Whether an Apostille is placed on an original document or a copy depends on the type of document and the specific requirements of the authority issuing the Apostille. Here are some general guidelines:
- Original Documents: Typically, Apostilles are affixed to original documents. These include birth certificates, marriage certificates, court orders, criminal record checks, and other official records. The authority providing the Apostille will verify the authenticity of the original document’s signature, seal, or stamp before issuing the Apostille.
- Notarised/Certified Copies: In some cases, an Apostille can be affixed to a solicitor certified copy of a document. This is common for documents where the original should not be altered or is impractical to submit, such as a passport, driver’s license, or certain business documents. A notary public or solicitor will make a photocopy of the original document and certify that the copy is true and accurate. The Apostille is then placed on the certified copy.
- Educational Documents: For academic documents like diplomas or transcripts, the process can vary. Some authorities require the original document to be apostilled, while others accept a certified copy.
- Documents Requiring Certification: Certain documents may need to be certified before an Apostille can be issued. For example, corporate documents might need a certificate from Companies House or a similar authority, certifying the authenticity of the document or the authority of the signatory.
- Country-Specific Requirements: The requirement for an original or a copy can also depend on the destination country’s regulations. Some countries might specifically require an Apostille on the original document, while others accept an Apostille on a certified copy.
- Legal Documents: Legal documents, such as powers of attorney, affidavits, and statutory declarations, typically require an Apostille on the original document signed in the presence of a notary.
- Consulting with Authorities: It is always advisable to check with the authority issuing the Apostille in your country, as well as the authority or entity in the destination country that will be receiving the document. They can provide specific guidance on whether an original or a copy is necessary in your case.
In summary, whether an Apostille is placed on an original document or a certified/notarised copy depends on the nature of the document, the requirements of the issuing authority, and the legal requirements of the country where the document will be used.
