When submitting documents to a foreign embassy or consulate, it is important to understand all of the requirements for your process. Each embassy or consulate can have its own rules, and that applies to consulates of the same country in different states. In other words, the Consulate General of Spain in Miami may have different rules than the Consulate General of Spain in Boston. Most consulates require apostilles, and a common question is whether or not certified copies can replace the apostille. In today’s article, we will discuss the difference between a certified copy and an apostille.
Certified copies may be obtained for documents such as birth certificates and marriage certificates. It is a verified duplicate of the original, and in many instances, can be used as a substitute for the original. Certified copies ensure the document is an accurate and exact copy of the original.
In contrast to a certified copy, an apostille is a document that is issued in addition to the original document, and not a replacement of same. An apostille certifies the authenticity of the signature, seal and position of the official who has executed, issued or certified a public document. An apostille also serves to enable a public document in one document to be recognized in another country, provided both countries are part of the 1961 Hague Convention.
When submitting documents to a foreign consulate or embassy, typically, an apostille is required to authenticate public documents. A certified copy may be used to apply for an apostille, but it cannot replace the apostille.
For any questions regarding certified copies or apostilles, please contact us at info@cshtranslation.com.