Step-by-Step Apostille Guide – 2025

Step 1 – Check if Your Country is in the Hague Apostille Convention

• Visit the official Hague Conference list of member countries.
• If your country is not on the list, you will need superlegalization instead (see our Document Legalization Guide).

Step 2 – Identify the Competent Authority in Your Country

Each country designates specific offices to issue apostilles:

• USA: Secretary of State for the issuing state
• UK: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
• Canada: No apostille (requires superlegalization)
• Australia: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Tip: In federal countries, the issuing state or province handles it — not the national government.

Step 3 – Prepare the Original Document

• Obtain the original or a certified copy from the issuing authority.
• Make sure names, dates, and seals are correct — errors will delay the process.
• If the document is old or damaged, request a new official copy.

Step 4 – Apply for the Apostille

• Complete the required application form (online or paper).
• Pay the apostille fee (varies by country).
• Submit in person or by mail — some countries require in-person applications.

Step 5 – Receive the Apostille

The apostille will be:

• A separate certificate attached to your document, or
• A stamp/seal on the document itself.

Keep the apostille and original bound together — do not separate them.

Step 6 – Certified Czech Translation

Once you have the apostille:

1. Bring the bound document + apostille to a court-appointed Czech translator.
2. The translator will produce a certified Czech translation.
3. Submit this translated set to the Czech authorities.