An Apostille, ( a-pos-TEE, French for certification),is a certificate that authenticates the signature of a document. Apostilles are issued by the Secretary of State where the document originated. The Apostille verifies the authenticity of a public official’s signature and seal. Depending on the country of destination, a document that is intended for international use may need either an Apostille or Legalization. Without these certifications, your document may not be recongnized in a foreign country. In 1961  various countries entered into the Hague Convention. * If the country of destination is not a member of the 1961 Hague Convention, Embassy Legalization must be obtained. * If the country of destination is a part of the 1961 Hague Convention, it will need to be notarized and then Apostilled by the Secretary of State.