Tell us where the documents are going
We start by learning what documents you have, where they will be used, and whether you have written instructions from the receiving attorney, agency, school, business, or government office.
International Document Authentication
Alabama Apostille Services
Professional apostille facilitation for documents destined for use around the world.
From notarization through authentication, we simplify the process so you can move forward with confidence.
What an apostille does
International paperwork, handled with care.
An apostille is a form of authentication used when certain public or notarized documents will be presented in another country participating in the Hague Apostille Convention.
Pretty in Ink provides apostille facilitation for eligible Alabama documents.
Documents commonly submitted
Support for personal, legal, educational, and business documents.
Powers of Attorney
Affidavits
Name Change Documents
Adoption Documents
Marriage and Divorce Records
Birth and Death Certificates
School and University Records
Business Documents
Court Documents
Statements and Authorizations
Certified Copies
Other notarized or public documents
Document requirements vary based on the document type, issuing state, destination country, and receiving organization.
How the process works
Clear steps for Alabama document apostille requests.
We review the submission requirements
We check the documents for common issues involving notarization, certification, originals, translations, and submission preparation.
We coordinate the apostille submission
We prepare and submit the documents to the appropriate Alabama authentication office using the service level selected by the client.
We return the completed documents
Once processed, the apostille and original documents are returned using the agreed delivery or shipping method.
Translations and foreign-language documents
Foreign-Language Documents and Translations
Some documents may require an English translation before they can be submitted for authentication. In certain cases, a translator may also need to complete a signed and notarized certification or affidavit.
Translation and apostille requirements vary. Clients should provide any written instructions received from the foreign attorney, government office, school, business, or other receiving organization.
Pretty in Ink may coordinate document support but does not certify the accuracy of a translation unless a qualified translator separately provides that certification.
Apostille questions
Helpful answers before you send a document abroad.
Do you send the original document?
In most cases, the original notarized or certified document must be submitted so the apostille can be attached. We can make or retain an administrative copy when appropriate and authorized.
How long does the process take?
We strive to begin your apostille request the same business day whenever possible. Once your documents are submitted, the Alabama Secretary of State typically completes processing within 7–14 business days. While government processing times are outside of our control, we’ll keep you informed throughout the process and notify you as soon as your documents are ready.
Can one apostille cover several documents?
Usually, each separately notarized or certified document requires its own apostille. Documents attached as one properly executed package may be treated differently depending on how they were prepared.
Do translations need a separate apostille?
Sometimes. A translation itself cannot usually be apostilled unless it includes an eligible notarized certification or translator affidavit. Requirements depend on how the translation was prepared and what the receiving party requires.
Can you tell me what my attorney in another country requires?
We can help organize the instructions and identify common apostille requirements, but the receiving attorney, agency, or institution should confirm exactly which documents and certifications they require.
Can you help with documents issued outside Alabama?
Yes, depending on the document. The correct apostille authority is generally based on where the document was issued or notarized. We may coordinate multi-state or federal apostille support when available.
Pretty in Ink Professional Services is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Apostille and authentication requirements vary by document, issuing authority, destination country, and receiving organization. Clients are responsible for confirming the receiving party’s final requirements. Government processing times and acceptance decisions are outside of Pretty in Ink’s control.
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
Send us the documents you have, the country where they will be used, and any instructions provided by the receiving party.
We’ll help organize the next step.