Can you notarize documents in languages other than English?

Yes. The document itself may be in any language, provided the notarial certificate is in English and the signer can communicate directly with the notary in English or through a qualified translator present at the signing. The notary does not translate or interpret the document’s contents.

How long does the apostille process take?

Standard processing through Ohio Secretary of State takes 2-3 weeks. Expedited service is available for urgent requests.

Which countries accept apostilles?

Apostilles are recognized by all countries that signed the Hague Convention, which includes most countries worldwide except a few like China and UAE.

Can you apostille documents from other states?

Documents must be apostilled by the state where they were issued. We can handle Ohio documents and coordinate with other states as needed.

What's the difference between an apostille and embassy legalization?

Apostilles are for Hague Convention countries and are obtained from the Secretary of State. Non-Hague countries require embassy or consulate legalization, which is a separate, often longer process.

Can I get an apostille the same day?

Ohio Secretary of State offers walk-in service in Columbus for same-day apostilles. We can coordinate expedited processing or in-person submissions for urgent needs.

Do I need to notarize a document before getting an apostille?

It depends on the document type. Personal documents like affidavits need notarization first. Certified vital records (birth, marriage) from official sources typically don't need additional notarization.

Can certified copies be apostilled?

Yes, you should always use certified copies rather than originals. Ohio vital records offices provide certified copies specifically for apostille purposes.

How do I apostille an FBI background check?

FBI background checks require federal apostille from the U.S. State Department in Washington D.C., not the Ohio Secretary of State. This process takes 4-8 weeks or can be expedited.

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Apostille Services

Document authentication and apostille services for international use and travel.

Quick Answer

How do I get an Ohio document apostilled?

An Ohio document is notarized (if required), then sent to the Ohio Secretary of State, which issues the apostille for use in Hague Convention countries. Signed On Time notarizes the document at your location and explains the submission steps. Call (513) 226-9052 for a free consultation.

Need a document authenticated for use in another country? We prepare and notarize Ohio apostille documents. Call for a free consultation.

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Complete Apostille Services

Complete apostille and document authentication services for international use including birth certificates, marriage licenses, educational documents, and business records.

What We Notarize

Birth certificate apostilles
Marriage certificate authentication
Educational document certification
Business document apostilles
Criminal background check certification
Medical document authentication

Does an apostille require a notary first?

Most private documents (powers of attorney, affidavits, and similar) need to be notarized before they can receive an apostille; state-issued documents like birth certificates usually don't. We handle the notarization step, then the document is submitted to the Ohio Secretary of State for the apostille itself. Standard processing runs 5–7 business days, with rush options available through the Secretary of State.

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Quick Tips

Get Certified Copies

Always apostille certified copies, never original documents

Check Requirements

Verify destination country's specific apostille requirements

Plan Ahead

Allow 3-4 weeks for complete apostille processing

Apostille Process

Document Review

Verify documents are eligible for apostille certification

Notarization

Notarize documents that require notarial certification

State Submission

Submit to Ohio Secretary of State for apostille

Return Delivery

Secure return of apostilled documents to you

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Same-day mobile notary service available throughout Southwest Ohio. Terry comes to your location.

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How the Ohio Apostille Process Works

Need documents authenticated for international use? Our guide explains when you need a notary first, how to submit to the Ohio Secretary of State, and typical timelines.

Read the Apostille Process Guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about apostille services

All Documents We Notarize for Apostille Services

259+ document types across 12 categories. Professional notarization with same-day mobile service.

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Most requested documents this season in your area

Simple WillAnnual estate review

Healthcare Power of AttorneyHoliday family discussions

Living WillYear-end estate planning

Beneficiary Change FormsAnnual benefit enrollment

Deployment POAPre-deployment preparation

VA Benefits ApplicationBenefits enrollment periods

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We notarize virtually any legal document. Contact us to discuss your specific needs or book an appointment and bring your documents.

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What Apostille Services Clients Say

Real reviews from clients who used our apostille services services

Durgha Rajamanickam

Dayton, Montgomer County

"Terry was very helpful and flexible with us during closing. He was very patient and gave great explanation on the closing documents. We had a wonderful experience."

Jun Les

Montgomery County

"I recently worked with Terry May for notary services in Montgomery County Ohio, and was extremely pleased with his professionalism and efficiency. He handled the apostille process for an international document flawlessly."

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