How to Obtain an Apostille for Texas Documentation
An apostille is a seal certifying the authenticity of a notarized document for international use. If you live in Texas and need this document, follow these steps.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Determine for which legal documents you will need an apostille issued by the Texas Secretary of State. For explanation purposes only, we will use a Texas-issued birth certificate.
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2
Obtain a recently certified copy of a Texas Birth Certificate from the issuing County Clerk´s Office. When applying for the certified copy, state the reason on the application as ¨Apostille.¨ There is a nominal fee for this; check with the County Clerk´s Office for cost.
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3
Prepare the documentation to be mailed. Include the original copy, along with the name of the country the documentation will be presented in.
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4
Enclose the $15 statutory fee for each certificate requiring an apostille. You can send a check, money order or your credit card information. Do not send cash by mail.
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5
Remember to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope or pre-paid overnight airbill/envelope.
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6
Mail everything to: Secretary of State, Statutory Documents Section, 1019 Brazos, B-13 Austin, Texas 78701.
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7
Call (512) 463-5705 for more information or to follow up on your request.
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Tips & Warnings
If you live in the Austin, Texas area, you can walk-in to the office Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to process your request.
All Texas state documents must be recently issued to be eligible for an apostille.
