The issuing organization has closed — can I still get an apostille?

It depends on the situation. A notary can sometimes certify that a copy matches an original in your possession. Contact us before ordering and we'll assess what's possible.

How long does it take?

Processing time varies by state and destination. We provide an estimate when you order.

My certificate is already laminated — does that affect notarization?

Laminated originals can sometimes complicate notarization. We'll advise on the best approach, which may involve working with a high-quality photocopy.

Can I apostille multiple certificates in one order?

Yes. We handle multiple documents in a single engagement and can often batch them for the Secretary of State submission.

Personal document

Certificate & Award apostille

Professional certificates, training completion certificates, and formal awards from accredited bodies often need to be authenticated when presented to foreign employers, licensing authorities, or government agencies. Whether you've earned a professional certification, completed a specialized training program, or received an institutional award, an apostille makes that achievement verifiable to parties in other countries.

Order this document online →Ask a question

What is a Certificate or Award apostille?

Certificates and awards issued by professional organizations, training providers, or institutions are private documents. To apostille them, the document (or a certified copy) is notarized, and the notary's seal is then authenticated by the Secretary of State of the relevant state. The apostille certifies the official standing of the notary, which supports the document's legitimacy in the eyes of foreign authorities.

When you need one

Apostilled certificates are commonly required when a foreign employer needs to verify professional qualifications or specialized training, when a foreign licensing board requires proof of a domestic certification (for example, in healthcare, aviation, or finance), when applying for a work visa in a field where credentials are regulated, or when participating in international academic or professional exchange programs.

How Laurela handles it

We review the certificate's issuing body and determine whether a direct notarization or an additional certification step is needed. We then route the notarized document to the Secretary of State for apostille. For destinations outside the Hague Convention, we arrange the necessary consular legalization. Certified translations are available when required.

Apostille vs. embassy legalization

Countries that are Hague Convention members accept the state-issued apostille as sufficient authentication for a notarized private document. Countries outside the Convention require an additional legalization step through the destination country's embassy or consulate. We confirm which applies to your specific destination.

Frequently asked questions

The issuing organization has closed — can I still get an apostille?: It depends on the situation. A notary can sometimes certify that a copy matches an original in your possession. Contact us before ordering and we'll assess what's possible.
How long does it take?: Processing time varies by state and destination. We provide an estimate when you order.
My certificate is already laminated — does that affect notarization?: Laminated originals can sometimes complicate notarization. We'll advise on the best approach, which may involve working with a high-quality photocopy.
Can I apostille multiple certificates in one order?: Yes. We handle multiple documents in a single engagement and can often batch them for the Secretary of State submission.

This page explains a general process and is not legal advice. Requirements vary by issuing authority and destination country; we confirm the specifics for your order. Verified 2026-06-20.