Posted by JBarnes_NY on 1/24/06 6:48am
Msg #90552

Apostille - Help w/ procedure

I have a Dr. in Mexico who needs me to get his degree certified w an apostille, has anyone done this nand if so do they know the procedure, she also needs me to do the "legwork" since she is in Mexico, Thanks for any input!!

Reply by Becca_FL on 1/24/06 7:04am
Msg #90554

In Florida, Apostilles need to be obtained by the document signer and/or custodian via the SOS. Check with the NY SOS for proceedure in your state.

Reply by LawrenceOK on 1/24/06 7:27am
Msg #90560

I get calls quit often for these. If they are In State, I send them to the SOS. If they are Out of Country, I direct them to the American Embassy in their country, as they are also authorized to issue these.

Reply by Agent99_CA on 1/24/06 11:58am
Msg #90659

I've done a couple of Apostilles in California. I sent the original document(s) to the Secretary of State, along with a cover letter requesting attachment of an Apostille and stating country where the document will be used, included a self addressed stamped envelope for return of the document to me and a check for the fee (in CA it is $20.00). If the person making the request from you wants you to do the "leg work" make sure the document is returned to you then send it on to her.

Reply by Gerry_VT on 1/24/06 4:03pm
Msg #90749

A person who is about to rely on a copy of a diploma, and who
understands the amount of degree fraud that is going on,
and knows what a notary public is, and knows what an apostille is,
would insist on a procedure very similar to this:

1. The degree holder contacts the school and requests a certified, notarized copy
of the diploma, or equivalent. (My alma matter, USC, does not issue copies of degrees
but does offer "verifications".)
2. The registrar of the university (or other authorized employee) fills out the diploma
or equivalent.
3. A notary at the university meets with the registrar and the registrar swears to the
correctness of the copy, or acknowledges his/her signature on the copy.
4. The notary fills out a jurat or acknowledgement.
5. Anybody, such as the registrar, the degree holder, the person who ultimately receives the copy
brings or sends the copy and the acknowledgement/jurat to the appropriate state or county
office to begin the apostile process.

There really is no reasonable place in the process for a notary who is not
affiliated with the university. If anybody tried to insert me into the process
I would become quite suspicious.