confirm. They usually will tell you it needs to be authenticated, legalized or apostille.
Can you help me understand which documents I need?
Yes. We offer free consultations to help you determine which documents need apostilles. Call us or email us
Why Choose Our Apostille Services
10+ Years of Experience
We’ve been serving San Diego County since 2015, helping hundreds of clients navigate the apostille process with confidence and ease.
Fast, Reliable Service
- Same-day apostilles available
- Rush service (2-3 business days)
- Standard service (7 business days)
- 100% accuracy guarantee
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. You know exactly what you’ll pay before we process your documents.
Convenient Options
- In-person service at our office
- Mail-in service nationwide
- Mobile service for hospitals, senior living, and corporate offices
- Online request forms for easy submission
Professional Team
Our staff is trained, certified, and experienced in handling sensitive documents. We treat your documents with the utmost care and confidentiality.
Free Consultations
Not sure if you need an apostille? Unsure which documents to submit? We offer free consultations to answer your questions.
Comprehensive Services
Beyond apostilles, we also offer:
Related Services We Offer
Mobile Notary Services
Need documents notarized? We offer mobile notary services throughout San Diego County. Whether you need a simple notarization or complex loan signing, our certified notaries are ready to help.
Learn more about mobile notary services →
Legal Document Assistant (LDA) Services
We help with document preparation for:
- Estate planning
- Power of attorney documents
- Healthcare directives
- Living wills
- Other legal documents
All at affordable rates, without the attorney price tag.
Learn more about LDA services →
Loan Signing Agent Services
Buying or refinancing a home? Our certified loan signing agents handle all your document signing needs with professionalism and attention to detail.
Learn more about loan signing services →
Getting Started: Your Next Steps
Ready to get your apostille? Here’s how to get started:
Option 1: Request Online
Fill out our online form with your document details, and we’ll contact you within 24 hours. Request Apostille Online →
Option 2: Call Us
Speak directly with our team to discuss your needs and get immediate answers. Phone: [Phone number] Hours:[Business hours]
Option 3: Visit In Person
Stop by our office (make an appointment) to submit documents and discuss your apostille needs. Address: 888 Prospect Street STE 200 La Jolla CA 92037
Option 4: Mail Your Documents
Send documents via FedEx or certified mail with our prepaid return shipping. Mailing Address: 888 Prospect Street Ste 200 La Jolla CA 92037
Conclusion
An apostille is a critical document for anyone using U.S. documents abroad. Whether you’re applying for a visa, starting a business internationally, or handling an estate, we’re here to make the process simple, fast, and affordable.
With 10+ years of experience, transparent pricing, and multiple service options, we’re San Diego County’s trusted apostille provider.
Don’t let apostille delays hold up your plans. Contact us today for a free consultation and get started on your apostille request.
Contact Information
La Jolla Mobile Notary & Apostille Services 📍888 Prospect Street Ste 200 La Jolla CA 92037 📞858-224-2519 📧 lajollamobilenotary@gmail.com 🌐 www.mobilenotarylajolla.com
Service Hours: 24/7 Service Area: All of San Diego County
Free Consultation Available Not sure if you need an apostille? Call us for a free, no-obligation consultation.