Processing time for federal apostille authentication seals and signatures on federal documents so that they can be recognized in foreign countries that are members of the 1961 Hague Convention Treaty. There are currently 97 countries that require this type of authentication. Documents can be authenticated at the state level by one of the fifty Secretaries of State or at the federal level by the U.S Department of State.

When getting a federal apostille (or any US Department of State attestation or certification), it is important to know what you can expect. Processing time can vary based on the season, holidays, and the availability of staff at the agency handling the apostille. During high volume periods, like the beginning of vacation or school year, processing times may be longer.

Processing Time for Federal Apostille: What to Expect

Before you can get a federal apostille, you must have your document authenticated at the state level by a Secretary of State in one of the fifty states. This process is called legalization and is the first step in obtaining an apostille from the U.S Department of State Authentication Office in Washington DC.

The only place in the world that can issue a federal apostille or federal authentication certificate is the U.S Department of State located at 2201 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20520. The only way to get a federal apostille is through this office, by mail or in person. To request a federal apostille, you will need to complete the DS-4194 form. Be sure to complete the form correctly, as mistakes are the most common reason for rejected applications.