How to Get an Apostille in Louisiana
A complete guide to apostille requirements, fees, processing times, and step-by-step instructions for Louisiana documents. Everything you need to know in one place.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate issued by a designated government authority that verifies the authenticity of a public document for use in another country. Under the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961, apostilles are recognized by over 120 member countries, eliminating the need for additional embassy legalization.
If you have a document issued in Louisiana that you need to use internationally — such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, diploma, or corporate filing — it will need to be apostilled by the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Key Facts About Louisiana Apostilles
- Louisiana is a Hague Convention member — apostilles are accepted in 120+ countries
- The Louisiana Secretary of State handles all apostille certifications
- Standard processing time: 5–7 business days
- State fee: $25 per document
- Expedited processing available: 2–3 business days
Step-by-Step: Getting an Apostille in Louisiana
Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Document
If you need a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or court document, obtain a certified copy from the issuing Louisiana agency. The document must bear original signatures or official seals.
Verify Document Eligibility
Not all documents can be directly apostilled. Some require notarization first. Documents must be issued or notarized in Louisiana to be processed by the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Submit to the Secretary of State
Mail or deliver your document to the Louisiana Secretary of State. Include the required fee of $25 per document and a self-addressed return envelope. Processing takes 5–7 business days.
Receive Your Apostilled Document
Once processed, the apostille certificate is attached to your document. It's now ready for international use in any Hague Convention member country.
Or Let 1Apostille Handle Everything
Skip the hassle — we handle steps 1-4 on your behalf. From Louisiana, simply submit your document to us and we manage the entire process, including expedited options.
Documents Commonly Apostilled in Louisiana
Common Apostille Mistakes to Avoid in Louisiana
Apostille FAQ — Louisiana
What is an apostille and do I need one in Louisiana?
An apostille authenticates a document for international use. If you need to use aLouisiana-issued document in another country that's part of the Hague Convention, you need an apostille from the Louisiana Secretary of State.
How much does an apostille cost in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Secretary of State charges $25 per document for apostille certification. Our service fee includes all state fees, document review, and handling.
How long does an apostille take in Louisiana?
Standard processing takes 5–7 business days. Expedited options may be available. Our service typically processes faster due to established relationships with state offices.
Can I get an apostille for a document from another state?
No. An apostille must be obtained from the state that issued the document. If you have a document from another state, it needs to be processed through that state's Secretary of State. We handle apostilles for all 50 states.
Need an Apostille in Louisiana?
Skip the research — let 1Apostille handle your Louisiana apostille from start to finish.