Apostille Requirements in Oregon
An apostille certifies the signature on a public document so it is accepted in another country that belongs to the 1961 Hague Convention. Before we file, we check that your document meets the requirements below, so it is not rejected.
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1. The document must be an original or a certified copy
Birth, death and marriage certificates, court records and other public records must be certified copies issued by the office that keeps the record. The official who signed the copy must have their signature on file with the state. Plain photocopies and printouts cannot be apostilled.
2. It must be apostilled by the state that issued it
Oregon documents are apostilled by the Oregon Secretary of State in Salem. Documents from another state are apostilled by that state’s Secretary of State, and federal documents, such as FBI background checks, by the U.S. Department of State. We handle Oregon apostilles, Washington and other states by mail, and FBI background check apostilles.
3. Notarized documents need a complete notary certificate
Private documents, such as powers of attorney, affidavits, school records or business papers, must first be notarized with a complete notarial certificate and seal. We can notarize the document in our office or at your location before it goes for the apostille.
4. Translations, if the receiving country needs them
Many countries require a certified translation of the document or of the apostille. We offer certified apostille translation.
5. Countries outside the Hague Convention
Apostilles only work between Hague Convention countries. For other countries, documents go through authentication and embassy or consulate legalization instead.
Fees and turnaround
- Oregon documents: $195 for the first document, $20 for each additional one, usually 1 to 5 business days.
- Washington documents: by mail, about 3 weeks.
- Other states: by mail, about 10 business days.
- FBI background check with apostille: $295, including fingerprinting.
Frequently asked questions
Can any copy of my document be apostilled?
No. The document must be an original or a certified copy issued by the office that keeps the record, signed by an official whose signature is on file with the state. Plain photocopies cannot be apostilled.
Which office issues the apostille?
The Secretary of State of the state where the document was issued. Oregon documents go to the Oregon Secretary of State in Salem. Federal documents, such as FBI background checks, go to the U.S. Department of State.
How much does an Oregon apostille cost?
$195 for the first Oregon document and $20 for each additional one. Most orders are ready in 1 to 5 business days.
What if the country is not part of the Hague Convention?
Apostilles only work between Hague Convention countries. For other countries, documents need authentication and embassy or consulate legalization, which we can also handle.
Not sure your document qualifies?
Text a photo of it to 971-514-3743 or call (971) 394-4152 and we will check it before you send it. Mobile service is available anytime; office visits are before 5:00 pm. See all notary and apostille requirements.