Business Document Authentication
All business documents MUST be issued by companies and firms in the six states under our jurisdiction. A public notary in that state must notarize all business documents and then send them to the Secretary of that state for "APOSTILLE" before the submission for authentication.
Authentication can be applied by the business owner or by an agent appointed by the company. Each way to fill out the application form is different. Please follow the regulations and instructions.
For all other instructions regarding authentication (such as processing time, Fees and Payment Methods, Return Envelope, etc.) please refer to the "General Instructions for Document Authentication."
For either walk-in applicants or applications via mailing:
- By the business owner:
- Application Form for Authentication: Each applicant must complete and sign the form. Applicants can submit multiple documents under one application.
- Clear copy of the passport or state-issued ID for the applicant: Color/Black and white.
- Proof of Business ownership: A copy of the document that proves the ownership of the business.
- Original business document: A public notary in that state must notarize all documents and then send them to the Secretary of that state for "APOSTILLE."
- Clear photocopy of original business document: Photocopy made after being apostilled by the Secretary of State. The photocopy must be printed double-sided in black and white.
- By an agent appointed by the company:
- Application Form for Authentication: The person in charge of the case (such as a director or manager) must complete and sign the applicant’s part as the applicant, and the agent who applies for the authentication must complete and sign the agent's part. Applicants can submit multiple documents under one application.
- Clear copies of the passports or state-issued IDs for the applicant and agent: Color/Black and white.
- The proof of the applicant’s title: The name on the proof MUST match the name on the identification.
- A letter showing the agent has been appointed: The applicant writes and signs a letter with business letterhead to the agent. It must state the agent’s identification and mission.
- Original business document: A public notary in that state must notarize all documents and then send them to the Secretary of that state for "APOSTILLE."
- Clear photocopy of original business document: Photocopy made after being apostilled by the Secretary of State. The photocopy must be printed double-sided in black and white.
Notes:
- Additional identification might be requested while the documents are reviewing.
Forms:
