How to Get an Apostille in Virginia
A complete guide to apostille requirements, fees, processing times, and step-by-step instructions for Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Key Facts About Virginia Apostilles
- Virginia is a Hague Convention member — apostilles are accepted in 120+ countries
- The Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth handles all apostille certifications
- Standard processing time: 3–5 business days
- State fee: $10 per document
- Expedited processing available: Same-day to 1 business day
Step-by-Step: Getting an Apostille in Virginia
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 Virginia 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 Virginia to be processed by the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Submit to the Secretary of State
Mail or deliver your document to the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth. Include the required fee of $10 per document and a self-addressed return envelope. Processing takes 3–5 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 Virginia, simply submit your document to us and we manage the entire process, including expedited options.
Documents Commonly Apostilled in Virginia
Common Apostille Mistakes to Avoid in Virginia
Apostille FAQ — Virginia
What is an apostille and do I need one in Virginia?
An apostille authenticates a document for international use. If you need to use aVirginia-issued document in another country that's part of the Hague Convention, you need an apostille from the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.
How much does an apostille cost in Virginia?
The Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth charges $10 per document for apostille certification. Our service fee includes all state fees, document review, and handling.
How long does an apostille take in Virginia?
Standard processing takes 3–5 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 Virginia?
Skip the research — let 1Apostille handle your Virginia apostille from start to finish.