Palm & Seal’s Apostille Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Imagine you're on the brink of completing a crucial international business deal, or perhaps you're preparing for a life-changing move overseas. The clock is ticking, and you suddenly realize that your essential U.S. documents lack an apostille, potentially delaying or even jeopardizing your plans. The anxiety of missing deadlines or risking non-compliance with foreign legal requirements can be daunting. Fortunately, Palm & Seal makes the process of obtaining an apostille easy and quick. We take care of every detail, whether your paperwork is personal, legal, business, or academic. Our mobile and concierge notary services come to you anywhere in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, or nearby areas.
This guide explains what an apostille is, when you need one, the step-by-step process, and how Palm & Seal can help you get your documents ready for international use.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is an official certificate that validates the authenticity of a public document's signature and seal. Think of it as a global stamp of approval, ensuring your document is accepted abroad, specifically in countries participating in the Hague Apostille Convention.
An apostille acts like a stamp of international approval. It proves your document is genuine and will be accepted in other countries.
When Do You Need an Apostille?
You’ll typically need an apostille when using U.S. documents in another country for personal, legal, or business matters. Some of the most common examples include:
Personal Documents
Birth certificates
Marriage licenses
Divorce decrees
Death certificates
Adoption paperwork
Travel consent letters for minors
Legal and Business Documents
Powers of attorney
Affidavits
Certified copies of passports or IDs
Articles of incorporation or organization
Certificates of good standing
Corporate resolutions
Academic Records
Diplomas
Transcripts
Degrees
Letters of enrollment or attendance
Background Checks
FBI background reports
State or local police clearance letters
If you’re unsure whether your document needs an apostille, Palm & Seal can review it and guide you through the next steps. We ensure your documents meet the requirements for international use.
Apostille vs. Authentication: What’s the Difference?
An apostille is used for countries that are part of the Hague Convention. If your destination country is not a member, your documents will need a different type of legalization. This may involve additional steps at the state, federal, and consulate levels.
Palm & Seal will help you figure out exactly what your document needs for your destination country. This way, you avoid confusion, save time, and don’t pay extra fees.
Types of Apostille-Eligible Notarizations
Not all notarizations are the same. Common types include:
Acknowledgments – Confirms that you signed the document willingly.
Jurats – Requires you to swear or affirm that the information in the document is true.
Certified True Copies – Confirms that a copy of an original document is complete and accurate.
Palm & Seal can explain the differences, but the type of notarization needed is determined by the organization or person requesting it.
The Apostille Process: Step by Step
Palm & Seal handles the entire apostille process for you. From the moment you hand over your documents, you're free to focus on what truly matters. With our concierge service, your documents are handled quickly and accurately, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Step 1: Document Evaluation
We begin by reviewing your documents to make sure they qualify for an apostille. Some documents may need to be:
Notarized first
Certified by a county or state official
Reissued as an original certified copy
We guide you through any additional steps, if needed, so your documents are fully compliant.
Step 2: Notarization (If Required)
If your document needs notarization, we meet you wherever it’s convenient. This can be:
At your home
At your office
At Fort Lauderdale Airport or Port Everglades
Curbside or on location anywhere in Broward County
We keep things quick and easy, making sure your document is signed and sealed the right way.
Step 3: Submission for Apostille
Once notarized, we prepare and submit your documents to the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations in Tallahassee, or to another relevant government agency.
We offer:
Standard processing
Expedited options (subject to agency timelines and additional fees)
We keep you informed, so you always know what’s happening and when your documents will be ready.
Step 4: Delivery or Return
After the apostille is certified, we return your documents in the way that works best for you:
In person
Via courier
Mailed directly to the country of destination
We make sure your documents get to you or your recipient safely and on time.
Turnaround Time
Typical processing times for apostilles are:
Standard: 21-30 business days (for state apostilles), 45-60 business days (for Federal apostilles)
Expedited: 5-7 business days (when available for state apostilles), 10-14 business days (for Federal apostilles)
We set clear expectations and keep you updated, so you always know where your documents are.
What You’ll Need to Provide
Before we start, have the following ready:
The original document(s)
A valid ID (if notarization is required)
The country where the document will be used
Any mailing or return preferences
Payment (depends on the number of documents and urgency)
Palm & Seal guides you through every step to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Why Choose Palm & Seal for Apostilles
People choose Palm & Seal because we offer convenience, professionalism, and personal attention. Here’s what makes us different:
White-glove service from start to finish, ensuring you feel valued and stress-free throughout the entire process.
24/7 availability for emergencies and rush requests, giving you peace of mind knowing help is always at hand.
Mobile notary support is available throughout Fort Lauderdale, including FLL Airport and Port Everglades, so you can manage your time effectively and maintain control of your schedule.
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees, so you can proceed with confidence and trust in our services.
Real-time updates and a personal point of contact, which means you always stay informed and reassured.
No matter if you’re adopting internationally, starting a business abroad, or planning a wedding overseas, we make the paperwork simple, leaving you confident and prepared for your international ventures.
Mobile and Remote Options
We know life is busy. That's why Palm & Seal offers:
Mobile notary services – We come to you at your home, office, airport, cruise terminal, or even your boat. For example, we met Maria at Fort Lauderdale Airport, between her connecting flights to Europe, to notarize her essential travel documents without delay.
Remote online notarization – Get documents notarized securely from anywhere in the U.S. or globally. All you need is a computer or mobile device with a camera and an internet connection.
These options help you save time and avoid stress, making apostille services easy for busy people and businesses.
Tips for a Smooth Apostille Experience
To make your apostille process quick and simple:
Review your documents carefully before submitting.
Keep your ID handy and valid.
Confirm notarization or witness requirements in advance.
Decide how you want your documents returned.
Ask questions early to avoid surprises.
If you follow these tips, your documents will be processed smoothly and without delays.
Common Questions About Apostilles
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. While some offices accept walk-ins, mobile and concierge apostille services require appointments to coordinate travel and timing.
Can Palm & Seal handle legal or business documents?
Yes. We regularly handle corporate documents, powers of attorney, affidavits, and other legal paperwork for international use.
How long does an apostille take?
Most documents take 21-30 business days, depending on the processing method. Complex documents may take longer.
What if I need an apostille quickly?
We offer rush options and can often get documents processed in as few as 5-7 business days, depending on agency availability.
Bottom Line
Getting an apostille can be simple. With Palm & Seal, you get clear help, fast service, and mobile convenience. We handle everything from notarization to certified apostille, making sure your documents are valid and ready for use abroad.
Whether you’re sending personal, business, or school documents overseas, Palm & Seal brings experience, reliability, and care to every step.
Ready to Get Started?
Let Palm & Seal handle your apostille needs without the stress. We offer mobile, online, and concierge notary services in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, and across the country.
Blog articles are for educational and informational purposes only. Palm & Seal is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Always consult a licensed professional regarding your individual situation.