TL;DR - Need to send notarized documents overseas? You may need an apostille—an official certification that makes your paperwork valid abroad. In Indiana, apostilles are issued by the Secretary of State after documents are notarized. Mobile Notary Indy ensures your documents are properly notarized and ready for submission.
If you have ever had to send important documents such as a birth certificate or marriage license or notarized power of attorney abroad, you may have been told you needed to get an apostille. If you aren’t familiar with that word, you aren’t alone. We are here to explain this in plain terms and describe the process in Indiana.
An apostille (pronounced ah-pos-TEEL) is a type of authentication used to verify the legitimacy of a document for international use. Think of it like an international stamp of approval that says, “Yes, this document is official and recognized by the government.”
Apostilles are strictly for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, which is a treaty to streamline the legalization of documents between countries.
You may need an apostille if you're:
The apostille verifies the genuineness of the signature, seal or stamp on the document.
“At Mobile Notary Indy, we specialize in helping clients notarize documents quickly and accurately, ensuring they meet the requirements for apostille submission. From Carmel to Zionsville, our on-the-go notary services eliminate guesswork and save time.”
– Laina Molaski, Mobile Notary Indy
Apostilles are issued by the Indiana Secretary of State—not a notary. However, many of the documents that require an apostille must first be notarized properly. That’s where a mobile notary like me can help.
Here’s a basic breakdown of the process:
While I don't provide Apostilles myself, I do provide professional notarization services. These are typically required first in the Apostille process. I'll ensure your documents are properly notarized and make sure they conform to the requirements of Indiana, so you aren't delayed when you submit them to the Secretary of State.
Not sure which documents need to be notarized for apostille ? Just a call/text away.. and I go to you.
Though apostilles can seem complicated, they can be relatively easy to obtain with the right guidance. So, whether you’re getting ready for a wedding in Italy or seeking adoption in Colombia, putting your documents in the proper channels is possible after taking one simple step: getting it notarized.
If you are local to Carmel, Westfield, Fishers, Noblesville or Zionsville and in need of assistance, I am here to make the process easy and hassle free.
A: An apostille verifies the authenticity of a document so it can be legally recognized in foreign countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
A: No, only the Indiana Secretary of State can issue an apostille. However, many documents must first be notarized by a certified notary.
A: No, only documents being sent internationally to countries in the Hague Convention typically require an apostille.
A: Common documents include powers of attorney, school records, affidavits, and business contracts.
A: No, we don’t submit apostille applications, but we ensure your documents are notarized correctly to avoid delays in the apostille process.
Laina Molaski is a certified mobile notary and experienced loan signing agent serving Central Indiana with years of hands-on expertise in notarized document services. She holds a Ph.D. in Business, an M.B.A., and an M.A. in Creative Writing — credentials that reflect both her academic depth and creative drive. Laina was inspired to enter the field after struggling to find a notary for her house-bound father — an experience that shaped her commitment to making notary services more accessible. Laina is also a university professor, published author of cozy mysteries and small-town romance, and founder of an independent publishing press. Known for her professionalism and warm approach, she brings clarity and care to every signing. Connect with Laina on LinkedIn
