Apostille Certificate From The California Secretary Of State
An original or certified copy dated within the last five years is required. A certified copy of your articles and a California Apostille cannot be requested at the same time. It can be ordered by mail or in person, but we recommend mailing. Normal processing takes up to 2 weeks, plus additional time for mailing, and costs $20. Always provide the name of the country needing a California Apostille.
You Can Order
By Mail: Provide the original or certified copy of the document, country name needing the California Apostille, specific request, payment for fees and a daytime phone number for any questions on your request cover letter.
In Person: A California Apostille Document requested in person take priority over mailed requests, are served on a first come first served basis, and are charged an additional handling fee of $6. You must provide an original or certified copy of the document.
Do You Need to Order a Certified Copy at the Same Time or Does the Fee Include a Certified Copy?
Because a California certified copy is processed through a different department, they cannot be ordered at the same time. This fee does not include a certified copy.
How Much Does It Cost To Obtain a California State Apostille?
$20 per document. $26 for in person orders.
Is Expedited Processing Available?
No. However, in person requests take priority over mailed requests.
Payment Options?
Check, Money Order, Visa or MasterCard. Make check or money order payable to: Secretary of State.
How Long Does It Take To Get an Apostille California Certification Certificate From California Secretary of State?
In Person: first come first served basis. Normal processing: 2 business weeks, plus additional time for mailing.
How Will the California Apostille Certificate Come Back After I Order From the California Secretary of State?
It will be mailed by regular mail, unless you request otherwise and provide a pre-addressed prepaid envelope or Fed Ex airbill. Return service by fax or email is not available.
Contact Info:
California Secretary of State
Notary Public Section/Authentications
1500 11th Street, 2nd Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
or
PO Box 942877
Sacramento, CA 94277
(916)-657-5448
Are You a Non-U.S. Citizen Registering Your International Business in the United States?
The Beneficial Ownership Report (or BOI Report) is a required filing for non-U.S. companies formed outside the U.S. and registered to do business in the U.S. by a non-U.S. citizen. The deadline for existing non-U.S. foreign businesses to file the BOI Report is April 25, 2025. Businesses registered after March 26, 2025 have 30 days from their U.S. registration date to file their Reports.